Overview of J-PAL Africa
J-PAL Africa, a global research center dedicated to reducing poverty through evidence-based policy, is inviting applications for its 2025 internship program. J-PAL operates under the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and has its Africa office based at the University of Cape Town (UCT). Additional satellite offices are located in Johannesburg, Accra, and Nairobi. The organization brings together motivated individuals and a global network of development economists to make a meaningful impact.
Internship Details
The internship opportunities span various teams, including policy, research, and education & training. These are paid roles, and the positions can be structured as either full-time or part-time. Depending on the intern’s nationality and team requirements, the internship can be conducted remotely or in person in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Accra, or Nairobi.
Policy Internship Opportunities
1. Education Portfolio Internship
This portfolio focuses on shaping education policies across Africa using scientific evidence. The team works closely with governments to develop impactful education programs, with a growing emphasis on broader education sectors beyond girls’ education.
Key Responsibilities:
- Identifying opportunities to utilize and generate evidence in education.
- Mapping potential partnerships across the sector.
- Creating communication content and strategies to engage with various stakeholders.
Location: Remote or in-person (Accra, Nairobi, or Cape Town).
Start Date: Flexible.
2. Digital Identification & Finance Initiative (DigiFI) Internship
DigiFI supports experimental research to assess the impact of digital identification and payment systems in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assisting with the Request for Proposal process for project funding.
- Supporting project development and evidence-sharing initiatives.
- Building partnerships with governments and stakeholders.
Location: In-person at the Nairobi office.
Start Date: Flexible.
Note: J-PAL Africa cannot sponsor work visas.
Research Internship
J-PAL Africa conducts research on labor, education, social grants, environment, and energy in South Africa.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conducting desk-based research and data analysis.
- Assisting with fieldwork and coordinating events.
- Developing project materials.
Eligibility:
This internship is ideal for students pursuing an Honours or Master’s degree at a South African university.
Location: In-person at the Johannesburg office.
Note: Applicants must have the legal right to work in South Africa. J-PAL Africa cannot sponsor work visas.
Education & Training Internship
This team offers training on designing and implementing randomized evaluations. They also manage initiatives to integrate more African researchers into J-PAL’s network through the African Scholars Program.
Key Responsibilities:
- Organizing webinars and knowledge management for training activities.
- Developing outreach communication materials.
- Planning in-person courses for 2025.
Location: Remote or in-person (Nairobi or Cape Town).
Start Date: Flexible.
Eligibility Requirements
Candidates should meet the following criteria:
- A degree (or final-year studies) in Economics, Statistics, Development, or a related field.
- MicroMasters students in Data, Economics, and Design of Policy (DEDP) must have completed at least one course. Preference will be given to candidates with grades above 75% and multiple completed courses (especially in Data Analysis for Social Scientists and Designing and Running Randomized Evaluations).
- A demonstrated interest in social policy and development research.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Proficiency in communication.
- Knowledge of French is highly advantageous.
- Must be a national of a Sub-Saharan African country.
Additional Information
J-PAL Africa will host a careers information event in early 2025, providing insights into the organization, available internships, and career opportunities. Team members will present detailed descriptions of the roles and answer questions. The date and registration link for the webinar will be shared soon.
Application Process
Application Deadline: 3 March 2025.
How to Apply: Interested candidates can apply here.
For inquiries, contact Lauren Roode at [email protected]. J-PAL Africa eagerly awaits your applications!
