Job Summary
- Type: internship
- Location: Harare
- Category: Project Management
- Closing Date: 2026-07-21
Key Responsibilities
- Support coordination of CoACT governance structures, technical working groups, partner meetings, workshops, simulation exercises and learning events.
- Maintain activity calendars, stakeholder databases, minutes, action trackers and programme filing systems.
- Monitor early warning information, humanitarian developments and agreed trigger indicators, and prepare concise risk monitoring or situation updates.
- Support preparedness planning, contingency planning, anticipatory action documentation and activation processes where required.
- Collect and compile programme data, update indicator tracking tools, support field monitoring visits and assist with beneficiary feedback mechanisms.
- Support the roll-out of rapid needs assessments during sudden-onset emergencies, compiling primary and secondary data to help identify immediate assistance priorities.
- Contribute to after-action reviews, learning workshops, case studies, success stories, briefing notes and other knowledge products.
- Support communication with consortium members, implementing partners, government departments and humanitarian coordination platforms.
- Assist with donor research, concept note development, proposal inputs, programme summaries and technical annexes.
- Provide logistical and administrative support for travel, procurement documentation, meetings and programme events.
Requirements
- Applicants should hold a Bachelor’s degree obtained within the past three years in Development Studies, Disaster Risk Management, Environmental Science, Climate Change, Agriculture, Statistics, Monitoring and Evaluation, Social Sciences, Public Administration, International Relations, Project Management, Information Management, Economics or another relevant discipline.
- Prior experience through volunteering, internships, research, student leadership or community work will be an added advantage.
- The successful candidate should demonstrate strong research, analytical, communication, data management and organisational skills; proficiency in Microsoft Office applications; attention to detail; initiative; teamwork; professional integrity; respect for diversity and inclusion; and commitment to humanitarian principles, safeguarding and locally led approaches.
- The candidate should also demonstrate strong writing skills, including the ability to draft clear meeting minutes, concise situation updates, accurate assessment summaries, donor-friendly programme updates, case studies, success stories, briefing notes and well-structured reports for different audiences.
Salary
A stipend and reasonable travel support may be provided
How to Apply
About the Company
The Catholic Agency for Overseas Development, commonly known as CAFOD, is an international development and relief charity. It is the official aid agency of the Catholic Church in England and Wales.
Website: https://cafod.org.uk/about-us/where-we-work/africa/zimbabwe
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical educational qualifications required for a Graduate Programme Intern in Project Management in Zimbabwe?
Generally, a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Development Studies, Social Sciences, Business Administration, or Project Management is required. Employers in Zimbabwe often seek recent graduates who have completed their degree within the last one to two years and possess strong academic records. Some roles may also prefer candidates with demonstrable volunteer experience or a basic understanding of project cycles.
What does a Graduate Programme Intern in Project Management typically do on a day-to-day basis?
As a Graduate Programme Intern, you would assist project managers with various tasks including data collection, report writing, monitoring project activities, and coordinating logistics. You would also participate in team meetings, contribute to project planning discussions, and support administrative duties to ensure smooth project operations. This role offers hands-on exposure to the full project lifecycle within a development context.
What should I know about the local work culture and expectations for an intern in Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwean work culture generally values respect, professionalism, punctuality, and a strong work ethic. Interns are expected to be proactive, eager to learn, and willing to take initiative while also following established protocols and respecting hierarchical structures. Building good professional relationships and demonstrating adaptability are also highly regarded.
What are the realistic career progression opportunities after completing a Graduate Programme Internship in Project Management?
A successful internship can provide a strong foundation for entry-level positions like Project Assistant, Programme Officer, or Monitoring and Evaluation Assistant, often within the same or similar organizations. It equips you with practical skills and networking opportunities crucial for advancing into more specialized project management roles over time. Continued professional development, such as PRINCE2 or PMP certifications, significantly enhances long-term growth prospects.
What typical benefits, like leave or medical aid, are usually offered to Graduate Programme Interns in Zimbabwe?
Internship benefits can vary, but many organizations in Zimbabwe offer a modest stipend to cover basic living costs and transport. While comprehensive medical aid and pension schemes are less common for interns, some employers might provide basic accident cover or limited leave entitlements as per Zimbabwean labour laws. It is important to clarify these details during the interview process.
What qualities do Zimbabwean employers look for in a Graduate Programme Intern, and how should I apply effectively?
Employers typically seek candidates with a strong academic background, excellent communication and analytical skills, and a genuine passion for development work. Demonstrating initiative, adaptability, problem-solving abilities, and a willingness to learn are highly valued attributes. To apply effectively, tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences, even volunteer work, and prepare for competency-based interviews.