Coordination Intern – Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) on Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE)

Location: Remote

Salary: R5000

Closing Date: 10 Dec 24

Position: Coordination Intern – Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) on Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE)
Location: Remote
Reports to: Regional RMEL Coordinator and SRHR Specialist
Contract Length: 12 months
Start date: 1 February 2025
Type of Employment: Full-time, Internship
Stipend: R5000

The Coordination Intern will assist in the coordination and implementation of the Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) on Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) across Malawi, Uganda, and Ethiopia. The intern will support the planning, coordination and logistics aspects of the project, ensuring that the youth-led research is carried out effectively. The intern will work closely with the Regional RMEL Coordinator, supported by the SRHR Specialist, Regional SRHR Coordinator, and Regional SRHR Senior Trainer. The intern will liaise with local partners, and stakeholders to ensure successful delivery of project objectives. Key functions include research administration, communication and event coordination.

Key Responsibilities

Project Coordination & Support

  • Assist in planning and coordinating YPAR activities, including youth recruitment, training workshops, and field data collection.
  • Maintain regular communication with youth researchers in Malawi, Uganda, and Ethiopia to ensure the timely execution of tasks and reporting.
  • Ensure that all activities are conducted according to ethical guidelines, safeguarding the welfare of all participants.
  • Attend research meetings as required for project staff.
  • Support the monitoring of data storage, ensuring it is properly cataloged and accessible for analysis.

Dissemination

  • Assist youth researchers and partners in organizing the dissemination of research findings in Malawi, Uganda, and Ethiopia and coordinate media outreach.
  • Support youth researchers in preparing presentations, reports, and policy briefs to communicate research findings to stakeholders and policymakers.
  • Support the preparation of information, education, and communication (IEC) materials for youth advocacy efforts.

Reporting & Communication

  • Maintain comprehensive records of project activities, including meeting notes, field reports, and updates from youth researchers.
  • Provide administrative support to the project team and ensure smooth communication between all project participants.

Capacity Building

  • Assist in facilitating capacity-building workshops for youth researchers.
  • Provide youth researchers with ongoing logistical support.
  • Assist with designing, developing, and distributing materials on the study.
  • Organize virtual and in-person meetings for youth participants, stakeholders, and facilitators, including scheduling and preparing necessary documentation.

Key Performance Areas

  • Support coordination of YPAR activities across three countries.
  • Ensure timely and accurate data collection and reporting.
  • Provide effective logistical and administrative support for workshops, trainings, and events.
  • Assist in preparing advocacy materials and reports for dissemination.

Educational Requirements

  • Currently enrolled in or a recent graduate of a bachelor’s degree in social sciences, public health, international development, or a related field.
  • Familiarity with SRHR, CSE, or youth development issues in sub-Saharan Africa is highly desirable.
  • Demonstrated experience in program planning and organizing.

Skills and Competencies

  • Excellent organizational and planning skills with attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in multicultural teams.
  • Strong administrative and logistical skills
  • Excellent communication – verbal & written skills
  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
  • Ability to work under pressure.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and virtual collaboration tools (Zoom, Google Meet).
  • Strong writing and reporting skills.
  • Basic understanding of research methodologies (surveys, interviews, focus groups) and data collection processes.
  • Willingness to travel and engage with communities in Malawi, Uganda, and Ethiopia.

Experience

  • Prior experience working in project coordination or research assistance is an asset.
  • Experience in youth engagement or working with community-based organizations is highly desirable.
  • Familiarity with SRHR programs, especially CSE, in sub-Saharan Africa is an advantage.

Personal Qualities

  • Proactive, innovative and eager to learn.
  • Passionate about youth-led initiatives, SRHR, and gender equality.
  • Flexible and adaptable, able to work in a multi-cultural team.

Key Relationships

  • SRHR Specialist
  • Regional RMEL Coordinator
  • Regional SRHR Coordinator
  • Regional SRHR Senior Trainer
  • Research Intern
  • Youth Researchers in Malawi, Uganda, and Ethiopia
  • Local Partners and Stakeholders

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and CV detailing their qualifications and experience. Applications should be sent to [email protected] by 10 December 2024