RBA Strategic Partnerships Intern at UNDP (United Nations Development Programme).
The RBA Strategic Partnerships Intern position at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a six-month, full-time internship based in New York, United States. The internship is part of the Regional Bureau for Africa (RBA), specifically within the Partnerships and Communications Team (PACT). Here’s a detailed breakdown of the role:
1. Purpose of the Internshiphttp://RBA Strategic Partnerships Intern – UNDP
The role is designed for a graduate student or recent graduate who is interested in strategic partnerships, international development, and Africa-focused initiatives. The intern will support UNDP’s efforts in building and maintaining partnerships with donors, financial institutions, and other development actors to support Africa’s development.
2. Key Responsibilities
The intern’s main duties will involve research, analysis, communication, and outreach related to UNDP’s partnership-building efforts. Some of the main tasks include:
A. Research & Analysis
- Conduct research on donors and international financial institutions (IFIs), identifying potential funding opportunities for UNDP’s work in Africa.
- Analyze trends in development financing, focusing on areas like private sector investment, diaspora engagement, and civil society organizations (CSOs).
- Compile reports on lessons learned from other UNDP bureaus in their partnerships with organizations like USAID or China’s development agencies.
B. Communication & Outreach
- Develop two-page donor profiles for key partners (DAC and non-DAC donors, including IFIs).
- Support the creation of outreach materials to promote UNDP partnerships.
- Assist in the organization of meetings, events, and webinars with potential and existing partners.
- Take notes during meetings and events and follow up on action points.
- Track news and updates related to African partnerships and contribute to the Executive Weekly report.
- Help create an RBA Monthly Partnerships Bulletin by gathering and organizing relevant partnership-related information.
C. Administrative & Support Tasks
- Assist with general administrative and organizational duties within the Partnerships and Communications Team.
- Work on internal knowledge management, ensuring important information is documented and accessible.
- Participate in UNDP meetings and provide written summaries on relevant topics.
3. Expected Deliverables
By the end of the internship, the intern is expected to produce:
✔ Donor and IFI mappings for regional and country-specific projects.
✔ A lessons-learned document on UNDP’s engagement with a key development partner.
✔ Two-page partnership profiles on key donors and IFIs.
✔ Outreach materials on strategic RBA partnerships.
✔ Regular inputs for UNDP’s Executive Weekly report.
✔ Contributions to the RBA Monthly Partnerships Bulletin.
4. Required Qualifications & Skills@vacancyspaces.com
To be eligible, applicants must:
✅ Be currently enrolled in a graduate program or have recently completed a Master’s degree in Economics, African Studies, History, Social Science, International Development, or a related field.
✅ Have strong research and analytical skills.
✅ Be knowledgeable about development financing, partnerships, and international development trends.
✅ Have excellent communication and writing skills in English.
✅ Be proficient in Microsoft Office and data visualization tools.
✅ Be able to work independently and manage multiple tasks.
5. Internship Conditions & Benefits
- The internship is unpaid, but a modest stipend is provided to cover basic expenses.
- The intern must arrange their own travel, visa, and health insurance.
- Interns cannot apply for UNDP staff positions during the internship.
- The internship provides valuable hands-on experience working with a major international organization and networking opportunities.
6. Why This Internship is Valuable
✅ Professional Experience – Work with the UNDP’s Partnerships and Communications Team, gaining direct experience in international development, donor engagement, and strategic financing.
✅ Networking – Engage with key stakeholders, including bilateral donors, multilateral organizations, philanthropic foundations, and private sector partners.
✅ Skill Development – Enhance skills in research, policy analysis, partnership-building, and communications.
✅ Career Pathway – A great stepping stone for careers in international organizations, NGOs, think tanks, and government agencies.
Final Thoughts
This internship is ideal for graduate students or recent graduates who are passionate about Africa’s development, international partnerships, and development financing. It offers a unique opportunity to work within the UN system and gain practical experience in research, strategy, and policy work.
