Background Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are core principles at UNDP: we value diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate, we foster inclusion as a way of ensuring all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, and we ensure equity and fairness in all our actions. Taking a ‘leave no one behind’ approach to our diversity efforts means increasing representation of underserved populations. People who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Learn more about working at UNDP including our values and inspiring stories. UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks. Job Purpose and Organizational Context
The UNDP’s Regional Service Centre for Africa RSCA implements a continent-wide Regional Programme supporting Africa’s transformational agenda in the following priority areas, namely:
The Regional Programme provides dedicated support to the African Union member States and regional institutions to ensure, inter alia, that regional growth and a using a ‘regional lens’ that promotes a coordinated approach and coherence between regional and national level interventions that align to regional frameworks and policies across Africa.
Objective:
As African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) State Parties start trading under the AfCFTA, UNDP and its partners continue to provide support to national and regional institutions through its AfCFTA support programmes. Dedicated actions are deployed to support, at national, regional, and continental levels, strengthening the capacities of women and youth-owned micro, small and medium sized enterprises (MSMEs) to maximise opportunities arising from the free trade area. Against this background, the RSCA is currently looking to recruit an Intern to support the work under the regional AfCFTA programme. Duties and Responsibilities
Under the supervision of the Regional Advisor – AfCFTA and direct guidance of the Regional Analyst, the intern will undertake the following tasks:
Assist in implementing the UNDP AfCFTA Project through supporting preparation of knowledge products and regional value chain analyses. Duties include data collection and analysis. Support the team organize capacity building activities for youth and women led MSMEs on trade and investments issues Help organize trade forums and meetings within the AfCFTA framework. Analyze data and relevant information on AfCFTA and support policy advisory services on trade in goods, services, and digital trade. Respond to Ad hoc requests in the areas of Economic and trade integration Other tasks for all the Associates require attending team meetings and supporting administrative processes. CompetenciesTechnical Competencies
Good analytical skills in gathering and consolidating data and research for practical implementation. Outgoing and initiative-taking person with a goal-oriented mindset. Communicates effectively when working in teams and independently. Good in organizing and structuring various tasks and responsibilities. Excellent computer skill (Microsoft Office and software applications).Other competencies and attitudes:
Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality, and age sensitivity and adaptability. Excellent interactive and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work in a multicultural environment and beliefs/backgrounds. Respond positively to feedback and differing points of view.Learning Objectives
Interest and motivation in working in the work of the United Nations and having a personal commitment to the ideals of the Charter in an international organization. Increased understanding of UNDP’s work and the UN system. Improved knowledge and skills in African Continental Free Trade Area. Improved knowledge and understanding of administrative and operational rules, policies, and regulations of UNDP. Build and develop professional relationships with UNDP colleagues and colleagues from other UN agencies. Work as a team member in a multicultural setting Required Skills and Experience Education: Applicants must be enrolled (or have recently graduated from) in a postgraduate degree programme (such as a master’s programme, or higher) Or have recently graduated with a first-level university degree related to Economics, Management, Business Administration, International Relations/Development, or other relevant fields and must start the internship within one-year of graduation. Experience: Applicants to the UN Internship Programme are not required to have professional work experience. However, a field of study that is closely related to the type of internship that you are applying for is required. Interest in working on African Continental Free Trade Area issues. Ability to work for consecutive 6 months.Languages
Fluency in oral and written English is required. Knowledge of French is an asset.
Application Instruction
The following documents shall be required from the applicants:
Updated CV and cover letter (in English)* Qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply!
* Please note that you will have to provide educational credentials at a later stage.
Disclaimer Important information for US Permanent Residents ('Green Card' holders)
Under US immigration law, acceptance of a staff position with UNDP, an international organization, may have significant implications for US Permanent Residents. UNDP advises applicants for all professional level posts that they must relinquish their US Permanent Resident status and accept a G-4 visa, or have submitted a valid application for US citizenship prior to commencement of employment.
UNDP is not in a position to provide advice or assistance on applying for US citizenship and therefore applicants are advised to seek the advice of competent immigration lawyers regarding any applications.
Applicant information about UNDP rosters
Note: 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.
Non-discrimination
UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, sexual harassment, and abuse of authority. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles.
UNDP is an equal opportunity and inclusive employer that does not discriminate based on race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status.
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