Ghana Center for Democratic Development

Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana)

About CDD-Ghana

The Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) is an independent not-for-profit think-and-do-tank that works through research, policy engagement, thought leadership, and civic dialogue and partnerships to promote and strengthen democracy, good governance, and inclusive development in Ghana and the rest of Africa. A founding Core Partner (and Ghana National Partner) of Afrobarometer, CDD-Ghana is also the convenor and secretariat for the Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO), West Africa Election Observers Network (WAEON), and West Africa Democracy Solidarity Network (WADEMOS).

Project:

The work structure and culture of the Research and Programs Department ensures that interns work with the Research and Programs staff in various project teams. Currently, the Center has several ongoing research and programs activities which are grouped under eight broad thematic areas, namely, West Africa Democracy Solidarity Network, Afrobarometer Survey; Local Government Decentralization; Elections Credibility Enhancement; Human Rights Promotion and Constitutional Development; Natural Resource Governance; Security and Migration; and Governmental Transparency and Accountability. Depending on their interests and qualifications, interns will be assigned to teams working on any of these projects.

Interns are often tasked with reviewing and analyzing concept papers, proposals, and memoranda on specific topics, as well as conducting desk and field research. They may also be required to participate in organizational activities and prepare reports, where necessary.

At the Center, interns work under the supervision of the Internship Coordinators and the Director of Research and Knowledge Management. In addition, interns are assigned to specific team leads within the Research and Knowledge Management, Programs, and Policy Engagement units, who provide guidance, mentorship, and support throughout their internship.

Eligibility & Skills Required:

The internship is open to continuing undergraduate and graduate students. Students from any department are welcome to apply. Applicants must be in good academic standing with a GPA of 3.3 or higher.

The following are some skills we look out for in our interns:

• Proficiency in English, both written and spoken.
• Strong analytical and writing skills, which are particularly important as interns are expected to produce policy briefs and other written outputs during their internship.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in completing assigned tasks.
• Ability to develop project proposals and concept notes, conduct desk research, analyse data using SPSS, Stata, or R, and prepare research reports is an added advantage.
• Punctuality and commitment to assigned tasks and responsibilities.

Language Requirement:

No. We do not require proficiency in any language other than English. However, proficiency in French would be an added advantage.

Location:

The internship is located in Accra, Ghana

Visa information: Students who do not hold an ECOWAS passport will require a visa to undertake an internship at the Center. The Center will provide the intern with a visa support letter and any other relevant information required to facilitate the visa application process.

Accommodations: The Center can assist students by providing recommendations for accommodation options during their stay in Ghana. However, students are encouraged to make accommodation requests as soon as they are selected for the internship to allow sufficient time to facilitate the process.

Stipend:

FSI is committed to providing its opportunities to students regardless of financial constraints.  FSI’s Global Policy Interns are provided with a stipend to cover travel and living expenses during the summer.  These stipends do not exceed $7,000 per student.  Students must submit a budget with their estimated costs along with their application.  If you have financial constraints that you think may prevent you from participating in this program, please contact FSI academic program manager Patrick Laboon directly.

Application:

Applicants will be asked to submit:

• Application Form
• Name of faculty reference (letter of recommendation not required)
• CV/Resume
• Unofficial Transcript
• Budget

Frequently Asked Questions

Please note: You may only apply to one FSI Global Policy Internship.