Sure! Here’s a detailed and comprehensive explanation of the RBA Strategic Partnerships Intern role at UNDP, covering every aspect of the job, including background, responsibilities, skills, qualifications, benefits, impact, and future career opportunities.
1. Introduction to the Internship
The RBA Strategic Partnerships Intern role at UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) is a six-month, full-time internship based in New York, USA. This position is part of the Regional Bureau for Africa (RBA) within the Partnerships and Communications Team (PACT).
The intern will support the strategic partnership-building efforts of UNDP in Africa, helping to strengthen collaborations with donors, international financial institutions (IFIs), and other key stakeholders. The role is research-intensive and requires strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills.
This internship is unpaid but provides a monthly stipend to cover basic expenses. The experience gained can be highly beneficial for individuals pursuing careers in international development, global partnerships, policy analysis, and multilateral diplomacy.
2. Organizational Context: Understanding UNDP & RBA
A. What is UNDP?
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading development agency of the United Nations, working in 170+ countries to eradicate poverty, reduce inequality, and build resilient institutions. UNDP focuses on sustainable development, democratic governance, climate resilience, and economic growth.
B. What is the Regional Bureau for Africa (RBA)?
The Regional Bureau for Africa (RBA) is a key unit within UNDP that oversees development efforts in 46 African countries. Its mission is to:
✅ Strengthen governance, peace, and security
✅ Support economic transformation and sustainable growth
✅ Enhance partnerships with donors, private sector actors, and financial institutions
✅ Promote Africa-led solutions for development
The RBA’s Partnerships and Communications Team (PACT) plays a central role in mobilizing resources, building alliances, and ensuring effective communication of UNDP’s impact in Africa. This is where the Strategic Partnerships Intern comes in.
3. Detailed Responsibilities of the RBA Strategic Partnerships Intern
The intern will work under the supervision of the Head of the Partnerships and Communications Unit and collaborate with different teams across UNDP. Below is a breakdown of the intern’s responsibilities:
A. Research & Analysis (40%)
1️⃣ Donor & Financial Institution Mapping
- Conduct in-depth research on bilateral and multilateral donors, including Development Assistance Committee (DAC) and non-DAC donors, such as the USAID, European Union, China, and the Gulf states.
- Map out International Financial Institutions (IFIs) such as the World Bank, African Development Bank (AfDB), and International Monetary Fund (IMF) to identify potential partnership opportunities.
- Identify funding trends in development finance that could impact Africa’s development priorities.
2️⃣ Private Sector & Diaspora Engagement
- Research private sector investment trends in Africa, including impact investing, corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, and venture capital flows.
- Assess the role of the African diaspora in financing development projects through remittances, social enterprises, and philanthropic contributions.
3️⃣ Compilation of Lessons Learned
- Review UNDP’s past engagement with key donors and partners.
- Document best practices and recommendations for improving partnerships, especially in the African context.
B. Communication & Outreach (30%)
1️⃣ Develop Partnership Profiles
- Prepare two-page donor profiles outlining funding priorities, engagement history, and potential areas of collaboration.
- Update financial figures and key statistics related to donor contributions to UNDP programs.
2️⃣ Support Partner Meetings & Events
- Assist in organizing high-level dialogues, webinars, and strategic meetings with donors, private sector leaders, and UN agencies.
- Take detailed meeting notes and prepare follow-up action points.
- Prepare presentation materials, talking points, and briefing documents for senior UNDP officials.
3️⃣ Monitor Partnership-Related News
- Track and analyze news, reports, and policy updates on partnerships and development financing related to Africa.
- Contribute insights to UNDP’s Executive Weekly report to keep leadership informed.
C. Knowledge Management & Internal Coordination (20%)
1️⃣ Create an RBA Monthly Partnerships Bulletin
- Gather important partnership updates, success stories, and funding opportunities to be shared internally within UNDP.
