Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are core principles at UNDP: we value diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate, we foster inclusion as a way of ensuring all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, and we ensure equity and fairness in all our actions. Taking a ‘leave no one behind’ approach to our diversity efforts means increasing representation of underserved populations. People who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Learn more about working at UNDP including our values and inspiring stories.
UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks.
UNDP is the leading United Nations organization in fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality and climate change. Working in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet (learn more at undp.org , follow @UNDP). UNDP in Ghana is currently focusing its development interventions on : accountable, inclusive and responsive governance and social cohesion ; and sustainable, resilient and inclusive growth and structural transformation . UNDP has incubated strategic initiatives to ensure its ‘fitness for purpose’ to deliver new development solutions. These initiatives include the UNDP Accelerator Lab (AccLab) Network , which serves 115 countries including Ghana . AccLabs help in tackling complex development challenges, such as youth unemployment.
Young people comprise 38\% of Ghana’s population , but despite investments to create employment opportunities for them, significant problems remain. Many young Ghanaians have innovative solutions to social and economic challenges, but struggle to unlock economic opportunities and create employment. About 25\% of young people are not in employment, education or training (NEET). The situation is particularly challenging for marginalized groups including women, persons with disabilities (PWDs) and rural communities.
Youth-based entrepreneurship provides a route out of unemployment, but it is estimated that 74\% of Ghanaian start-ups fail due to limited systems and pathways to develop and scale. There is a critical need to support young innovators and entrepreneurs to develop and scale innovative solutions and create employment opportunities. UNDP (with funding from Mastercard Foundation) is deploying a Young Africa Innovates (YAI) Programme which will develop an innovative system to generate, identify and scale youth-led solutions to spur employment, with a focus on marginalized groups.
UNDP now requires an Innovation Associate for the YAI Team.
Duties And Responsibilities
Institutional Arrangement
The Innovation Associate will be based in Accra and work under the direct supervision of the Head of Experimentation.
Competencies
Core
Cross-Functional & Technical competencies
System Thinking
Communication
Risk Management
Project Management
Monitoring
Working With Evidence And Data
Knowledge Facilitation
Education
Required Skills and Experience
Experience
Required Language(s)
Disclaimer
Applicant Information About UNDP Rosters
Note: UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.
Non-discrimination
UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, sexual harassment, and abuse of authority. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles.
UNDP is an equal opportunity and inclusive employer that does not discriminate based on race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status.
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