The achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and other international and national development targets hinges on capacities of individuals, organizations and societies to transform, in order to reach their development objectives. While financial resources, including official development assistance, are vital to success, they are not sufficient to promote human development in a sustainable manner. Without supportive strategies, policies, laws and procedures, well-functioning organizations and educated and skilled people, countries lack the foundation needed to plan, implement and review their national and local development strategies. Capacity development helps to strengthen and sustain this foundation. UNDP defines capacity development as ‘the process through which individuals, organizations and societies obtain, strengthen and maintain the capabilities to set and achieve their own development objectives over time’[1]. It is the ‘how’ of making development work better and is at the heart of UNDP’s mandate and functions.[2]

Capacity development starts from the principle that people are best empowered to realize their full potential when the means of development are sustainable – home-grown, long-term, and generated and managed collectively by those who stand to benefit. It is important to note that capacity development is a long term process with three dimensions- the enabling environment, the organisation and the individual.  To that end, the Capacity Development Unit has formulated a strategy to develop and launch more targeted capacity development interventions, with the aim of contributing overall to increased development effectiveness and the achievement of Jamaica’s national development goals.

[1] Capacity Development: A UNDP Primer,

[2] Capacity Development Practice Note, UNDP 2008                                                                                                            

Under the guidance and supervision of the Programme Analyst, Capacity Development, the Intern will provide support to the Capacity Development Unit in the UNDP Jamaica Country Office in the implementation of the Capacity Development Strategy.  The Capacity Development Intern’s role is to promote the smooth process and coordination of the various aspects involved in the successful implementation of the strategy. This internship will also provide an opportunity for an outstanding university-level student to acquire direct exposure to UNDP's work.

 The intern will carry out the following tasks:

Support the delivery of learning events

• Coordinate capacity development sessions with implementation partners
• Prepare and conduct pre and post tests of learning sessions
• Provide relevant support to facilitators to ensure the incorporation of CBET techniques in learning design, development and delivery

Support the development of learning tools and job aids

• Develop job aids/Just-in-time learning tools including online videos
• Design and develop learning material as required
• Conduct research to inform the learning and development sessions

Support the assessment of learning delivery

• Prepare training reports
• Provide recommendations for improving learning delivery and future capacity development initiativ

Administrative support

• Assist in the preparation, editing and dissemination of correspondences to internal and external clients

Perform any other duties, as required.

At the end of the assignment, the intern will be able to:

• Have a deepened understanding for the learning and development cycle
• Strengthen organizational development event planning and execution
• Network with a wide range of stakeholders

Upon successful completion of the internship, the intern shall receive a certificate of completion from UNDP

Competencies:

• Demonstrates commitment to UNDP’s mission, vision and values;
• Demonstrates integrity by modeling the UN’s values and ethical standards;
• Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of UNDP;
• Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability;
• Treats all people fairly.

Functional Competencies:

• Work prioritization and ability to multitask;
• Ability to maintain a high level of accuracy, confidentiality and integrity;
• Excellent interpersonal skills;
• Shares knowledge and experience;
• Positive, constructive attitude;
• Ability to work and act well under pressure;
• Responds positively to critical feedback and differing points of view;
• Ready to work independently and under tight deadlines;
• Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability;
• Ability to work in a multi-cultural team environment with a positive attitude.

The intern at minimum should:

1. Be enrolled in the final academic year of an undergraduate university degree programme (minimum Bachelor's level or equivalent) specializing in human resource development or related field;
2. Training in adult learning methodology and/or techniques is desirable
3. Experience in learning design, development and delivery of learning interventions for adult learners would be a distinct advantage
4. Have excellent knowledge of MS Office Suite
5. Have relevant experience in preparing multimedia presentations and training materials
6. Fluent in oral and written English.