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Introduction to the Development Internships at Irish Aid
Applications are now open for the Development Internships at Irish Aid. If you are passionate about international development and eager to make a positive impact on the world then this is your golden opportunity.
Irish Aid, a vital component of Ireland’s foreign policy, offers you a unique opportunity to launch your career in this rewarding field. Irish Aid is currently accepting applications for its prestigious paid Development Internships. These internships provide a remarkable chance to work with the Department of Foreign Affairs and gain practical experience in the government’s international development assistance program. Let’s then dive into the details of these exciting internships.
About the Development Internships at Irish Aid
Irish Aid’s Development Internships are designed to equip successful candidates with the skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience needed to contribute to Ireland’s international development efforts. These internships span 22 months, commencing in early 2024, and are based in either Limerick or Dublin at the Department of Foreign Affairs. Ireland’s foreign policy places a strong emphasis on development cooperation. The country allocates a substantial budget, with €1.23 billion dedicated to Official Development Assistance (ODA) in 2023. This budget reflects Ireland’s dedication to alleviating poverty, and hunger and improving living conditions in some of the world’s most impoverished regions.
What the Development Internship Involves
As a Development Intern, you will work closely with colleagues who provide essential technical support to the Government’s international development assistance program. This role offers a unique opportunity to be part of a highly motivated and skilled team while engaging in a range of disciplines relevant to the aid program’s policy objectives.
Candidates who meet specific citizenship requirements, such as being a citizen of the European Economic Area (EEA), the United Kingdom (UK), or Switzerland, or having the necessary visa or international protection, are considered eligible.
Qualifications and Requirements
To be eligible for these internships, you must meet the following essential qualifications and requirements:
- Possess a second-class honours undergraduate degree in one of the specified areas, such as Development Management, International Relations, Accounting, Agriculture, and many more.
- Demonstrate high-level oral and written communication skills, including excellent applied writing skills.
- Show a strong interest in Ireland’s foreign policy, with knowledge of Irish Aid.
- Exhibit excellent interpersonal skills, initiative, and good judgment.
- Have good administrative, organizational, and computer skills.
- Be flexible and capable of working independently and as part of a team.
While not mandatory, the following qualifications and experiences are considered desirable:
- Knowledge of global development issues and an understanding of the economic, business, trade, and political context in which development interventions are successful.
- An understanding of the complex environment in which the Department of Foreign Affairs and its missions operate.
- Experience working in the developing world.
- Experience working in the area of community development either at a voluntary or professional level.
Role Specification
The role of a Development Intern is dynamic and will evolve according to the demands of the international development assistance program. Your responsibilities may include:
- Providing support in a specific sector or on a thematic issue relevant to the program.
- Contributing to the oversight and monitoring of approved budgets and programs.
- Offering input into briefings, speeches, and reports.
- Collaborating as part of a unit or cross-unit team and with other colleagues across the Department.
- Participating in policy discussions relevant to the Irish Aid program.
- Supporting the Department’s staff in international networks and at international/national meetings.
- Conducting research and data analysis to inform decision-making.
- Supporting public information and communications/outreach work of the Division.
- Undertaking other functions as requested by the head of unit or line manager.
Application Process
To apply for these exciting internships, you should complete the official application form available on the Career Opportunities page of the Department’s website (link below). Make sure to save the online PDF version and open it in a Word document for easier completion. The completed application form should be sent via email to devintern@dfa.ie with the subject line “Development Intern Application.”
Selection Process
Selection for these internships will be based on a competitive interview. In case of a high volume of applications, candidates will be shortlisted based on the information provided in their applications and may be required to complete a written exercise. Interviews will be conducted via video conference.
The selection process for these internships adheres to the Code of Practice for Appointment to Positions in the Civil Service and Public Service. Complaints or requests for review will be considered following the procedures outlined in the Code of Practice.
Conclusion
Please note that the closing date for completed applications is 17:00 (Dublin time) on November 8, 2023. Apply before the deadline to ensure that your application is considered. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
If you want to start your career in international development and be a part of Ireland’s impactful efforts, do not miss out on the Development Internships offered by Irish Aid. You will gain invaluable experience, information, and abilities from these internships that will enable you to significantly impact the world. Submit an application right now to help those in need have a better future.
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