About the Organization
The United Nations Resident Coordinator System (UN RCS) plays a central role in coordinating development efforts across countries, ensuring that UN agencies work together effectively to achieve shared goals.
The Development Coordination Office (DCO) Regional Office for Africa, established in 2019 and based in Addis Ababa, provides strategic guidance and support to Resident Coordinators and United Nations Country Teams across 53 African countries.
The office focuses on advancing the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while aligning with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
A key priority of the Regional Office is strengthening youth engagement across the continent, recognizing young people as drivers of innovation, growth, and sustainable development.
The office supports initiatives that amplify youth voices in policy-making and development processes.
It also promotes digital innovation and inclusive participation to ensure that youth are actively involved in shaping their futures.
This internship offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of youth empowerment, policy analysis, and international development.
Interns gain exposure to regional coordination mechanisms and high-level development initiatives.
The role provides a platform to contribute to meaningful programs that impact millions of young people across Africa.
It is ideal for individuals passionate about youth engagement, sustainable development, and international cooperation.
Job Description
The Regional Youth Engagement Intern will support the DCO Regional Office for Africa in strengthening youth engagement initiatives across the continent.
The intern will work under the supervision of the Regional Communications Officer and collaborate closely with programme teams.
The role combines research, communication, coordination, and event support functions.
The intern will contribute to analytical work related to youth engagement in development frameworks.
Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting analysis of youth engagement across Africa by reviewing UN Cooperation Frameworks
- Identifying how youth priorities are reflected in national and regional development strategies
- Contributing to research on how innovation and digital tools can enhance youth participation in achieving SDGs
- Identifying best practices and examples of youth engagement initiatives across countries
The intern will also play a role in organizing regional events and campaigns.
These responsibilities include:
- Supporting the planning and execution of a regional youth engagement event linked to the Pact for the Future
- Coordinating with Resident Coordinators and UN Country Teams for parallel country-level sessions
- Preparing concept notes, background documents, and campaign materials
- Assisting in drafting talking points and post-event reports
- Supporting outreach to youth networks and stakeholders to ensure inclusive participation
The role includes communication and knowledge management tasks.
Additional duties include:
- Translating research findings into communication materials such as briefs and summaries
- Supporting the preparation of policy bulletins and knowledge products
- Compiling daily media headlines related to Africa and sustainable development
- Assisting in maintaining content consistency and timely reporting
The intern may also support other activities within the Regional Office.
These include:
- Organizing webinars, meetings, and internal discussions
- Taking notes and preparing meeting summaries
- Assisting with coordination across teams and stakeholders
This role offers a dynamic and impactful experience for individuals interested in development work.
Educational Qualification
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- Be enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s or higher)
- Be in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree program
- Have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree
Preferred fields of study include:
- International Relations
- Public Policy
- Social Sciences
- Communication
- Development Studies
- Or related disciplines
Applicants from diverse academic backgrounds are also encouraged to apply.
Work Experience
No professional work experience is required for this internship.
However, the following experiences are considered an advantage:
- Research and analytical work
- Youth engagement or community initiatives
- Event organization or coordination
- Communication and content development
- Experience with digital tools or AI applications
International exposure and intercultural experience are also beneficial.
Required Skills and Competencies
The ideal candidate should demonstrate:
- Strong research and analytical skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to synthesize complex information into clear messages
- Good organizational and coordination abilities
- Interest in youth development and sustainable development goals
- Ability to work in a multicultural and collaborative environment
- Proficiency in standard software tools such as MS Word, PowerPoint, and Teams
- Initiative, adaptability, and willingness to learn
Experience in partnership building and stakeholder engagement is an added advantage.
Job Location
The internship is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and requires full-time in-person participation.
This location provides access to a vibrant international development community.
Employment Type and Salary
This is a full-time internship with a duration of 3 to 5 months.
United Nations internships are unpaid.
Interns are responsible for covering:
- Travel expenses
- Accommodation
- Living costs
- Visa arrangements if required
Despite being unpaid, the internship offers significant professional development opportunities.
Interns gain exposure to international development frameworks, policy processes, and regional coordination.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should apply through the official United Nations careers portal.
The application deadline is March 22, 2026.
Candidates are encouraged to apply early to ensure consideration.
Important application notes:
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- Scanned certificates or attachments are not required at the initial application stage
- Applicants may be required to provide official documents at a later stage
- The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process
The United Nations is committed to diversity and inclusion.
Women, persons with disabilities, and candidates from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
This internship provides a meaningful opportunity to contribute to youth empowerment and sustainable development across Africa.
Successful candidates will gain valuable experience, expand their professional networks, and build a strong foundation for careers in international development and policy.