Objectives of the Programme:

UNFPA is implementing a new Strategic Plan 2018-2021 and associated Business Model. The strategic plan reaffirms the relevance of the current strategic direction of UNFPA, the goal of which is universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights, focusing on women, adolescents and youth. In accordance with the strategic direction of UNFPA and in line with General Assembly resolution 70/1 on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the strategic plan will seek to ensure that no one will be left behind and that the furthest behind will be reached first.

This internship will support UNFPA Namibia Country Office to implement innovation initiatives to (a) end unmet demand for family planning; (b) end preventable maternal deaths; (c) end violence and harmful practices against women and girls and (d) end HIV new infection. This will include support in generating innovative plans of UNFPA Namibia Country Office’s programmes to improve sexual reproductive health rights of all Namibians especially adolescent girls and young women.

Under the direct supervision and guidance of innovation focal person and overall guidance of the assistant representative, an intern will assist on the work of the innovation project and activities in Namibia Country Office. A work plan with achievements for the duration of the Internship and learning opportunities will be agreed upon.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

Tasks and responsibilities will include (but are not limited to): 

• Regularly write about UNFPA innovation for internal and external audiences, including for social media, the innovation website, and photography. 
• Conduct environmental scanning and literature reviews to identify emerging innovation trends in the global development landscape. 
• Support the documentation of tested innovation projects and processes at UNFPA. 
• Support the design and organization of country events on innovation, as needed.
• Assist with the administration and coordination of innovation project teams and the innovation inter-divisional working group. 
• Support to the innovation core team in the technical, planning, managerial and administrative coordination of the innovation interventions.
• Other relevant duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience:

Interns should meet the following requirements: 

1. Active enrolment in or completion of a university or similar educational programme in Social Science, Art, Information communication and technology, Web and mobile application, International Development or in any other related fields. 
2. Interest in the field of development especially related to innovative projects.  Written and spoken proficiency in English.  
3. Strong analytical and writing skills. 
4. Proficiency in Microsoft Office software and other related software.  Competence in the delivery of innovative and cost-effective outreach. 
5. Prior experience in the social development sector including non-government organizations, government development agencies and UN agencies, either via assignments or other internships, is an asset. 
6. Ability to adapt to new environments and to establish and maintain good working relations with individuals of different cultural backgrounds. 
7. Integrity: exercising the appropriate discretion when working with confidential and sensitive matters and information

Learning Elements:

Upon completion of the assignment, and depending on its duration, the Intern should:

1. Have an increased understanding of the UN system

2. Understand UNFPA’s general mandate and policies

3. Have learned UNFPA technical language and working procedures

4. Have developed project management skills

5. Understand the purpose behind and dynamics of social innovation

6. Have networked with partners, country and regional offices

7. Be able to work as a team member in a multicultural environment.

Financial Aspects:

Interns do not receive a salary or any other form of remuneration from UNFPA. The costs associated with an intern's participation in the programme must be assumed either by the nominating institution, which may provide the required financial assistance to its students, or by the students themselves, who will have to meet living expenses as well as make their own arrangements for accommodation, travel and other requirements. In addition, applicants must have medical insurance for the duration of the internship. Proof of insurance will need to be submitted before the internship begins.

Duration:

3 months, with possibility for extension up to 6 months

How to Apply:

Interested candidates please submit your resume and cover letter to Ms. Leatishia Vries at recruitments.unfpa@gmail.com mentioning the application for “Internship on Innovation Project.” Only shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview.