Summary: Graduate Trainee – Stakeholder Engagement and Science Diplomacy role at Science for Africa Foundation. Responsible for supporting stakeholder engagement, research, partnership development, and science diplomacy initiatives. Requires a relevant degree in international relations, communications, science, public policy, or a related field, with strong research and communication skills. The role is based in Nairobi with duties performed on-site.
This
position is designed as a developmental learning opportunity for a highly
motivated graduate seeking exposure to the intersection of science, policy, and
global partnerships within the SFA Foundation.
Under the guidance and supervision of the Manager – Stakeholder Engagement and Science Diplomacy, the Graduate Trainee will support and learn from ongoing stakeholder engagement, partnership development, and science diplomacy activities, including contributing to the operationalisation of the Science Diplomacy & Advisory Hub.
The
role provides structured hands-on exposure to high-level engagements with
governments, funders, and global partners, with a strong emphasis on
learning-by-doing, mentorship, and continuous skills development. The trainee
will contribute to background research, drafting engagement content, process
coordination, and internal knowledge products that inform decision-making
across Africa’s science and innovation ecosystem.
This
position is intended for a candidate with a strong interest in science as a
driver of progressive policy and development and research and innovation
systems who is eager to build foundational professional skills, apply
analytical thinking in a guided environment, and progressively develop
competencies in stakeholder engagement and science diplomacy.
SFA
Foundation is committed to fostering a culture grounded in Respect,
Accountability, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI), and Excellence. We
seek individuals who embody these values in their work and interactions.
Key Responsibilities
- Learn and support the conduct of background research on
stakeholders, meetings, and priority engagement areas, including exposure
to emerging science diplomacy trends and global policy developments.
- Under close supervision, assist in preparing presentations,
summaries, and engagement materials, while developing skills in
synthesising information for internal use.
- Support and learn how stakeholder engagement data is analysed by
compiling information and gaining exposure to identifying trends, gaps,
and opportunities for strengthening partnerships.
- Assist in drafting internal reports and learning summaries related
to stakeholder engagement and science diplomacy activities, with guidance
from senior team members.
- Learn to maintain and update stakeholder databases (including
funders, government agencies, and partners) and understand stakeholder
management systems within the Foundation.
- Support tracking of strategic partnerships and engagement outcomes,
while gaining practical understanding of documentation, follow-up, and
accountability processes.
- Participate in coordination of meetings, site visits, and
stakeholder engagements (e.g., scheduling, note-taking, and tracking
action points) to build organisational and professional communication
skills.
- Support and learn the organisation and management of
stakeholder-related information and records using internal systems and
tools.
- Contribute to and observe ongoing initiatives (e.g., Science
Diplomacy & Advisory Hub), gaining exposure to high-level engagements
and institutional partnerships.
- Actively participate in structured learning, mentoring, and feedback
sessions, and progressively apply acquired knowledge and skills in
day-to-day tasks.
Academic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, Public Policy,
Development Studies, Political Science, Communications or a related field.
Professional Qualifications
- Any relevant field.
Experience
- No prior work experience is required.
Knowledge, Skills and
Attributes
- Strong research and analytical skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication.
- Strong organisational and coordination skills.
- Interest in stakeholder engagement, partnerships, and global
development.
- Ability to synthesise information and produce clear summaries.
- Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks.
Competencies
- Demonstrates curiosity, openness to feedback, and ability to apply
new knowledge.
- Takes responsibility for assigned tasks and meets deadlines
reliably.
- Communicates clearly and professionally with colleagues and
stakeholders.
- Collaborates effectively and contributes positively to team
objectives.
- Shows developing ability to analyse information and support
problem-solving.
- Adjusts to changing environments and proactively supports tasks and
learning.
How to Apply
