Applications open for the West Africa Civil Society Institute Next Generation Internship Programme (Funded)

Applications are currently being accepted for the 2024 internship program offered by the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI). WACSI is a regional non-governmental organization that focuses on strengthening the capabilities of civil society organizations in West Africa, with the aim of promoting sustainability and operational and development effectiveness.

The West Africa Civil Society Institute Next Generation Internship Programme (NGIP) was introduced in January 2008 to address the need for structured practical capacity building for young individuals in West Africa. The program is designed to develop the next generation of African scholars and practitioners. It primarily targets young West Africans who are either recent graduates or early career professionals, and who are seeking work experience in WACSI’s core areas of focus. During the six-month internship, participants will actively engage in all of WACSI’s activities, thereby enhancing their knowledge and skills in leadership, program management, and critical development issues in West Africa, among other areas.

WACSI is now looking for interns from the West African sub-region who are interested in deepening their civic awareness and expanding their professional capabilities. Interns will be fully immersed in WACSI’s core areas of work, which include Capacity Development, Policy Influencing and Advocacy, and Knowledge Management.

Eligibility: West Africa Civil Society Institute Next Generation Internship Programme

1. To be eligible for the internship program, applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree in international affairs, political science, public policy, law, development studies, or a related field.
2. Additionally, applicants should demonstrate a genuine interest in civil society and non-profit organization management.

The following skills are also required:

1. – Strong research, writing, and communication skills (both verbal and written)
2. – Proficiency in Microsoft Office and strong internet research abilities
3. – Bilingual skills in either French and English, or English and Portuguese
4. If you meet the requirements and are interested in this valuable opportunity, we encourage you to submit your application.
5. This internship program will provide you with a unique chance to enhance your professional growth and contribute to the development of West Africa.

Must have skills

1. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and strong internet research skills are required for this position.
2. Bilingual skills in either French and English or English and Portuguese are also preferred.

Good to have skills

1. The ideal candidate should possess excellent interpersonal skills and be able to work well under pressure with minimal supervision.
2. They should also be comfortable working in a multi-cultural environment.
3. Being proactive, willing to learn, and taking initiative are highly valued qualities for this role.

Job role and Responsibilities for Interns: West Africa Civil Society Institute Next Generation Internship Programme

1. As an intern, your responsibilities will include supporting in designing and implementing institutional assessment tools, training, and technical support.
2. You will also participate in unit and cross-unit programme/project planning and proposal development.
3. Providing general administrative support for programmes, budget monitoring, tracking, and maintaining a calendar of activities will be part of your duties.
4. Additionally, you will assist with arrangements and organization of various training and technical support activities.
5. You will serve as a liaison between WACSI and resource persons, associates, partners, and beneficiaries. Designing and developing training tools such as toolkits, modules, and other indigenous training resources will also be expected.
6. Researching, writing, and producing briefings and fact sheets on ongoing programmes and projects will be part of your tasks.
7. You will also be responsible for developing and drafting project work plans, reports, concept notes, and other documentation. This may include training and resource materials, presentations, and budget proposals.
8. Conducting desktop research on policy and legislative issues, gathering information, and writing reports for policy meetings will be required.
9. You will also assist in policy meetings and workshop preparation, as well as in the development of policy advocacy training tools.
10. Supporting other administrative tasks and any other duties assigned by the Head of the Unit will also be expected.

Benefits: West Africa Civil Society Institute Next Generation Internship Programme

As a fully funded internship, WACSI will provide interns with a flight to and from their home country, furnished accommodation, lunch during working days, and a monthly stipend.

Note:

1. Applicants with advanced skills in English, French, or Portuguese, along with proficiency in another language, will be given priority. The selected intern will dedicate a significant portion of their internship at the WACSI office in Accra, Ghana.
2. The internship will run from July to December 2024.
3. Interns who are unable to fulfill the entire six-month commitment will be required to reimburse the full cost of the internship package to WACSI.

Application: West Africa Civil Society Institute Next Generation Internship Programme

1. For details and to apply visit the Official Webpage of the WACSI 2024 Next Generation Internship Programme.
2. The application deadline is May 26, 2024.