For young graduates and university students passionate about development work and eager to gain valuable experience, a new internship opening in Pretoria presents a great chance to grow professionally and contribute to important social causes. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is offering a full-time Administrator and Project Support Internship within their Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) Directorate.
About the Internship Role
This internship is designed for individuals looking to build skills in administration, project support, and stakeholder coordination while working directly under the guidance of the Gender Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) Analyst. The intern will support UNFPA’s efforts to improve the management and effectiveness of the GBVF Directorate, which focuses on fighting gender-based violence and promoting safe reproductive health.
What the Intern Will Do
- Manage and update important data in the GBVF Information Repository, ensuring reports and resources from partners like civil society groups, government departments, and research institutions are properly collected and catalogued.
- Maintain a stakeholder database, keeping contact information and details up to date, and helping coordinate communication with key partners contributing to the National Strategic Plan on GBVF.
- Assist with meetings and events by scheduling, preparing agendas, taking minutes, and following up on action points to keep projects on track.
- Track project progress and conduct online research about GBVF activities in South Africa, gathering useful information to share with the team.
This is a hands-on role where the intern will learn to work in a professional environment that values teamwork, accuracy, and meaningful impact.
Who Should Apply?
The internship is open to:
- University students who have completed at least one academic year of a bachelor’s degree,
- Postgraduate students currently enrolled in master’s or higher degree programmes,
- Recent graduates who have finished their degree within the past year, or
- Those enrolled in postgraduate professional trainee programmes as part of their studies.
Candidates must have:
- A strong interest in development work and gender-related issues,
- Good English communication skills (written and spoken),
- The ability to adapt to new environments and work well with diverse teams,
- Some prior experience working or volunteering with development organizations is an advantage,
- Strong analytical and writing abilities.
What Will You Gain?
Interns at UNFPA do more than just assist—they learn. By the end of the internship, participants can expect to:
- Deepen their understanding of UNFPA’s mandate and global development goals,
- Get acquainted with how UNFPA designs and delivers programmes, especially in sexual and reproductive health and gender-based violence prevention,
- Experience the working culture of a large international organization, including technical language and coordination practices,
- Develop valuable writing and documentation skills,
- Build a professional network within the UN and partner organizations,
- Work collaboratively in a multicultural setting that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion.
About UNFPA
UNFPA is the lead UN agency focused on ensuring every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person can fulfill their potential. Their strategic plan aims to end preventable maternal deaths, eliminate unmet family planning needs, and stop gender-based violence and harmful practices. The internship aligns closely with these transformative goals, making it a unique chance to contribute to real change in South Africa.
Work Environment and Equal Opportunities
UNFPA values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that respects gender equality and cultural differences. Women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, minority ethnic groups, and other underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged to apply. UNFPA promotes equal opportunities in hiring, training, and career advancement.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply before 29 May 2025. The internship is based in Pretoria and is a full-time position. Note that UNFPA does not charge any fees for applications or recruitment.
This Administrator and Project Support Internship with UNFPA in Pretoria is an exceptional opportunity for young South Africans eager to build their careers in development and make a meaningful difference in their communities.
Beyond gaining valuable work experience, interns will contribute to important efforts to end gender-based violence and promote safe reproductive health—a cause that impacts millions across the country.
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