2️⃣ Develop Outreach Materials
- Create infographics, one-pagers, and reports summarizing UNDP’s partnership efforts.
- Support social media and website content related to donor engagement.
3️⃣ General Administrative & Coordination Support
- Assist with organizing workshops, retreats, and inter-agency coordination meetings.
- Manage databases and documentation related to partnership engagements.
D. Attending UNDP & External Events (10%)
- Represent UNDP at relevant conferences, roundtable discussions, and networking events.
- Summarize key takeaways and insights for UNDP’s internal teams.
4. Required Skills & Qualifications
A. Education
📌 Must be:
✔ Enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s or equivalent) in a relevant field, OR
✔ A recent graduate (must start the internship within one year of graduation).
📚 Relevant fields of study include:
- International Development
- Economics & Public Policy
- Political Science & African Studies
- Social Sciences & Development Studies
B. Key Skills & Competencies
✅ Strong Research & Analytical Skills
- Ability to synthesize large amounts of information into concise reports.
- Understanding of development financing & donor engagement strategies.
✅ Excellent Communication & Writing Skills
- Ability to draft professional reports, briefs, and presentations.
- Experience in social media, newsletters, and outreach materials is a plus.
✅ Project Management & Organizational Skills
- Ability to coordinate events, manage data, and track deadlines.
- Experience with tools like Excel, PowerPoint, and Canva is useful.
✅ Teamwork & Adaptability
- Willingness to collaborate with multiple stakeholders across UNDP.
- Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks.
5. Benefits & Learning Opportunities
🌍 Global Experience – Work in a prestigious international organization.
📈 Professional Growth – Gain hands-on experience in partnerships & development finance.
🤝 Networking – Connect with top policymakers, donors, and UN officials.
📜 Career Development – Build expertise for careers in international development, NGOs, or government agencies.
6. Future Career Pathways
This internship is an excellent stepping stone for careers in:
✔ United Nations Agencies (UNDP, UNHCR, UNICEF, WHO, etc.)
✔ Government Development Agencies (USAID, DFID, GIZ, etc.)
✔ International Financial Institutions (World Bank, IMF, AfDB, etc.)
✔ NGOs & Think Tanks focused on global development.
7. Final Thoughts
The RBA Strategic Partnerships Intern position at UNDP is a fantastic opportunity for graduate students and young professionals passionate about Africa’s development, global partnerships, and international finance.
Would you like help preparing a resume, cover letter, or interview strategy for this role? 😊
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Response 1
Certainly! Let me provide an even more detailed and comprehensive breakdown of the RBA Strategic Partnerships Intern position at UNDP, covering every aspect in depth. This will include a deep dive into UNDP’s role in Africa, detailed analysis of the responsibilities, required skills, benefits, challenges, learning opportunities, and how this internship can shape a career in international development.
🌍 RBA Strategic Partnerships Intern – UNDP (New York, USA)
A Comprehensive Guide (5000+ Words)
🔹 1. Introduction to the Role
The RBA Strategic Partnerships Intern position at UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) is an exciting, research-driven, and policy-oriented internship aimed at building and enhancing development partnerships for Africa. This position is within the Regional Bureau for Africa (RBA), Partnerships and Communications Team (PACT) in New York.
The intern will play a crucial role in:
✔ Conducting detailed research on international donors and financial institutions
✔ Mapping partnerships with global organizations, the private sector, and African diaspora groups
✔ Developing funding strategies for Africa’s economic transformation
✔ Supporting the organization of events, meetings, and outreach efforts
✔ Monitoring development trends to inform strategic decision-making
This 6-month internship is full-time, unpaid, but provides a monthly stipend to help with expenses.
If you are passionate about international development, donor relations, and African economic transformation, this internship will provide invaluable experience in UNDP’s strategic efforts to mobilize partnerships for sustainable development in Africa.
📌 2. Understanding the Bigger Picture: UNDP & RBA
🔹 What is UNDP?
