United Nations Environment Programme Internship 2021

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment.

The Internship is for six (6) months at UNEP Pretoria Office. The Internship is UNPAID and full-time. Interns work five days per week (35 to 40 hours) under the supervision of a staff member in the department or office to which they are assigned.

In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, applicants may be requested to undertake the internship remotely in view of constraints regarding visa issuance, international travel and access to UN premises. Applicants must be willing and prepared to undertake the internship remotely for a part or the entirety of the internship. The work hours during the internship shall be determined based on individual discussion between the intern and the supervisor(s) taking into consideration the minimum requirements of the Organization and the time difference between the hosting office and the location of the intern.

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Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of the Head of the UNEP/Pretoria Office, the intern will:

• Support project management, including backstopping implementation of project activities and monitoring, related to the GEF Biodiversity focal area.
  
• Carry out basic research and surveys.
  
• Assist with organizing workshops and various virtual or face-to-face meetings, and prepare meeting agendas, summaries, minutes and follow up communications as required.
  
• Assist in the development of communication and outreach materials such as stories, social media posts and newsletters highlighting the work and results of UNEP South Africa Office.
  
• Undertake any additional duties and responsibilities that may be assigned by the Head of UNEP South Africa office, and in accordance with the Interns’ interests and experience.

Competencies

Communication: Speaks and write clearly and effectively. Listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and respond appropriately. Asks questions to clarify and exhibits interests in having two-way communication. Tailors language, tone, style and format to match the audience. Demonstrate openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals. Solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others. Places team agenda before personal agenda. Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position. Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

Client orientation: Considers all those to whom services are provided to be “clients” and seeks to see things from clients’ point of view. Establishes and maintains productive partnerships with clients by gaining their trust and respect. Identifies clients’ needs and matches them to appropriate solutions. Monitors ongoing developments inside and outside clients’ environment to keep informed and anticipate problems. Keeps clients informed of progress or setbacks in projects. Meets timeline for delivery of products to client.

Education

Applicants must at the time of application meet one of the following requirements:

a. Be enrolled in a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher);

b. Be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor's level or equivalent);

c. Have graduated with a university degree.

Be computer literate in standard software applications.

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Have demonstrated keen interest in the work of the United Nations and have a personal commitment to the ideals of the Charter;

Have a demonstrated ability to successfully interact with individuals of different cultural backgrounds and beliefs, which include willingness to try and understand and be tolerant of differing opinions and views.

Studies in Communications, Media, Political Science, or Environment related topics preferred.

 

Work Experience

No working experience is required to apply for the United Nations Internship Programme. Your training, education, advance course work or skills should benefit the United Nations during your internship.

 

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the position advertised, fluency in English is required. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is an advantage.

Assessment

Potential candidates will be contacted by hiring manager directly for further consideration.

 

Special Notice

Your application for this internship must include:

1. A Completed application (Personal History Profile) through the UN careers Portal. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. In your Personal History Profile (PHP), be sure to include all past work experiences, IT Skills, and three references.
   
2. Proof of enrollment (click on link to access and attach to your application: http://unon.org/content/internship-programme),
   - List the IT skills and programmes that you are proficient in using, and Explain why you are the best candidate for the internship and what you hope to gain from the internship.
   
3. A certified copy of degree certificate (if you have already graduated).
   

Due to a high volume of applications received, ONLY successful candidates will be contacted.

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In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, applicants may be requested to undertake the internship remotely in view of constraints regarding visa issuance, international travel and access to UN premises. Applicants must be willing and prepared to undertake the internship remotely for a part or the entirety of the internship. The work hours during the internship shall be determined based on individual discussion between the intern and the supervisor(s) taking into consideration the minimum requirements of the Organization and the time difference between the hosting office and the location of the intern