MEL and Data Support Intern

Internship Description

Requirements

Job Title: Programs Intern - MEL and Data Support Intern

Office: Gambia Participates office, Kololi

Application Deadline: 10^th August, 2026 at 23:59 GMT

Duration: 3 Months

Location: Gambia Participates office, Kololi

Required Language(s): English

About the Role

Gambia Participates is looking for a detail-oriented intern to support the Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) function within the Programs Department. The MEL Support Intern will work closely with the MEL Officer to gather, organise, and verify data across GP's portfolio of anti-corruption, fiscal transparency, and election-related initiatives. The role places particular emphasis on field and desk-based data gathering, data entry and cleaning, tracking of indicators, and supporting the production of accurate, evidence-based reporting for partners and internal decision-making.

The internship offers a valuable platform for emerging professionals, particularly recent graduates, to gain hands-on work experience in monitoring and evaluation practice within a dynamic and forward-thinking civil society organisation. This fosters the development of practical MEL and data management skills at an accelerated pace, alongside a grounding in good governance programming.

Duties and Responsibilities

Key Duties:

• Support the MEL Officer in collecting quantitative and qualitative data from program activities, events, and field engagements, using surveys, questionnaires, interviews, and observation checklists
• Assist in designing and pre-testing simple data collection tools (forms, checklists, and templates) for ongoing projects
• Enter, organise, and clean data collected from program activities, ensuring accuracy and consistency before it is used for reporting or analysis
• Support the maintenance and regular updating of project M&E databases, trackers, and indicator matrices
• Assist in tracking progress against project log-frames, results frameworks, and work plans, flagging gaps or delays for the MEL Officer's attention
• Assist in reviewing data received from field workers, conduct quality assurance and accuracy check under the guidelines and supervision of the MEL Officer.
• Assist with the preparation of charts, tables, and visual summaries of data for reports and presentations
• Support the MEL Officer during monitoring visits and field data collection exercises, as needed
• Participate in program and MEL team meetings as required
• Take on other MEL and data-related duties as requested by the MEL Officer, Programs Manager, and senior management

Qualifications and Experience

Applicants must be:

• Recent graduates with a focus in Statistics, Economics, Development Studies, Political Science, Public Administration, International Relations, Social Sciences, or related fields
• Demonstrated interest in monitoring and evaluation, data management, good governance, anti-corruption, fiscal transparency, elections, and national development
• Strong academic performance on data analysis 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel; familiarity with data collection tools such as KoboToolbox and Google Forms will be an advantage
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in handling data
• Excellent research and analytical skills/interest
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple data sources and deadlines
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Advanced command of English
• Knowledge of local languages will be an advantage
• Understanding of The Gambia's political and governance landscape will be an asset

How to Apply

Send a one-page cover letter and CV (in PDF) to careers@gambiaparticipates.org not later than 10^th August, 2026 at 23:59 GMT. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. It is very important to indicate “Application for the vacancy of Programs Department Intern - MEL and Data Support” on the email subject.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or gender. We strive to create a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can feel valued and respected. All employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

Additional Information