Mobile innovation for local governance - KIT

Programme

Besides the emergence of locally elected governments, the opening up of spaces of public participation and inclusive decision making, there has been another revolution.  Worldwide, the explosion of communication tools and technologies has been reshaping the way people organize themselves to demand actions and to participate in social and political institutions. This has challenged democracies, totalitarian governments and religious hierarchies across the world. Accessible, affordable and innovative communication tools push the role and boundaries of citizenship which is going through a tremendous redefinition. Concrete examples are the recent popular revolts in Northern Africa and the increasing effects of online civic activism.

Where does the world of mobile technology and political/social change come together, especially in Sub Saharan Africa? How can mobile technology, in particular mobile phones and mobile internet, support the democratization processes and what are the related risks? What is happening now and what are potential developments? What would be the role of a knowledge institute like KIT in this on-going process? Building upon a literature review and numerous interviews with actors of the civil society, local governments, researchers, phone operators and developers in Europe and Africa, KIT has identified several knowledge gaps and proposes a multi-component program to contribute to the development of knowledge and practical applications in this field of work.

Internship position

To support the rapid development of this knowledge development project on the potential of mobile technologies for citizenship and local governance, the Royal Tropical Institute (KIT) invites interested candidates to apply for this internship position.

What we offer

• A dynamic and international environment with young and motivated colleagues   
  
• The opportunity to work on an upcoming topic and meet with a large range of experts in the field of governance and ICT4D
• An experience combining content work with online platform management and event organization

Required Qualifications

• Fluency in English and French (both speaking and reading/writing)

Desirable Qualifications

• Postgraduate student (Master’s level), but undergraduate applicants will also be considered in social sciences, development studies, ICT and media development, etc.
• Interest and/or prior experience (e.g., through coursework, thesis, etc.) in literature research and synthesis writing
• Demonstrated interest, experience, or willingness to learn about ICT in developing countries, in particular on the use of mobile phones and internet in Sub Saharan Africa
• Demonstrated interest, experience, or willingness to learn governance and citizenship in Sub Saharan Africa
• Experience with social media and online community of practice

Position Responsibilities

• Analyse surveys and research reports, and write summary reports in both English and French
• Co-coordinate the information provision with the department in charge of the maintenance of the internet platform)
• Suggest platform moderation strategies and set-up; and maintain contact with Community of Practice (CoP) members through forums and mailing lists.
• Support the organization of an expert-meeting in October 2011 (preparation, note taking, CoP development etc.)

Duration and Starting Date

Min three months (to be discussed) from the end of August

Interns’ Remuneration

Interns are paid a monthly salary of € 550. The Institute accepts no responsibility for costs arising from accidents and/or illness incurred during the internship. Interns must provide proof of enrolment in a health insurance plan.