UNEP is developing the South-South Cooperation (SSC) Exchange Mechanism (“the Mechanism”). The Mechanism will be hosted online, and will be one of the first web platforms specifically concentrating on SSC in the field of environment and sustainable development. The Mechanism will document a broad range of case studies and case stories on SSC primary focusing on projects or initiatives being implemented by UNEP and/or its partners (although other prominent SSC case stories with strong environmental linkages will also be featured). The Mechanism will share success stories; best practices; lessons learned and promote events, news and information on SSC. It will generate more public awareness about SSC and provide an interactive platform for blogs, discussions and social networking (that will be moderated by UNEP).

The Exchange Mechanism is a long term project that is being developed through an iterative process of improvements, connection building and expansion of the scope.

Terms of Reference

The Intern will be based in Nairobifor a period of 3-6 months. S/he will correspond closely with the South-South Cooperation Team within UNEP’s Division of Regional Cooperation, and will work directly under the supervision of the head of the UNEP SSC Team.

The intern will support the program of activities described above. The intern’s tasks will include:

1. Identifying, researching and drafting case studies and case stories on SSC that can be featured on the Exchange Mechanism, particularly in the areas of water, agriculture, energy, climate change, biodiversity and related environmental management and sustainable development initiatives;
2. Researching and drafting related SSC content for the Exchange Mechanism about success stories, established best practices, and lessons learned ;
3. Support the head of UNEP SSC Team to develop and sustain SSC networks created, and identify potential new ones;
4. Tracking developments in partner network on relevant news, events and activities that can be featured on the Exchange Mechanism;
5. Regularly reviewing emails that are sent to UNEP’s south-south email address, and drafting responses to requests for information etc., where appropriate; and
6. Supporting the head of the UNEP SSC Team in administrative and event-planning for the formal launch of the Exchange Mechanism in 2012.

This internship is unpaid. All costs associated with participating in the Internship Programme inNairobishall be borne by the intern.

Eligibility Requirements

• Applicants should, at the time of application and throughout their internship, be enrolled in an advanced degree (Masters or above), specializing in the environment, international development or a related discipline.
• Applicants must be able to provide an endorsement letter from their academic institution confirming their enrollment status and clearly identifying their expected graduation date (on an official letterhead or with an official seal).
• Applicants must be available to undertake the internship inNairobifor a minimum of 3 months and no longer than 6 months on a full-time basis.
• UNEP would prefer applicants who are available for up to 6 months. Ideally, applicants should be ready to commence the internship in late November/early December. However, a start date in early January will also be considered.
• Applicants must be proficient in English. Knowledge of any other official language of the United Nations is also an asset;
• Applicants must be computer literate and have a demonstrated ability in using standard Microsoft applications;
• Applicants should have a demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and a personal commitment to the ideals of the United Nations Charter;
• Applicants should have a demonstrated ability to interact with individuals of different cultural and ethnic backgrounds and beliefs, including a willingness to be tolerant to differing opinions and views

Key Competencies for this Internship

Applicants must have a demonstrated competence in the following areas:

1. Strong research, analysis and writing skills;
2. Self-motivation and initiative;
3. Strong inter-personal communication skills.