Graduate Trainee – Stakeholder Engagement and Science Diplomacy at The Science for Africa Foundation

JOB PURPOSE

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.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND 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.

PERSON SPECIFICATIONS

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.