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.
UNDP has been working in India since 1951 in almost all areas of human development. Together with the Government of India and development partners, we have worked towards eradicating poverty, reducing inequalities, strengthening local governance, enhancing community resilience, protecting the environment supporting policy initiatives and institutional reforms, and accelerating sustainable development for all.
With projects and programmes in every state and union territory in India, UNDP works with national and subnationalgovernment, and diverse development actors to deliver people-centric results, particularly for the most vulnerable and marginalized communities. As the integrator for collective action on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)within the UN system, we are committed to supporting the Government of India’s national development vision andpriorities and accelerating the achievement of the SDGs for the people and the planet.
UNDP India’s new Country Programme (2023-2027) builds on our prior work and aims to provide an integrated approach to development solutions in three strategic portfolios:
Strong, accountable and evidence-led institutions for accelerated achievement of the SDGs. Enhanced economic opportunities and social protection to reduce inequality, with a focus on the marginalized. Climate-smart solutions, sustainable ecosystems and resilient development for reduced vulnerability.South-South cooperation, gender equality and social inclusion are promoted across the pillars. The programme is supported by a framework of renewed partnerships and blended finance solutions, strategic innovation and and accelerator labs, and data and digital architecture.
You are invited to join a team of future-smart development professionals to support India in achieving the national and globally agreed goals. As part of the UNDP team, your focus will be to work with diverse stakeholders to findcountry-specific solutions that lead to sustainable development and reach those furthest behind first.Project Background:
The Programme Management and Support Unit (PMSU) at the UNDP India Country Office provides strategic advisory support to senior management, as well as to programme and operations teams. It ensures compliance with corporate policies, rules, and regulations, while aligning the Country Programme with the UNDP Strategic Plan and strengthening oversight capacities.
As a quality assurance function, the PMSU works to enhance programme performance, results-based management, and the effective use of financial resources. It is responsible for developing and mainstreaming practical tools and approaches that support efficient programme planning, implementation, review, monitoring, evaluation, and knowledge management. The Unit also monitors and analyses programme financial resources to ensure effective planning and utilization in line with the Country Office’s priorities.
Duties and ResponsibilitiesApplicants to the UNDP internship programme must at the time of application meet one of application:
Be enrolled in a postgraduate degree programme (such as a master’s programme or higher) in one of the following disciplines: Communications, Media Studies, Library and Information Science, Development Studies, Public Administration or Policy, International Relations, Social Design, or other relevant subjects. Be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree programme (suchas Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in the above field. Have recently graduated with a university degree (as defined in (a) and (b) above) and, if selected, must start the internship within one year of graduation; Be enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program and undertake theinternship as part of this program. Mentorship:Each intern will be paired with a dedicated mentor from their respective team. The mentor will provide professional guidance, help the intern navigate the work environment, offer feedback, and support their overall learning and growth during the internship period.
Learning Opportunities:
Interns will be exposed to a variety of learning experiences related to UNDP’s work. These may include participating in team discussions, attending internal briefings or knowledge-sharing sessions, and accessing online resources. Topics may cover areas such as development programs, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and professional skills relevant to working in a multilateral development environment.
Specific learning opportunities for this internship include:
Hands-on Experience with Knowledge and Information Management Tools: The intern will gain practical, hands-on exposure to systems such as Microsoft SharePoint, a leading enterprise platform for collaboration and document management. The intern will support the design, content structuring, and upgradation of the Country Office’s SharePoint site. Cross-functional Collaboration and Coordination Skills: By working closely with diverse teams including PMSU, ICT, Communications, and Programme Units, the intern will develop skills in stakeholder coordination and internal communications within a complex organizational structure M&E Learning: The intern will support the review of reports, concept notes, and briefs, enhancing their ability to analyse programmatic documents. They will also gain a deeper understanding of results- based management and monitoring and evaluation (M&E) functions within the context of development cooperation. Disclaimer