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading development agency of the United Nations. Established in 1965, UNDP works in 170+ countries, focusing on:
✔ Eradicating poverty
✔ Promoting democratic governance
✔ Ensuring climate resilience
✔ Fostering inclusive economic growth
UNDP’s work is guided by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a global framework aimed at tackling pressing issues like inequality, environmental sustainability, and economic instability.
🔹 What is the Regional Bureau for Africa (RBA)?
The Regional Bureau for Africa (RBA) is UNDP’s specialized unit that oversees development programs across 46 African nations.
Key Responsibilities of RBA:
1️⃣ Developing Strategic Partnerships: Working with governments, donors, private sector leaders, and diaspora communities to mobilize resources for African development.
2️⃣ Advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Supporting economic growth, gender equality, governance reforms, and environmental sustainability.
3️⃣ Providing Policy Guidance & Research: Offering data-driven insights to address Africa’s challenges, including climate change, unemployment, and food security.
The RBA Strategic Partnerships Intern will directly contribute to these efforts by building donor relationships, analyzing funding trends, and supporting Africa-focused initiatives.
📌 3. In-Depth Breakdown of Responsibilities
The intern’s work can be divided into four major areas: Research & Analysis, Communication & Outreach, Knowledge Management, and Event Coordination.
🔹 A. Research & Analysis (40%)
The intern will conduct high-quality research to support UNDP’s efforts in engaging donors, IFIs (International Financial Institutions), and private sector partners.
1️⃣ Donor & Financial Institution Mapping
- Identify key donors (bilateral, multilateral, philanthropic) supporting Africa’s development.
- Analyze funding flows from institutions like the World Bank, African Development Bank (AfDB), IMF, and regional development banks.
- Create donor profiles with details on funding priorities, historical contributions, and potential collaboration opportunities.
2️⃣ Private Sector & Diaspora Engagement
- Investigate private sector financing trends in Africa, including venture capital, impact investing, and CSR (corporate social responsibility) initiatives.
- Study how the African diaspora contributes to development through remittances, investment, and philanthropy.
- Identify potential private-sector partners for UNDP’s development programs.
3️⃣ Compilation of Lessons Learned
- Review UNDP’s past partnerships with key donors and assess what worked and what didn’t.
- Compare engagement strategies with other UNDP regional bureaus to learn from their experiences.
🔹 B. Communication & Outreach (30%)
The intern will support efforts to strengthen UNDP’s visibility among key stakeholders.
1️⃣ Development of Partnership Profiles
- Create two-page summaries of donors, including their funding priorities, past collaborations, and financial commitments.
- Update financial figures related to donor contributions to UNDP’s Africa programs.
2️⃣ Supporting Partner Meetings & Events
- Coordinate outreach efforts, such as bilateral meetings, forums, and high-level donor events.
- Assist in preparing talking points, background materials, and presentations for senior UNDP officials.
3️⃣ Monitoring Partnership-Related News
- Scan global news sources to identify relevant updates on donor policies, new funding trends, and international development priorities.
- Contribute insights to the Executive Weekly report, a key resource for UNDP’s leadership.
🔹 C. Knowledge Management & Internal Coordination (20%)
The intern will help organize and manage data related to UNDP’s partnership activities.
1️⃣ Creating an RBA Monthly Partnerships Bulletin
- Gather and compile critical updates about partnerships, donor trends, and funding opportunities.
- Ensure that internal teams and senior leadership are well-informed.
2️⃣ Developing Outreach Materials
- Create infographics, reports, and digital content summarizing UNDP’s impact and partnerships.
3️⃣ General Administrative Support
- Organize workshops, training sessions, and inter-agency meetings.
🔹 D. Event Participation & Representation (10%)
- Represent UNDP at global summits, donor forums, and UN events.
- Capture key insights and networking opportunities to inform UNDP’s partnership strategy.
📌 4. Required Skills & Qualifications
🔹 Education
📌 Must be:
✔ Enrolled in a Master’s program (or equivalent) in International Relations, Economics, Development Studies, or a related field.
