United Nations Population Fund invites suitably qualified graduates and students to apply for the Internship Programme 2026.
Internship Application Closing Date: 30 May 2026
Internship Location: Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
About the UNFPA Internship Programme
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) South Africa Country Office is offering internship opportunities for graduates and students interested in development work, programme coordination, administration, and youth-focused initiatives.
The internship programme provides practical experience within one of the leading United Nations agencies focused on reproductive health, gender equality, HIV prevention, and youth empowerment.
Available Internship Opportunities
Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights, HIV, Gender and Adolescent & Youth Internships (X2)
Successful interns will support:
- Programme planning and coordination
- Stakeholder meetings and forums
- Capacity-building workshops and training
- Communication and reporting activities
- Monitoring programme implementation
- Internal communication support
Operations and Administration Internship (X1)
Successful interns will support:
- VAT management and recoveries
- Budget monitoring and expenditure analysis
- Annual Work Plan preparation
- Financial reporting
- Administrative payment processes
- Finance coordination and follow-ups
Internship Duration
- 6 Months
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree programme and have completed at least one academic year
OR
- Be enrolled in a postgraduate degree programme
OR
- Have recently graduated and start the internship within one year of graduation
Applicants must also:
- Demonstrate interest in development work
- Have strong communication and analytical skills
- Be proficient in English
- Be able to work in multicultural environments
Required Qualification
- Bachelor’s Degree
Skills and Competencies
UNFPA is looking for candidates with:
- Strong writing and analytical skills
- Good interpersonal skills
- Initiative and sound judgement
- Ability to adapt to new environments
- Teamwork and communication skills
- Commitment to diversity and inclusion
What Interns Will Gain
Successful interns will gain exposure to:
- UN programme design and implementation
- International development work
- Programme coordination and operations
- UN governance systems
- Technical report writing
- Multicultural teamwork and networking
Financial Information
Interns will receive a stipend to assist with basic daily expenses if they are not already financially supported by another institution or programme.
Please note:
- UNFPA does not provide salaries
- Interns are responsible for accommodation and travel arrangements
- Medical insurance is compulsory for the duration of the internship
Important Notes
UNFPA encourages applications from:
- Women
- Persons with disabilities
- LGBTQIA+ individuals
- Underrepresented groups
UNFPA promotes diversity, inclusion, integrity, and equal opportunities in recruitment.