Intern Internationalization Convocation Unit

**Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS): Intern

• Internationalization & Convocation Unit**

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Company Intelligence

• History & Size: MUHAS began as Dar es Salaam Medical School in 1963, evolving into a leading health sciences university in Tanzania. It became a constituent college of the University of Dar es Salaam in 1991 and was established as an independent university in

2007. MUHAS is recognized for its significant growth in student enrollment and academic programs, especially in biomedical, clinical, and allied health sciences.

• Industry Position: MUHAS is Tanzania’s premier public health sciences university, known for its research, teaching, and international collaborations, particularly in medicine and public health.
• Recent News & Strategic Direction: MUHAS is actively expanding international partnerships, such as its ongoing collaboration with Kumamoto University (Japan) and involvement in multidisciplinary projects like the Liver Tumor Board, which brings together local and international experts to improve healthcare outcomes. The university is focused on advancing research, fostering global health leadership, and enhancing healthcare education.
• Culture & Work Environment: The environment is academic, collaborative, and research-driven, with a strong emphasis on mentorship, interdisciplinary teamwork, and international engagement. Virtual meetings and hybrid collaborations are increasingly common, reflecting adaptability and openness to global best practices.
• Values & Mission: MUHAS is committed to advancing knowledge, technology, and learning in health sciences, while nurturing the intellectual, social, and moral growth of its students. The university values innovation, integrity, and service to the community.
• Locations & Remote Policies: Main campus: Ilala Municipality, Upanga, Dar es Salaam. Additional facilities: Bagamoyo Teaching Unit (Bagamoyo district) for field training. Hybrid/remote work: Virtual platforms are used for meetings and collaborations, especially for international projects, but most internships are expected to be on-site with some flexibility for remote participation in meetings.

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Program Deep Dive

• Structure & Timeline: The internship typically runs for 3–12 months, depending on university policy and unit needs. Interns join the Internationalization & Convocation Unit, supporting global partnerships, student exchanges, and convocation event planning.
• Skills & Competencies Sought:
• Strong written and verbal communication (English essential; Swahili an advantage)
• Organizational and event planning skills
• Cross-cultural awareness and adaptability
• Research and report-writing abilities
• Digital literacy (MS Office, virtual meeting platforms)
• Initiative and teamwork
• Daily Responsibilities & Learning Opportunities:
• Assisting with international partnership coordination and communications
• Supporting logistics for student/faculty exchanges and visiting delegations
• Helping organize convocation ceremonies and related events
• Preparing reports, presentations, and correspondence
• Participating in meetings with local and international stakeholders
• Exposure to university administration and international higher education management
• Mentorship & Training: Interns are supervised by experienced staff in the Internationalization & Convocation Unit, with opportunities for mentorship from senior university administrators and exposure to international partners.
• Career Progression: Successful interns may be considered for entry-level administrative roles at MUHAS or similar institutions, or may leverage the experience for graduate studies or international education management careers.

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Application Success Guide

• Requirements & Deadlines:
• CV/resume
• Cover letter detailing motivation and relevant skills
• Academic transcripts (if recent graduate/student)
• Reference letters (optional but recommended)
• Application deadline: Check the MUHAS website for current cycles; typically, applications are accepted on a rolling or semester basis.
• Step-by-Step Process:

1. Prepare and submit application via the MUHAS online portal or as instructed on the official website.
2. Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview (in-person or virtual).
3. Final selection and offer.

• Common Interview Questions:
• Why are you interested in internationalization and convocation at MUHAS?
• Describe a time you worked in a cross-cultural team.
• How would you handle logistical challenges in organizing a large event?
• What do you know about MUHAS’s international partnerships?
• How do you prioritize tasks under tight deadlines?
• Assessment Centers/Case Studies: Group exercises or case scenarios may be used, such as planning a mock international event or drafting a partnership proposal.
• Standout Candidate Qualities:
• Demonstrated interest in international education or event management
• Evidence of organizational skills and attention to detail
• Proactive attitude and willingness to learn
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

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Insider Tips

• Interview Tips & Values:
• Show genuine enthusiasm for global engagement and higher education.
• Highlight any experience with international students, study abroad, or event planning.
• Be ready to discuss how you handle ambiguity and adapt to new situations.
• Technical vs. Soft Skills:
• Soft skills (communication, teamwork, adaptability) are highly valued.
• Technical skills (MS Office, virtual meeting tools) are important but secondary.
• Industry Knowledge:
• Familiarize yourself with MUHAS’s major international partners and recent projects.
• Understand the basics of higher education administration and the role of convocation in university life.
• Questions to Ask Interviewers:
• What are the biggest challenges facing the Internationalization Unit right now?
• How does MUHAS support professional development for interns?
• What opportunities exist for interns to interact with international partners?
• Red Flags to Avoid:
• Lack of research about MUHAS or its international activities
• Generic answers that don’t show motivation for this specific role
• Poor communication or unprofessional presentation

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Practical Information

• Salary/Stipend: Internships at Tanzanian public universities are often unpaid or offer a modest stipend (typically TZS 100,000–300,000 per month), but this varies by unit and funding availability.
• Benefits:
• Certificate of completion
• Access to university facilities (library, canteen, etc.)
• Networking with local and international professionals
• Start Dates & Duration:
• Flexible start dates, usually aligned with academic semesters
• Duration: 3–12 months, depending on agreement
• Networking & Alumni:
• Interns gain access to a broad network of MUHAS staff, visiting scholars, and international partners.
• Alumni often progress to roles in university administration, international NGOs, or further studies abroad.

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Actionable Advice: Tailor your application to highlight international interests and event management experience. Prepare for scenario-based interview questions. Demonstrate curiosity about global health education and readiness to contribute to a dynamic, multicultural team.