FAO Internship Programme
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is offering its prestigious Internship Programme for 2025, providing a unique paid opportunity for talented young professionals to gain hands-on experience in international development, food security, and agriculture.
Programme Overview
The FAO Internship Programme is a learning opportunity aimed at attracting talented young women and men who are strongly motivated to share their new perspectives, innovative ideas, and latest research experience in FAO’s domains. It provides selected students and recent graduates with the opportunity to supplement their academic knowledge with practical work experience in a field related to FAO’s work.
- Host Organization: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
- Duration: 3-11 months
- Location: Various FAO offices worldwide, including headquarters in Rome
- Application Deadline: January 1, 2025, 1:59:00 AM (for the current cycle)
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Key Benefits
- Monthly Stipend: Interns receive approximately $700 per month in local currency to cover living expenses.
- Practical Experience: Gain hands-on experience in FAO’s domains, including food security, agriculture, and international development.
- Professional Guidance: Work alongside experienced professionals and receive mentorship to develop your skills.
- Global Networking: Connect with colleagues from around the world, building valuable professional relationships.
- Diverse Assignments: Opportunities in various fields such as research, policy, and communications.
- Multicultural Environment: Experience working in a diverse, international setting.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Candidates must be nationals of FAO Members.
- Age: Candidates should be aged between 21 and 30 at the start of their internship (i.e., internship should start before the candidate turns 31).
- Education: Must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree programme in a bona fide educational institution at the time of application, or be a recent graduate.
- Language: Working knowledge of at least one FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish). Knowledge of a second FAO language is an asset.
- Skills: Ability to adapt to an international multicultural environment, good communication skills, and knowledge of basic computer programs.
- Residence/Visa status: Appropriate residence or immigration status in the country of assignment prior to the start of the internship.
- Family Relations: Candidates with immediate family members (defined as brother, sister, mother, or father) employed by FAO under any type of contract are not eligible.
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Application Process
- Visit the FAO career portal.
- Apply to the “Call for Expression of Interest” for the Internship Programme.
- Complete the online application form.
- Enclose a motivation letter and evidence of attendance at a recognized University.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
Note: Only selected candidates will be contacted. Candidates who are not selected before the closing date and wish to be continuously considered for an assignment are requested to re-apply to new Calls.
Areas of Work
Interns may be placed in various departments and projects related to FAO’s Strategic Framework and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including:
- Climate Change and Biodiversity
- Food Systems and Food Safety
- Rural Development
- Sustainable Resource Management
- Emergency Response and Resilience
Selection Criteria
- Relevant academic background or current enrollment in a related field.
- Strong communication skills, particularly in FAO official languages.
- Demonstrated interest in international development and FAO’s areas of work.
- Flexibility and adaptability for various tasks.
- Alignment with FAO’s Strategic Framework and UN Sustainable Development Goals.
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Tips for a Successful Application
- Tailor your application to FAO’s mission and Strategic Framework.
- Highlight relevant academic projects, volunteer work, or previous internships.
- Demonstrate your passion for international development and food security.
- Showcase your language skills and multicultural experiences.
- Be clear about your learning objectives and how they align with FAO’s work and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Conclusion
The FAO Internship Programme 2025 offers a remarkable opportunity for young professionals to kickstart their careers in international development while contributing to global food security and sustainable agriculture. This paid internship not only provides valuable work experience but also offers a chance to make a real impact on communities worldwide, in line with FAO’s Strategic Framework and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
For more information and to apply, visit the official FAO employment website and look for the Internship Programme section. For additional details, you can also check the Internship FAQ page on the FAO website.
