Background
UNDP Bhutan, in partnership with the Zhemgang Dzongkhag Administration, is supporting efforts to strengthen Dzongkhagโs local economic development in alignment with Bhutanโsย 21st century economic road map of Bhutan and the 13FYP. Zhemgang Dzongkhag is well known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, and has huge potential to leverageย eco-tourism, entrepreneurship, and social innovationย to drive inclusive growth.ย
Towards this, UNDP Bhutan is seeking two interns to be placed with the newly established Planning and Economic Development Center under the Zhemgang Dzongkhag Administration to support its efforts aimed at catalyzing sustainable and economic pathways for the Dzongkhagโs Socio-economic development. Interns will be engaged from August to October 2025 (subject to extension) with duty station in Zhemgang, Bhutan.ย
Duties and Responsibilities
Under the guidance and direct supervision of Environment and Livelihood Unit, UNDP, and Planning and Economic Development Center under the Zhemgang Administration Dzongkhag, the Interns will provide assistance and support, and deliver tasks such as, but not limited to, programmatic, operational, administrative and coordination works.ย
The interns will assist in the following duties and responsibilities:
Assist in identifying and mapping eco-tourism assets and attractions. Support the development of promotional materials (digital/print) for ecotourism initiatives. Help coordinate community-based tourism initiatives and support training programs. Facilitate social media and digital marketing campaigns to boost visibility for ecotourism products and events. Contribute to the review, implementation and monitoring of the Dzongkhag Local Economic Development Strategy. Identify and map opportunities and partners to strengthen local product value chains (e.g., handicrafts, homestays, organic products) Conduct secondary research to document best practices in event management, community engagement, and sustainability strategies.ย Support in the creation of promotional and advocacy materials, and outreach strategies. Support in scheduling, budgeting, and allocation of resources. Support development of social enterprise business models and researching innovative financing models. Assist in the coordination and outreach of targeted social protection and livelihoods programs. Document beneficiary stories and draft communication materials. Support awareness programs on financial literacy, digital tools, and local enterprise development. Provide coordination support to UNDP and Planning and Economic Development Center of Zhemgang Dzongkhag to ensure efficient internal and external communications. Provide administrative and logistical support to conduct events, meetings, and workshops, record minutes, and manage correspondences.ย Support in providing data and information related to the Economic Development Strategy. Provide other ad-hoc support as required.Competencies
Familiarity with rural economic development, social assistance programs, tourism, or entrepreneurship will be an asset. Digital literacy and familiarity with design tools (e.g., Canva, Excel, or media editing tools) is an advantage. Curiosity and Creative thinking. Qualitative and Quantitative research skills. Good analytical skills in gathering and consolidating data and research for practical implementation. Communicates effectively when working in teams and independently. Strong organizational skills and the ability to multi-task. Displays culture, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability. Ability to support team and team building skills. Strong attention to detail. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Responds positively to feedback and differing points of view; and Consistently approaches to work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude showing willingness to learn.Required Skills and Experience
Candidates must at the time of application meet ONE of the following requirements:ย
Be enrolled in a postgraduate degree programme (such as a masterโs programme, or higher); Be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree programme (such as bachelorโs degree or equivalent). Have recently graduated with a university degree (as defined in (1) and (2) above) and, if selected, must start the internship within one year of graduation. Be enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program and undertake the internship as part of this program.Applicants must have a first level degree in either Economics, Business Administration, Sustainable Development, Environmental Science, Biodiversity or other related fields.ย
Language: Proficiency in written and spoken English and Dzongkha
Equal opportunity
As an equal opportunity employer, UNDP values diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate and, as such, we encourage qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply for roles in the organization. Our employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role, without discrimination.ย
UNDP is also committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, are valued, can thrive, and benefit from career opportunities that are open to all.
Sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse of authority
UNDP does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority. All selected candidates, therefore, undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles.ย
Right to select multiple candidates
UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement.ย 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.
Scam alert
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