UNDP is recruiting an Intern Inclusive Growth in Pretoria for a six-month internship. Learn about the qualifications, responsibilities, skills and application deadline for this development opportunity.
UNDP Intern Inclusive Growth 2026
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has announced an opportunity for an Intern Inclusive Growth to join its South Africa Country Office in Pretoria. The six-month internship is designed for candidates interested in inclusive economic transformation, sustainable development, employment creation, research, policy and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The position is part of UNDP’s Inclusive Growth practice area and falls under the Regional Bureau for Africa. The internship is office-based and full-time, providing the successful candidate with an opportunity to gain practical exposure to development programming within the United Nations system.
Applications are scheduled to close on 29 August 2026 at 05:59 AM.
About the UNDP Internship
The Intern Inclusive Growth position carries Job Identification 36321 and is based in Pretoria, South Africa. The vacancy was posted on 21 August 2026 and has a contract duration of six months.
UNDP has designed the opportunity for a candidate who can support the planning, implementation, administration, monitoring and knowledge-management activities of its Inclusive Economy and Governance portfolio.
The role is particularly suited to individuals who want to understand how development organisations use research, evidence, stakeholder engagement and policy analysis to address complex socio-economic challenges.
The internship does not require previous professional work experience, making it accessible to graduates and early-career candidates who have the relevant academic background and a strong interest in development.
Supporting Inclusive Economic Transformation
UNDP South Africa works with the Government of South Africa to support national development priorities, including those outlined in the National Development Plan 2030, the Medium-Term Development Plan 2024–2029, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework.
Within this environment, the Inclusive Economy and Governance portfolio focuses on challenges including poverty, unemployment and inequality, while also responding to climate risks, governance constraints, fiscal pressures and the need for inclusive digital and green transitions.
The intern will therefore work within a portfolio covering areas such as economic transformation, productive markets, employment creation, entrepreneurship, digital innovation and institutional strengthening.
Particular attention is also given to micro, small and medium enterprises, township and rural enterprise ecosystems, youth and women’s economic participation, skills development and improved access to opportunities for marginalised groups.
Key Responsibilities
Working under the direct supervision of the Programme Manager, Inclusive Economy and Governance, the intern will be expected to support a broad range of programme activities.
Responsibilities will include assisting with the planning, implementation, administration, monitoring and evaluation of programmes and projects that contribute to the UNDP Country Programme Document 2026–2030.
The intern will also collect and analyse socio-economic data relating to inclusive economic transformation, job creation and sustainable livelihoods in South Africa.
Another important component will involve supporting research and monitoring related to the SDGs, the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework and UNDP country programme priorities.
The successful candidate may also research potential partners and funding opportunities and assist with the preparation of concept notes aligned with the portfolio’s priorities.
Stakeholder engagement will form another part of the role. This can include supporting meetings and events, attending conferences, preparing minutes and helping coordinate activities involving partners and other stakeholders.
The intern will also contribute to communication and knowledge-management products designed to capture programme learning, results and evidence.
Additional responsibilities may include drafting official documents and completing other related assignments required by the team.
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Skills the Internship Will Develop
The internship is intended to provide practical exposure to several areas of professional development.
Among the key learning areas are programme and project management, research and analysis, official writing, SDG advocacy and monitoring, as well as a broader understanding of UNDP’s mandate and contribution to South Africa’s development agenda.
This makes the opportunity potentially valuable for graduates considering careers in international development, public policy, economics, social development, research, programme management or related fields.
Educational Requirements
Applicants must have at least a first degree in economics, development studies, social sciences or another relevant discipline.
An advanced degree is preferred, meaning candidates with postgraduate qualifications may have an additional academic advantage.
Previous work experience is described as an asset but is not a requirement. Instead, the organisation is looking for candidates who are eager, proactive and capable of learning in a dynamic development environment.
Knowledge of inclusive economic transformation and the SDGs is advantageous, while exposure to international development and South Africa’s development context is considered a significant advantage.
Competencies and Technical Skills
Candidates are expected to demonstrate an interest in development issues, including inclusive and sustainable growth, employment promotion, entrepreneurship, MSME development, skills development and digital inclusion.
Strong critical-thinking, analytical and research skills are important for the position. Candidates should also have good organisational and interpersonal abilities.
Excellent written and spoken English is required, together with computer literacy and proficiency in standard applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
The successful candidate should also demonstrate integrity, adaptability and sensitivity when working within diverse and multicultural environments.
Equal Opportunity at UNDP
UNDP states that it is an equal opportunity employer and encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. Employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role.
The organisation also emphasises its commitment to an inclusive workplace in which personnel are empowered to contribute to its mission and benefit from career opportunities.
Candidates should also be aware that UNDP maintains strict standards relating to harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority.
Application Information
The UNDP Intern Inclusive Growth opportunity is based in Pretoria, South Africa, carries a six-month internship contract and requires a bachelor’s degree.
Job ID: 36321
Agency: UNDP
Practice Area: Inclusive Growth
Grade: IN
Vacancy Type: Internship Programme
Location: Pretoria, South Africa
Duration: 6 months
Education: Bachelor’s degree
Language: English
Closing Date: 29 August 2026 at 05:59 AM
Interested candidates should review the full vacancy requirements and submit their applications through the official UNDP recruitment platform before the stated deadline.
UNDP also reminds applicants that it does not charge fees at any stage of its recruitment process. Candidates should be cautious of individuals or websites requesting payment in exchange for recruitment assistance.
For candidates seeking practical exposure to inclusive economic development, policy research and sustainable development, the UNDP Intern Inclusive Growth 2026 opportunity provides a strong entry point into the international development sector while allowing participants to contribute to programmes addressing some of South Africa’s most pressing socio-economic challenges.
Application: Apply for the UNDP Intern Inclusive Growth position
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