For young professionals and recent graduates passionate about climate action, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) offers a remarkable opportunity to gain hands-on experience at the heart of international development work. The Project Assistant Internship with UNDP Ghana, based in Accra, is a six-month, full-time placement under the Environment and Climate Cluster, focusing on Disaster Risk Reduction and Recovery.
This internship is designed to nurture emerging talent while contributing directly to Ghana’s sustainable development agenda. It is especially suited for graduates who aspire to build a long-term career within the UN system or related international development organizations.
About UNDP: Driving Sustainable Development Worldwide
Established in 1965, the United Nations Development Programme is the UN’s global development network, working in over 170 countries and territories. UNDP partners with governments, civil society, and the private sector to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and build resilient nations.
UNDP’s work is guided by six Signature Solutions:
- Poverty and inequality
- Governance
- Resilience
- Environment
- Energy
- Gender equality
Through these interconnected areas, UNDP supports countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while ensuring that development efforts truly leave no one behind.
UNDP Ghana and the Environment & Climate Cluster
UNDP Ghana operates in alignment with the Government of Ghana’s national priorities through its Country Programme Document (2023–2027). One of its key pillars is Sustainable, Resilient, and Inclusive Growth and Structural Transformation.
Under this framework, the Environment and Climate Cluster (ECC) plays a pivotal role in:
- Promoting environmental sustainability at national and local levels
- Supporting climate change adaptation and mitigation
- Strengthening disaster risk reduction strategies
- Advancing green, blue, and circular economy initiatives
- Enhancing coordination across sectors and institutions
ECC works closely with national partners such as the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, Environmental Protection Authority, Energy Commission, and Forestry Commission, among others. This internship provides direct exposure to these collaborations and policy processes.
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Internship Overview: Project Assistant – Accra, Ghana
The Project Assistant Internship is offered under UNDP’s Internship Programme and targets recent university graduates, preferably female, who are eager to contribute to environmental and climate-related development initiatives.
Purpose of the Role
The Project Assistant will support the management, coordination, and implementation of selected projects within the Environment and Climate Cluster. Reporting to the Head of Cluster and working closely with Programme and Project Officers, the intern will contribute to both technical and administrative aspects of project delivery.
This role is ideal for candidates who want to strengthen their practical skills in programme management while gaining firsthand experience in the operations of a UN country office.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The internship responsibilities are structured across three main areas:
1. Programme Management Support (15%)
- Assist in the implementation of UNDP’s environment and climate programmes
- Support project monitoring activities and track progress against agreed deliverables
- Review project reports and provide feedback to enhance quality and consistency
2. Administrative Assistance (70%)
- Prepare background materials for project implementation, work plans, and budgets
- Support procurement of goods and services, human resources processes, and payments
- Maintain proper filing of financial and technical documents
- Draft correspondence and take records of meetings
- Assist in organizing workshops, trainings, seminars, and other in-country events
3. Knowledge Building and Management (15%)
- Document lessons learned and best practices from ongoing programmes
- Conduct research, data collection, and data analysis
- Contribute to success stories, articles, and communication materials showcasing UNDP’s achievements
Required Qualifications and Experience
Education
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria at the time of application:
- Be enrolled in a graduate school programme, or
- Be a recent graduate from a Ghanaian university with a Bachelor’s degree in:
- Natural Resource Management
- Social Sciences
- Development Studies
Experience
- Demonstrated experience supporting development projects related to:
- Climate change
- Natural resource management
- Waste, chemicals, and circular economy initiatives
Internship or placement experience with the UN or other international development organizations is considered an asset.
Desired Skills and Competencies
UNDP seeks candidates who demonstrate:
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English
- Strong drafting, reporting, and documentation abilities
- Professionalism and attention to detail
- Cultural sensitivity and ability to work inclusively with diverse stakeholders
- Ability to work effectively in a multicultural and fast-paced environment
- Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, email, and internet tools
- Self-motivation, reliability, and ability to meet tight deadlines
- A clear interest in environmental sustainability, climate change, volunteerism, and the UN system
An online presence reflecting early thought leadership is also desirable.
Institutional Arrangements and Internship Conditions
The intern will report to the Programme Specialist (Team Lead) and collaborate closely with technical experts within the cluster. Interns may receive a stipend, subject to UNDP’s internship stipend policy.
Successful candidates will be required to submit documentation within one week of selection, including:
- Proof of enrollment or graduation
- Letter of recommendation
- Academic transcript
- Passport copy
- Medical certificate and insurance
- Signed UNDP Internship Agreement
UNDP’s Commitment to Diversity and Ethics
UNDP is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Applicants from marginalized or underrepresented backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. The organization maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, and discrimination.
UNDP does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process and actively warns applicants against recruitment scams.
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Why This Internship Matters
This Project Assistant Internship offers far more than administrative exposure. It provides a foundation for a career in international development, access to UNDP’s professional networks, and an opportunity to contribute to real-world solutions for climate resilience and sustainable growth in Ghana and across Africa.
For graduates who envision themselves shaping environmental policy, supporting climate action, or working within the UN system, this role is an excellent stepping stone.