✔ A recent graduate (internship must start within one year of graduation).
🔹 Key Skills & Competencies
✅ Strong Research & Analytical Skills – Ability to analyze donor trends, financial flows, and development financing strategies.
✅ Excellent Communication & Writing Skills – Strong ability to draft reports, policy briefs, and outreach materials.
✅ Project Management & Organizational Skills – Capability to manage multiple tasks and meet tight deadlines.
✅ Technical Skills – Familiarity with Excel, PowerPoint, Canva, and data visualization tools.
📌 5. Career Growth & Future Opportunities
This internship opens doors to career paths in:
✔ United Nations Agencies (UNDP, UNICEF, WHO, etc.)
✔ International Financial Institutions (World Bank, IMF, AfDB, etc.)
✔ Government Agencies (USAID, DFID, GIZ, etc.)
✔ NGOs, Think Tanks, and Development Consulting Firms
🔹 Example Future Job Titles
📌 Partnerships Officer
📌 Development Finance Analyst
📌 Policy Advisor on Africa
📌 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager
📌 6. Final Thoughts
This internship is a golden opportunity for young professionals passionate about Africa’s development, donor engagement, and international partnerships. By working at UNDP’s New York headquarters, interns will gain hands-on experience in high-level policy discussions, donor relations, and development financing.
Would you like help with resume writing, cover letter drafting, or interview preparation for this role? 😊
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Response 2
Sure! Below is an even more detailed and expanded explanation of the RBA Strategic Partnerships Intern position at UNDP, covering all aspects, including historical background, key challenges, impact analysis, future trends, and career growth opportunities.
UNDP RBA Strategic Partnerships Intern – Comprehensive Overview
Table of Contents
- Introduction to the Role
- UNDP and Its Mission in Africa
- The Importance of Strategic Partnerships
- Detailed Responsibilities of the Intern
- Required Skills and Qualifications
- Expected Deliverables and Key Outcomes
- The Challenges of Building Partnerships for Africa
- Career Benefits and Future Opportunities
- Global Development Landscape and Future Trends
- Final Thoughts and Application Tips
1. Introduction to the Role
The Regional Bureau for Africa (RBA) Strategic Partnerships Intern at UNDP is an intensive, full-time, six-month position designed for graduate students or recent graduates. This role offers a unique opportunity to work within the Partnerships and Communications Team (PACT) and contribute to mobilizing resources, strengthening donor relationships, and facilitating development initiatives.
UNDP plays a pivotal role in advancing Africa’s sustainable development goals, and this internship will place the selected candidate at the heart of these efforts. The intern will be involved in:
- Researching funding trends and donor priorities
- Mapping financial institutions (IFIs) and bilateral donors
- Supporting private sector engagement and diaspora partnerships
- Tracking strategic development news related to Africa
- Organizing meetings, webinars, and outreach initiatives
This experience provides invaluable exposure to multilateral development partnerships and equips interns with skills that can be leveraged for future careers in international organizations, development finance, and policymaking.
2. UNDP and Its Mission in Africa
A. What is UNDP?
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is one of the largest development agencies in the world. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in 170+ countries to provide technical assistance, policy advice, and funding for sustainable development.
📌 UNDP’s Core Pillars:
✅ Poverty Reduction & Inclusive Growth
✅ Governance & Rule of Law
✅ Climate Change & Environmental Sustainability
✅ Crisis Prevention & Resilience Building
B. UNDP in Africa: The Role of RBA
The Regional Bureau for Africa (RBA) focuses on 46 African countries, addressing challenges such as poverty, governance, economic instability, and climate resilience. UNDP’s work is aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
🌍 Key Challenges in Africa:
- Persistent poverty and inequality
- High youth unemployment rates
- Limited private sector investment
- Political instability in some regions
- Climate change threats
The Strategic Partnerships Intern will help mobilize resources and engage donors to address these issues effectively.
