Background

The UNDP country office in South Africa supports the government of South Africa in achieving its development goals outlined in the National Development Plan 2030 as well as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The UNDP country office’s activities are guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2013-2020), the UNDP Strategic Plan (2018-2021), and the UNDP South Africa Country Programme Document (2013-2020). UNDP’s country programmes seek to contribute to South Africa’s social and economic transformational aspirations from policy support to implementation. UNDP brings knowledge of global best practices to South Africa through flagship knowledge reports including the Human Development Reports. 

Under the guidance and the direct supervision of the Head, Inclusive Growth (Program Manager), the Policy Associate will support in the analysis of macro-economic policies and trends and their relevant linkages to UNDP programs. S/he will provide support significantly to the analysis and formulation of strategies and economic briefings to Senior Management. Under the direct supervision of the Head, Inclusive Growth (Program Manager), the Policy Associate will work with UNDP colleagues and counterparts to identify alternative macro-economic policy options to enhance the policy impact of UNDP projects and programs.

Duties and Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of Programme Manager: Inclusive Growth the intern will undertake the following tasks:

  • Regular tracking, assemblage and analysis of socio-economic data relevant to the execution of the UNDP’s mandate of supporting the Government of South Africa.
  • Periodic analysis of economic and social development issues that contribute to the promotion of inclusive and sustainable economic growth and as well as social development in South Africa.
  • Analysis of the country’s macro-economic policies and their impact on poverty reduction, economic growth, social development, equity, and collective prosperity, among others.
  • Develop concept notes and draft business proposals.
  • Assistance in drafting and preparing official documents.
  • Attending and summarizing conferences and meetings.
  • Document and internet research.

Expected Outputs/outcomes:

  • Improved Expedite project implementation systematically through discussions and correspondences as well as field visits and analysis of periodic project progress reports.
  • Information and knowledge management including dissemination to project stakeholders and organizing relevant dialogue sessions.
  • Capturing and synthesis of best practices and lessons learned directly linked to programme goals.
  • Participate in meetings and ensure that plans, activities and resources are optimally coordinated with all partners and relevant programmes/projects.
  • Draft terms of reference as directed and for final review by the programme manager.

Competencies

Skills and Competency Requirements:

  • Above average understanding and knowledge of public policy issues in a developing country context
  • Ability to make new and useful ideas work
  • Ability to listen, adapt, persuade and transform in a culturally diverse environment
  • Ability and evidence to get things done
  • Ability to efficiently handle and share information and knowledge
  • Communication: Ability to draft clearly and concisely, good written and oral language skills.
  • Teamwork: Good interpersonal skills, ability to work collaboratively with colleagues from different national and cultural backgrounds to achieve organizational goals.

Required Skills and Experience

Required Degree Level:

  • Bachelor's degree preferably in Economics, Development, Public Administration, or other related fields

Language:

  • Proficiency in English and working knowledge of at least one local language.

Intern requirements:

  • UNDP interns receive payment of a monthly stipend based on the rate established by the duty station
  • UNDP interns accrue leave at a rate of 1.5 days per month;
  • UNDP accepts no responsibility for costs arising from accidents and/or illness or death incurred during the internship;
  • Interns are not eligible to apply for, or be appointed to, any post in UNDP during the period of the internship;
  • Interns must provide proof of enrolment in a health insurance plan;
  • Interns are not staff members and may not represent UNDP in any official capacity;
  • Interns are expected to work full time but flexibility is allowed for education programmes;
  • Applicants should indicate which months they are available part- and/or full time and when they complete their studies (if still enrolled);
  • Interns need to make own arrangements for travel, VISA, accommodation, etc.