The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is offering an exciting Programme Support Internship for 2026. This opportunity is designed for passionate students and recent graduates who are interested in gaining practical experience in international development, advocacy, and programme coordination. The internship will be based in Pretoria, South Africa, and successful candidates will work closely with the WBA programme team supporting research, advocacy initiatives, programme implementation, and communication activities. The application deadline is 24 March 2026, so interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Internship Overview
The Programme Support Interns will support the WBA programme team with a range of activities including research, advocacy, programme coordination, and content development. Interns will also assist with events management and help in supporting initiatives such as the International Pride Awards.
This internship offers a valuable opportunity to gain experience in international development work while contributing to meaningful programmes that promote inclusion, equality, and human rights across Africa.
Duties and Responsibilities
Working closely with the WBA Programmes team, the intern will:
- Support the regional team with the implementation of regional programmes and track programme progress and key deliverables.
- Contribute to drafting meeting reports, concept notes, and programme documentation.
- Assist with coordination of meetings, workshops, webinars, and consultation processes.
- Draft meeting minutes and follow-up action points for programme activities.
- Conduct research and monitoring of LGBTI+ inclusion and rights issues in priority and focus countries across Africa.
- Work with the communications team to create programme content, human interest stories, programme briefs, and factsheets.
- Monitor current events and trending topics to identify opportunities for meaningful engagement and visibility for the WBA programme.
- Support knowledge building and dissemination of programme materials developed by the regional team and partners.
- Assist in translation and review of knowledge products where necessary.
- Provide general programme implementation support, including coordinating activities with partners, organizing events, and preparing reports.
Minimum Requirements
Candidates must meet one of the following educational criteria:
- Currently in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree, OR
- Currently enrolled in a Master’s degree programme, OR
- Have graduated within the last year from a Master’s degree or equivalent qualification.
Language Requirements
- Fluency in English is required.
- Knowledge of other UN languages will be considered an advantage.
Skills and Competencies
Successful candidates should demonstrate the following skills:
- Understanding of LGBTI+ issues and challenges facing young key populations in developing countries.
- Ability to conduct research and gather relevant information for programme activities.
- Strong ability to work with diverse partners and build productive relationships.
- Excellent organizational and multitasking skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office / Office 365.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Responsible, responsive, and enthusiastic work attitude.
Location: Pretoria, South Africa
Application Deadline 24 March 2026
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply online through the official United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) recruitment platform before the closing date. Applicants are encouraged to prepare an updated CV and supporting documents when submitting their applications.
Why Apply for the UNDP Internship?
This internship offers graduates and students a unique opportunity to:
- Gain hands-on experience with a United Nations agency.
- Contribute to human rights and inclusion programmes in Africa.
- Build professional networks in international development.
- Develop skills in research, programme coordination, and advocacy.
If you are passionate about international development, human rights, and social inclusion, this internship could be a great step toward building a career with the United Nations system.
