UNICEF Internship in South Africa to Address Child Health and Nutrition Challenges

At UNICEF South Africa, we stand for every child’s well-being and believe it begins even before birth, ensuring access to quality healthcare for mothers and healthy development into empowered individuals. This journey hinges on access to healthcare, proper nutrition, education, and a safe environment devoid of violence.

Since 1995, South Africa has made significant strides in healthcare reform, extending primary healthcare services to millions who previously lacked access. However, challenges persist, with crucial interventions failing to reach those in need.

South Africa’s battle against HIV is complicated by high rates of malnutrition and obesity. Over a third of children under five suffer from malnutrition or obesity due to food scarcity, irregular feeding patterns, and poor dietary diversity.

How can you contribute?

UNICEF South Africa seeks four interns for a three-month tenure. The internships will be based at the National Department of Health, Food Control Directorate in Pretoria. Interns will engage in briefing sessions with technical managers within the Directorate and other stakeholders as necessary.

Under the guidance of the UNICEF Nutrition Manager, interns will serve as Data Capturers, assisting the Department of Health in capturing and organizing feedback on the R3337 Draft Labelling Regulations. Responsibilities include:

Establishing a database of commentators.
Assessing and incorporating substantive comments into provided templates.
Organizing comments according to the sections of the draft regulations.
Recording questions received from commentators.

Interns must hold a first-level degree or diploma in relevant fields such as Nutrition, Dietetics, Food Sciences, Public Health, Medicine, Law, or International Relations, and possess no more than two years of post-graduate experience. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, excellent English language skills, and South African identification are required. Candidates should not have immediate relatives employed at UNICEF. Proof of medical insurance is mandatory before commencing the internship.

For every child, demonstrate:

UNICEF’s Core Values of Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, Accountability, and Sustainability (CRITAS) guide our actions. Familiarize yourself with Our Values Charter: UNICEF Values.

Skills Required

Building and maintaining partnerships.
Demonstrating self-awareness and ethical awareness.
Drive to achieve results for impact.
Innovating and embracing change.
Managing ambiguity and complexity.
Strategic thinking and action.
Collaborating with others effectively.

UNICEF promotes diversity and inclusion, welcoming candidates regardless of race, ethnicity, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, socio-economic background, or any other characteristic. We offer various benefits, including parental leave and accommodations for persons with disabilities. UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy against misconduct, including sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination. All selected candidates undergo thorough background checks.

UNICEF encourages applications from qualified graduates with disabilities.

Applicants must pass medical clearance and secure a visa facilitated by UNICEF for the duty station. Inoculation requirements, including against Covid-19, may apply. Government employees must resign before joining UNICEF. UNICEF reserves the right to withdraw offers if visa or medical clearance is not obtained within a reasonable period.

Only shortlisted candidates will proceed to the next stage.

Advertised: March 27, 2024, South Africa Standard Time Deadline: April 14, 2024, South Africa Standard Time

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