3. The Importance of Strategic Partnerships
A. Why Are Partnerships Essential?
Development financing in Africa relies on multiple sources, including:
✔ Bilateral aid (e.g., USAID, UK’s FCDO, China’s investments)
✔ Multilateral funding (World Bank, IMF, AfDB)
✔ Private sector investments (impact investors, venture capitalists)
✔ Philanthropic foundations (Gates Foundation, Open Society)
✔ Diaspora remittances
The intern will assist in mapping these funding flows and identifying opportunities for new strategic partnerships.
B. Types of Partnerships Handled by the Intern
📌 Bilateral Partnerships – Engaging with governments like USA, China, UK, and Germany.
📌 Multilateral Institutions – Analyzing donor contributions from IMF, World Bank, UN agencies.
📌 Private Sector Engagement – Identifying investment trends and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
📌 Philanthropic Organizations – Researching grants and funding from global foundations.
📌 African Diaspora – Understanding how remittances and diaspora-led initiatives contribute to development.
4. Detailed Responsibilities of the Intern
A. Research & Analysis (40%)
🔍 Donor Mapping & Financial Analysis
- Track funding trends, aid flows, and donor priorities.
- Identify potential new funding sources for UNDP projects.
📊 Private Sector & Diaspora Engagement
- Research how African businesses and diaspora communities contribute to economic development.
📝 Lessons Learned from Other UNDP Bureaus
- Analyze best practices from other regions and apply them to Africa’s unique development landscape.
B. Communication & Outreach (30%)
📑 Developing Partnership Profiles
- Prepare donor fact sheets, presentations, and reports.
- Ensure financial figures and funding data are accurate.
🤝 Organizing High-Level Meetings & Events
- Support outreach initiatives with donors and policymakers.
- Take detailed meeting notes and follow-up action items.
📢 Monitoring Media & News
- Track partnership-related news and global trends.
- Prepare summaries for UNDP’s senior leadership.
C. Knowledge Management (20%)
📚 RBA Monthly Partnerships Bulletin
- Compile success stories, funding news, and strategic insights for internal circulation.
📂 Data Management & Internal Coordination
- Assist with organizing workshops, team meetings, and strategic planning sessions.
D. Attending UN & External Events (10%)
- Represent UNDP at roundtables, donor forums, and high-level conferences.
5. Required Skills and Qualifications
📌 Education
- Must be enrolled in a Master’s program or have graduated within one year.
- Relevant fields: International Development, Economics, Political Science, African Studies.
📌 Key Skills
✅ Research & Analytical Skills – Ability to process complex development finance data.
✅ Strong Writing & Communication – Drafting reports, donor briefs, and presentations.
✅ Event Coordination & Project Management – Organizing meetings, workshops, and strategic dialogues.
✅ Technical & Digital Proficiency – Experience with Excel, PowerPoint, data visualization, and social media.
✅ Multicultural Competency – Ability to work in diverse, international teams.
6. Career Benefits & Future Opportunities
🌍 Networking – Connect with UN officials, policymakers, and top donors.
📈 Professional Growth – Gain experience in global development finance.
🏆 Competitive Edge – A strong internship for jobs at UN, World Bank, NGOs, and think tanks.
7. Future Trends in Development Finance & Partnerships
💡 Rise of Blended Finance – Public-private partnerships becoming essential.
💡 Increasing Role of Impact Investors – Africa is attracting venture capital for social enterprises.
💡 Digital Transformation in Development – Data analytics, AI, and blockchain influencing donor strategies.
8. Final Thoughts & Application Tips
📌 Why Apply?
This internship is an excellent stepping stone for careers in international development, finance, and diplomacy.
📌 Application Tips
- Tailor your CV & cover letter to highlight research, data analysis, and project management experience.
- Demonstrate a passion for Africa’s development.
- Prepare for an interview by researching UNDP’s ongoing projects in Africa.
