Background

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) GSSU internship programme offers an outstanding graduate-level student the opportunity to acquire direct exposure to UNDP's work with the objective of deepening his/her knowledge and understanding of UNDP’s goals, principles and activities. It is designed to complement the graduate’s studies with practical experience in various professional aspects. Interns are not financially remunerated by UNDP.

Internship assignment is an opportunity to learn through experience and develop relevant professional and soft skills. It will provide young graduates with a way to meaningfully contribute to sustainable human development results. Under the direct guidance and supervision of the Deputy Chief, the Intern provides the support in carrying out the communication related activities of the GSSU ensuring high quality of work and timely service delivery.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Updates UNDP GSSU social networks, Facebook page and posts via UNDP GSSU account
  • Supports planning and organizing UNDP GSSU communication and outreach activities, including special events, communication campaigns and others;
  • Drafts background information for UNDP GSSU unit when needed;
  • Contributes to the development and production of communications products including publications, promo materials etc.;
  • Drafts information notes and features for local distribution based on material received from UNDP Headquarters;
  • Involves and coordinates online volunteers through corporate online tool;
  • Assist in managing the procurement process of communication materials;
  • Provides other administrative support in various tasks

 

Competencies

Corporate Competencies:

  • Demonstrates keen interest in the work of the UN, and of UNDP in particular.
  • Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability.
  • Capacity to collect, process and analyze complex data and information.

Functional Competencies:

  • Basic knowledge or practical experience in search engine optimization would be an asset;
  • Skills in applying Google webmaster tools or other equivalent online monitoring and analytical tools would be an asset;
  • Ability to effectively communicate with media, diplomatic community and government representatives;
  • Understanding of the UNDP mandate and specifics of its activities;
  • Ability to set priorities and meet deadlines;
  • Strong written and oral communications skills;
  • Experience in working in an international environment;
  • Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude, pro-activity;
  • Strong academic background in communications, public relations, international development or other related field;
  • Knowledge in administering web site through content management system is an asset;
  • Knowledge and ability to write news, press releases, other communication materials as well as drafting background notes and planning effective communication campaigns;
  • Knowledge in working with social media platforms;
  • Knowledge in producing and working with photo (applying processing software);
  • Remains calm, in control and good humored even under pressure.

Required Skills and Experience

In order to be considered eligible for the UNDP GSSU Internship Programme, you would need to meet one of the following requirements:

  • You are currently enrolled in a graduate school programme ) in Journalism, Public Relations, International Relations or related fields (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); or
  • You are currently enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree programme ) in Journalism, Public Relations, International Relations or related fields (minimum Bachelor’s level or equivalent); or
  • You have graduated with a university degree (as defined in (a) and (b) above) (if selected, you must start the internship within one-year of graduation).

IT Skills

  • Computer literate in standard software applications including MS Office. Skills in use of graphic processing software, web content management systems, online monitoring and analytical tools would be an asset;
  • Experience in administering web sites, social network groups or corporate pages, twitter account would be highly appreciated.

Residency

  • Please note that you will have to secure your travel visa and residency status in Malaysia prior to taking up your internship. GSSU is unfortunately unable to offer you support in obtaining these documents.

Conditions of Internship

  • Applicants must complete the online form and upload a recent CV/resume
  • Additional information regarding the UNDP Internship Programme may be obtained at http://www.undp.org/internships;
  • UNDP does not pay for internships. The costs associated with the latter must be borne by the nominating institution, related institution or government, which may provide the required financial assistance to its students; or by the student, who will have to obtain financing for subsistence and make his or her own arrangements for travel, accommodation, etc.

Subsequent Employment

  • The purpose of the Internship Programme is not to lead to further employment with UNDP but to complement an intern’s studies. Therefore, there should be no expectation of employment at the end of an internship.

Shortlisted Applicants will be required to submit prior to the interview the following documents:

  • Official letter from the University confirming enrollment in or completion within 12 months of a graduate-level degree programme
  • Proof of medical insurance valid for the duration of the internship in Malaysia