Graduate Trainee – Stakeholder Engagement and Science Diplomacy at The Science for Africa Foundation in Nairobi, Kenya

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    Graduate Trainee – Stakeholder Engagement and Science Diplomacy

    Posted

    2 days ago

    Apply by

    1 Sept

    Contractor
    On Site
    Internship
    Charity, NGO & Non-Profit
    Community & Social Services

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    Job Description

    This position is designed as a developmental learning opportunity for a highly motivated graduate seeking exposure to the intersection of science, policy, and global partnerships within the SFA Foundation. Under the guidance and supervision of the Manager – Stakeholder Engagement and Science Diplomacy, the Graduate Trainee will support and learn from ongoing stakeholder engagement, partnership development, and science diplomacy activities, including contributing to the operationalisation of the Science Diplomacy & Advisory Hub.

    Key Responsibilities

    • Learn and support the conduct of background research on stakeholders, meetings, and priority engagement areas, including exposure to emerging science diplomacy trends and global policy developments.
    • Under close supervision, assist in preparing presentations, summaries, and engagement materials, while developing skills in synthesising information for internal use.
    • Support and learn how stakeholder engagement data is analysed by compiling information and gaining exposure to identifying trends, gaps, and opportunities for strengthening partnerships.
    • Assist in drafting internal reports and learning summaries related to stakeholder engagement and science diplomacy activities, with guidance from senior team members.
    • Learn to maintain and update stakeholder databases including funders, government agencies, and partners and understand stakeholder management systems within the Foundation.
    • Support tracking of strategic partnerships and engagement outcomes, while gaining practical understanding of documentation, follow-up, and accountability processes.
    • Participate in coordination of meetings, site visits, and stakeholder engagements e.g., scheduling, note-taking, and tracking action points to build organisational and professional communication skills.
    • Support and learn the organisation and management of stakeholder-related information and records using internal systems and tools.
    • Contribute to and observe ongoing initiatives e.g., Science Diplomacy & Advisory Hub, gaining exposure to high-level engagements and institutional partnerships.
    • Actively participate in structured learning, mentoring, and feedback sessions, and progressively apply acquired knowledge and skills in day-to-day tasks.

    Required Qualifications

    • Bachelor's degree in International Relations, Public Policy, Development Studies, Political Science, Communications or a related field. Any relevant field.
    • No prior work experience is required.
    • Strong research and analytical skills.
    • Excellent written and verbal communication.
    • Strong organisational and coordination skills.
    • Interest in stakeholder engagement, partnerships, and global development.
    • Ability to synthesise information and produce clear summaries.
    • Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks.
    • Demonstrates curiosity, openness to feedback, and ability to apply new knowledge.
    • Takes responsibility for assigned tasks and meets deadlines reliably.
    • Communicates clearly and professionally with colleagues and stakeholders.
    • Collaborates effectively and contributes positively to team objectives.
    • Shows developing ability to analyse information and support problem-solving.
    • Adjusts to changing environments and proactively supports tasks and learning.

    Job Details

    Job Function

    Community & Social Services

    Education Level

    Bachelor’s Degree

    Area of Study

    Social Sciences

    Field of Study

    International Relations

    Additional Information

    How to Apply: Interested and qualified? Go to The Science for Africa Foundation on scienceforafrica.foundation to apply.

    Show Your Research and Writing Chops

    This graduate trainee role is all about learning the ropes of stakeholder engagement and science diplomacy. Hiring managers will be looking for someone who can turn complex information into clear, useful summaries and who genuinely cares about science's role in African development.

    1. Tailor your CV to the role: Highlight any coursework, internships, or volunteer work that involved research, writing, or event coordination. Use bullet points to show how you've synthesized information or supported partnerships, even in a small way.

    2. Prepare a writing sample: Since the role involves drafting reports and engagement materials, have a polished writing sample ready—maybe a policy brief, a research summary, or a blog post. Make sure it's concise and well-structured.

    3. Research the SFA Foundation: Understand their mission, key projects like the Science Diplomacy & Advisory Hub, and their partners. Mention specific aspects in your cover letter to show you've done your homework.

    4. Practice your communication skills: The role requires excellent written and verbal communication. Be ready to articulate why you're interested in science diplomacy and how your background fits. Practice answering common interview questions clearly and confidently.

    5. Show your organizational skills: Give examples of how you've managed multiple tasks or coordinated events, even in academic or volunteer settings. Highlight your attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.

    6. Emphasize your learning mindset: This is a trainee role, so they want someone curious and open to feedback. Share instances where you've quickly picked up new skills or adapted to changing situations.

    7. Network with current or former staff: If possible, connect with people who work or have worked at the foundation on LinkedIn. Ask about their experience and any advice they have for applicants. This can give you valuable insights and maybe even a referral.

    8. Prepare thoughtful questions: At the end of the interview, ask about the team's current projects, mentorship opportunities, or how success is measured for this role. This shows you're genuinely interested and forward-thinking.

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    Tags

    stakeholder engagement
    science diplomacy
    research
    partnerships
    policy