Mission and objectivesThe mission of the United Nations University is to contribute, through collaborative research and education, to efforts to resolve the pressing global problems of human survival, development, and welfare that are the concern of the United Nations, its Peoples, and Member States. In carrying out this mission, UNU works with leading universities and research institutes in UN Member States, functioning as a bridge between the international academic community and the United Nations system. Through postgraduate teaching activities, UNU contributes to capacity building, particularly in developing countries.
ContextThe United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organisation headquartered in Japan. The mission of the UNU is to contribute, through collaborative research and education, to efforts to resolve the pressing global problems of human survival, development and welfare that are the concern of the United Nations, its Peoples and Member States. For more information, please visit www.unu.edu. The UNU headquarters building is located in 53-70 Jingumae 5โchome, Shibuya-Ku, Tokyo, Japan. Since 1975, UNU has expanded from a single office in Tokyo to a global network of institutes across five continents. The year 2025 marks its 50th anniversary, celebrating its contributions to research expertise that support the UN system and generate evidence-based solutions to the world's most pressing problems. This UNV assignment is in response to an urgent need identified by the Rector to support his numerous speeches, opโeds, and book editing across projects of the Rectorโs Office and UNU, with a focus on his main area of expertise, which is artificial intelligence (AI).
Task DescriptionWithin the delegated authority and under direct supervioin of the Rector's Office, the candidate will ensure continuous representation and support at the United Nations University Headquarters (UNU HQ) during the Rectorโs frequent external engagements, this UNV, supervised by the Rectorโs Office, including the Chief of Staff, Executive Officer, and Senior Assistant to the Rector, produces communications for external and public audiences.
Competencies and valuesAccountability, Adaptability and flexibility, Creativity, Planning and organizing, Professionalism, Self-management
Living conditions and remarksPretoria, you will find an abundance of world-class gyms, restaurants, bars, recreational classes, galleries, parks, etc. The bigger shopping malls host a large selection of international brands. There is a plethora of international cuisine to sample and quirky independent cinemas to discover. OR Tambo International Airport is a world-class airport, offering highly sophisticated facilities. It is located just outside Johannesburg, in Kempton Park. Many international airlines fly into this airport. Crime rates in South Africa are ranked on the high end, petty theft and opportunistic crimes are common, and armed robberies, smash & grabs, and hijackings are also fairly frequent in certain areas. One needs to remain vigilant, especially at night and at road intersections. There are usually signposts that indicate such hot spots. Periodic security information updates are sent via email, providing information at the national level regarding circumstances such as incidents of civil unrest, transport security, computer and networking safety, and trends in criminality. UNDSS sends weekly security updates via email. Updates from wardens are ad hoc and follow security-related events in your residential area. Updates from UNDSS are provided weekly. National UN Volunteers typically serve within their home country, with varying living conditions by duty station. Urban areas offer access to amenities like housing and healthcare, while rural locations may require adaptability. Volunteers are responsible for their accommodation, with guidance from the host entity, and receive safety and security support through the UN system. Allowances cover basic needs, and volunteers benefit from unique opportunities to engage with local cultures and communities. UN Volunteers receives the below entitlements: โข A monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA): R22 926.08 per month, โข A monthly Expertise differential: R9 170.43 per month, โข A once off entry lumpsum of $400 at the start of the assignment, โข Medical insurance; Life cover, and annual leave, โข Access to all learning platforms, โข A once off exit lumpsum at the end of the assignment.