• Country: Manila, Philippines
• No of vacancies: N/A
  
• Salary: N/A 
• Organization: WHO
• Gender: Both
• Deadline: 2024-02-19

OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME

The Integrated Communicable Diseases (ICD) unit is placed at the core of the division to tackle communicable diseases in the Western Pacific Region in achieving the goals of “Reaching the Unreached”. ICD unit integrates End TB and Leprosy, HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections, Malaria, Dengue, and Neglected Tropical Diseases and Surveillance to take a systems approach for impact-oriented implementation of communicable disease control programmes at regional and country levels. ICD works for action across government and society in strengthening integrated, people-centred care and prevention of communicable diseases by advocating for bold policies and supportive system, intensified research, and innovation, establishing strong partnerships and strengthening surveillance, monitoring and evaluation. Focus areas of the programme are regional and country adaptation of evidence-based policies and strategies, facilitation of coordinated multisectoral actions, and enhancement of intervention and service delivery.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

Terms of reference

Under the supervision of a technical expert in communicable diseases and reaching the unreached, and in line with the ICD research agenda and planned technical products, the intern is assigned the agreed terms of reference:

Research and Analysis:

• Conduct in-depth research on a prioritized topic related to communicable diseases of public health concern and aligned with the Research Agenda for Reaching the Unreached in the Western Pacific Region.
• Utilize a variety of research methodologies, including literature review, secondary data analysis, and, if applicable, qualitative methods such as interviews with key stakeholders.

Knowledge Dissemination:

• Prepare and submit a research paper based on the findings for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
• Develop and present findings in various formats such as seminars, webinars, or workshops, to maximize impact and outreach.

Technical Material Development:

• Create 1-2 products of mutual interest within the communicable diseases domain. These materials, such as technical briefs, tools, communication materials, guides, manuals, or reports, should be practical, evidence-based, and aligned with WHO’s standards and objectives.

Meeting Participation and Learning:

• Actively participate in relevant meetings, both online and onsite, to deepen understanding of the field and the operations of the World Health Organization.
• Engage in these meetings not just as an attendee but as a contributor, offering insights and learning from others’ expertise.

Professional Development:

• Engage in opportunities for skill and knowledge development, including attending WHO-led training sessions and workshops related to communicable diseases and public health.
• Network with professionals within WHO and in the broader public health community to build connections and gain a more comprehensive understanding of global health challenges.

Reporting and Evaluation:

• Regularly report progress on assigned tasks and projects to the assigned supervisor.
• Participate in periodic evaluations to assess the effectiveness and impact of the internship experience, both for personal development and contribution to the unit.

Learning objectives

The purpose of the WHO Internship Programme is to provide an enriching learning experience for students and recent graduates. The Learning Objectives outlined within each internship vacancy are a key component of the programme.

Within this internship, the intern will:

• Understand the objectives of the programme/area of work
• Communicate clearly about the programme/area of work
• Understand the difference of work between headquarters, regional offices and country offices
• Know how to conduct and review literature surveys
• Know how to assemble data and prepare a comprehensive analysis
• Prepare background documents for meetings
• Develop the outline of a document

DURATION OF INTERNSHIP

12 weeks – tentative start date, 15 January 2024

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education

Have completed the equivalent of three years of full-time studies at a university or equivalent institution prior to commencing the assignment; AND be enrolled in a course of study at a university or equivalent institution leading to a formal qualification (applicants who have already graduated may also qualify for consideration provided that they apply to the internship within six months after completion of their formal qualification).

Skills
Core competencies

• Teamwork
• Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences
• Communication

All interns should be able to demonstrate the following skills in line with the WHO core competencies:

• Communicating effectively orally and in writing
• Showing willingness to learn from mistakes
• Producing and delivering quality results
• Working collaboratively with team members

In addition, interns need to be familiar with commonly used computer programmes, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint. Knowledge of specialized computer programmes, for example, statistical software such as XLStat may be an advantage.

Experience

• Experience in research and/or in drafting reports
• Experience in the subject area through academic work or research
• Field and/or developing country experience
• Experience with data analysis, statistical packages and interest in the design of graphical display and analysis of health information in an international comparative perspective, such as for health system performance assessment
• More specific experience such as specialized computer programmes

Languages

Essential: Expert knowledge of English.
Desirable: Intermediate knowledge of other UN language.

APPLY NOW