Background
The UNDP Global Centre for Technology, Innovation and Sustainable Development (GC-TISD) is part of UNDP’s Digital, AI and Innovation (DAI) Hub, which leverages digital, data, and systems innovation to support governments in addressing complex development challenges through more adaptive, inclusive, and forward-looking approaches. The DAI Hub is situated within UNDP’s Bureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS) and is led by the UNDP Chief Digital Officer.
Based in Singapore, the Global Centre draws on the country’s strengths in sustainability policy, technology, and innovation, engaging a broad ecosystem of government agencies, private sector actors, academia, and thought leaders. Through this collaboration, the Centre connects policymakers, practitioners, and experts globally to exchange insights and co-create practical solutions that advance sustainable development.
Established in 2019 as a joint initiative of the Government of Singapore and UNDP, the Centre is now entering its 2025–2028 phase, led by a dedicated team that works closely with UNDP Country Offices and partners worldwide. Its core functions include identifying, co-creating, and scaling innovative and technological solutions that contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
A central thematic focus of the Centre is Climate and Sustainability, addressing interconnected challenges such as climate mitigation and adaptation, circular models, air pollution, and environmental resilience.
Duties and Responsibilities
Learning Objectives
This internship at GC-TISD offers a unique opportunity for the intern to engage in a rich learning experience in various areas. Through this role, the intern will gain in-depth insights and hands-on experience in:
Sustainable Development and Technological Innovation: Understanding the intersection of cutting-edge technologies and sustainable development practices. Policy Development and Strategic Partnerships: Acquiring skills in policy support, strategic partnership development, and engaging with a global network of stakeholdersMultilateralism and Global Collaboration: Learning about the workings of international cooperation and the role of multilateral organizations in addressing global challenges. 1
Research and Thought Leadership
Assist in the analysis of qualitative and quantitative data related to circular economy, decarbonisation policies, and air quality solutions with a focus on developing countries. Actively contribute and co-author written content such as policy briefs, blogs, and reports at the intersection of development, climate and sustainability Collaborate with the UNDP Global Centre team to design a capacity-building program on decarbonisation policies. The program will bring together counterparts and governments from UNDP Country Offices to Singapore to exchange best practices. Contribute to the development of publications that document the outcomes of the Center workplan in its new agreement. 30 % 2Strategic Advocacy and Partnership Development
Assist identifying and engaging with strategic partners in the climate and sustainability sector, in order to understand their interests and explore mutually beneficial partnerships in Singapore, regionally and globally. 20% 3Event Management Support
Assist in conceptualizing, preparing, and organizing events such as webinars, workshops, and trainings, both in-person and online, aligned with the Centre's Climate and Sustainability focus. Support in creating compelling visual materials, including presentations, charts, and infographics, to showcase the Centre's work on climate and sustainability including materials for the World Cities Summit and other flagship events. 30% 4Learning, Development and Networking
Engage in learning and personal development opportunities within UNDP and the broader Singapore ecosystem. Participate in relevant networking events in Singapore linked to the Centre's work. 20%Competencies
Commitment to UNDP Values and Cultural Diversity Exhibits a strong commitment to the values of UNDP, consistently upholding these principles in actions and decisions, in alignment with the UN Code of Conduct. Shows an appreciation for the multicultural nature of the organization and its diverse staff, along with an international outlook that values and learns from cultural diversity. Effective Communication and Writing Ability Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience in writing reports, blogs, and think pieces. Research and Analytical Skills Proven knowledge in conducting research and analysing trends and data. Organizational and Event Management Capabilities Competence in organizing events, managing multiple tasks efficiently, and adapting to changing environments.Required Skills and Experience
Education:
Candidates must meet one of the following educational requirements:
Currently in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree; or Currently enrolled in a Master’s degree; or Have graduated no longer than 1 year ago from a bachelor’s or master’s degree or equivalent studies.Experience:
Deep Commitment to Sustainability Issues: Demonstrates a profound interest in and commitment to addressing climate change and sustainability challenges, particularly in developing countries. Understanding of Global Sustainability Challenges: Exhibits awareness of the pressing environmental issues facing the world today and shows a desire to contribute towards solving these challenges. Knowledge Sharing: Proven experience in sharing knowledge and showcasing results, in writing high-quality communication products and/or organising interactive webinars. Familiarity with International Development: Knowledge or experience in international development and public service delivery is an advantage.IT skills:
Knowledge and a proficient user of Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Teams); Knowledge of (data) visualization and analysis tools (e.g.,Canva, PowerBi, etc) is an advantageLanguage skills:
Fluency in English (both spoken and written) is required. Knowledge of other UN languages is an advantageOther:
Application:
Internship candidates are expected to submit the following documents electronically through the UNDP job portal:
UNDP internship application form: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Sat1-EmXsj6Die7xCgP3-BrLFuLShrV1/view A Curriculum Vitae (CV). Original text of up to 350 words in English addressing the following question: Can you describe a specific example of initiative that you believe has significantly contributed to addressing climate change or sustainability issues, particularly in the context of developing countries? Please elaborate on why you chose this example, its impact, and any insights you gained about this initiative.Note: UNDP internship application form, CV and original text need to be combined in one PDF document for upload.
V. INTERNSHIP CONDITIONS
UNDP will not pay interns for internship but will provide a stipend approximately 859.13 SGD monthly in accordance with the provisions of the UNDP internship policy; all other expenses connected with it will be borne by me or my sponsoring Government or institution; UNDP accepts no responsibility for costs arising from accidents and/or illness or death incurred during the internship; Interns are responsible for obtaining necessary visas and arranging travel to and from the duty station where the internship will be performed; Interns are not eligible to apply for, or be appointed to, any post in UNDP during the period of the internship; Interns must provide proof of enrolment in health insurance plan; Interns are not staff members and may not represent UNDP in any official capacity; Interns are expected to work full time but flexibility is allowed for education programmes; Interns need to obtain financing for subsistence and make own arrangements for internship, travel, VISA, accommodation, etc. Interns must be nationals of the duty station or must have valid residency permit issued by government authorities at the time of their application. UNDP is not in position to support visa application and work permit for the applicantsEqual opportunity
As an equal opportunity employer, UNDP values diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate and, as such, we encourage qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply for roles in the organization. Our employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role, without discrimination.
UNDP is also committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, are valued, can thrive, and benefit from career opportunities that are open to all.
Sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse of authority
UNDP does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority. All selected candidates, therefore, undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles.
Right to select multiple candidates
UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.
Scam alert
UNDP does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process. For further information, please see www.undp.org/scam-alert.