Job Summary
The Policy Support Intern will collaborate with the Policy & Evidence-to-Action team to promote evidence-based policymaking and enhance stakeholder engagement within IPA Nigeria’s key sectors, with a special focus on Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE), financial inclusion, gender, governance, social protection, and inclusive development.
The role provides an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in policy research, evidence synthesis, stakeholder engagement, strategic convening, and evidence-to-policy translation within a global research and policy organization.
Responsibilities
We are seeking a skilled professional to conduct comprehensive policy research and synthesize evidence to inform strategic decision-making. The ideal candidate will possess a strong academic background in public policy, economics, or a related field, along with proven experience in qualitative and quantitative research methods. Responsibilities include identifying policy gaps, analyzing data trends, and producing high-quality reports that distill complex information into actionable insights. Proficiency in research tools, statistical analysis software, and policy databases is essential, as is the ability to collaborate with stakeholders across diverse sectors. Strong analytical thinking, meticulous attention to detail, and exceptional written and verbal communication skills are required to effectively convey findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Perform comprehensive desk reviews and literature scans focusing on high-priority policy and development topics, such as gender equality, women’s economic empowerment, financial inclusion, governance, livelihoods, and social protection.
Assist in the creation of policy briefs, evidence summaries, concept notes, presentations, and technical reports to support organizational objectives.
Compile research results into actionable recommendations for policymakers and sector-specific stakeholders, ensuring findings are translated into clear, implementable strategies.
Assist in the development of comprehensive maps that detail pertinent policies, frameworks, stakeholders, and institutional actors within the designated sectors.
We facilitate collaboration with stakeholders and provide guidance on policy-related matters to ensure alignment and effective decision-making.
Facilitate the organization and record-keeping of stakeholder meetings, technical discussions, workshops, and policy dialogues.
Support stakeholder mapping initiatives and monitor engagement results to ensure alignment with project objectives.
Support is needed to prepare for events focused on evidence dissemination, learning convening, and policy roundtables.
Prepare comprehensive meeting notes, detailed engagement summaries, and structured follow-up action trackers to ensure clarity and accountability.
Research Coordination & Learning Agenda Support involves assisting in the development, implementation, and management of research initiatives to ensure alignment with organizational objectives. Responsibilities include organizing research activities, coordinating with stakeholders, and maintaining documentation to track progress. Additionally, the role entails contributing to the creation and refinement of learning agendas, ensuring they reflect current priorities and gaps in knowledge. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in project management tools are required, along with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams. Prior experience in research coordination or a related field is preferred.
Assist in managing the organization and facilitation of thematic working groups and research coordination initiatives.
Provide support in arranging documents and resources for Research Coordinating Committee (RCC) meetings and specialized technical working sessions.
Assist in enhancing the formulation of research inquiries and the structuring of learning initiatives.
Assist in identifying policy and evidence gaps that could shape future research initiatives.
We offer comprehensive support in data management, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL), as well as institutional strengthening to enhance organizational efficiency and impact. This role involves collaborating with teams to ensure accurate data collection, analysis, and reporting, while also providing strategic guidance to improve institutional systems and processes. Additionally, the position requires developing and implementing MEL frameworks, conducting evaluations, and facilitating training sessions to build capacity within the organization. Ideal candidates should have a strong background in data analysis, MEL methodologies, and institutional development, coupled with excellent communication skills to engage stakeholders effectively.
Provide support for the preliminary examination, compilation, and structured management of institutional data, policy documentation, and evidence archives.
Facilitate MEL-related tasks focused on policy engagement and initiatives aimed at institutional strengthening.
Assist in documenting key lessons learned, institutional insights, and opportunities for evidence utilization.
The selected candidate will provide comprehensive administrative assistance and collaborative team support to ensure efficient daily operations. This role involves managing schedules, coordinating meetings, and maintaining accurate records while facilitating seamless communication among team members. Strong organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment are essential. Proficiency in office software, including Microsoft Office Suite, and exceptional interpersonal abilities to interact with stakeholders at all levels are required. The ideal candidate must thrive in a team-oriented setting, demonstrate proactive problem-solving, and possess the adaptability to support dynamic business needs.
Facilitate the planning, organization, and interaction with key stakeholders and partners to ensure seamless scheduling and effective communication.
You are expected to actively participate in pertinent team meetings, training sessions, and organizational learning initiatives to enhance professional development and contribute to collective objectives.
Offer comprehensive administrative and operational assistance to the Policy & Evidence-to-Action team in accordance with assigned tasks.
Seeking a highly motivated individual with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, along with a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Java, or C++ is essential, alongside strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. The ideal candidate will demonstrate exceptional analytical capabilities, attention to detail, and a passion for continuous learning and innovation. Responsibilities include designing, developing, and maintaining software solutions, troubleshooting technical issues, and contributing to the enhancement of existing systems. Excellent communication skills are required to articulate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
A degree or relevant experience in Public Policy, Political Science, Economics, Development Studies, Public Health, Gender Studies, International Development, Social Sciences, or a closely related discipline is required.
The ideal candidate must demonstrate exceptional proficiency in writing, conducting thorough research, and performing detailed analysis.
Professionals with a keen interest in evidence-informed policymaking, governance, gender and women’s economic empowerment (WEE), as well as development programming, are encouraged to apply.
Demonstrated skill in organizing and presenting information in a clear, concise manner is essential.
Exceptional ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and articulate ideas clearly, both verbally and in writing.
Proficiency in utilizing Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, is required.
Demonstrates proficiency in managing tasks autonomously while also contributing effectively as part of a dynamic, high-energy team. Thrives in settings that demand both individual accountability and cohesive teamwork under tight deadlines.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
