UNDP is now accepting applications for its 2026 Internship Programme in Addis Ababa, offering students and recent graduates a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience within the United Nations development system.
This highly competitive internship programme provides exposure to international development projects, policy implementation, climate action, governance, innovation, and sustainable development initiatives.
Selected interns will work directly with UNDP teams and contribute to impactful programmes aligned with Ethiopia’s national development agenda and the UNDP Strategic Plan 2025–2030.
UNDP Internship Programme 2026
Internship Details
Organization
UNDP
Location
Addis Ababa
Internship Type
Full-Time Internship Programme
Duration
6 Months
Application Deadline
28 May 2026
About the UNDP Internship Programme
The internship is designed to provide participants with a “whole-of-UNDP” experience, exposing interns to:
- Development programming
- Operations and partnerships
- Policy implementation
- Sustainable development initiatives
- Research and innovation
The programme aligns with the UNDP Strategic Plan 2025–2030, which focuses on:
- Prosperity for all
- Effective governance
- Crisis resilience
- Climate action
- Digital transformation
- Gender equality
Available Internship Areas
UNDP Ethiopia is recruiting interns in multiple departments, including:
- Partnership Management
- Administration & Logistics
- AI University Innovation Pod
- Innovative Finance Lab
- Communication
- Data Analytics & Digitalization
- Election Support
- Monitoring & Evaluation
- Peacebuilding
- Climate Projects
- Knowledge Management
Internship Responsibilities
Selected interns will:
- Conduct thematic research
- Assist with programme briefs
- Support SDG tracking and data analysis
- Draft reports and meeting notes
- Organize workshops and consultations
- Support digitalization projects
- Assist in communication and reporting tasks
Learning Opportunities
Interns will gain:
- Practical UN work experience
- Research and policy skills
- Data analysis experience
- Exposure to development programmes
- Networking opportunities with international professionals
Participants will also complete a Capstone Assignment demonstrating integrated learning across UNDP’s development priorities.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
Education
- Be enrolled in a Master’s programme
- Be in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree
- Be a recent graduate
- Be enrolled in a postgraduate traineeship programme
Preferred study areas include:
- Political Science
- International Relations
- Development Studies
- Governance
- Economics
- Communication
- Engineering
- Climate Science
- Software Engineering
- Law
- Logistics
Desired Skills
Preferred skills include:
- Research and analytical abilities
- Strong writing and communication skills
- Data analysis tools (Excel, Power BI, SPSS, R)
- Knowledge of AI and digital innovation
- Teamwork and multicultural collaboration
Language Requirements
Required
- Fluent English
- Proficiency in a local language
Additional UN languages are considered an advantage.
Is the Internship Fully Funded?
According to UNDP:
- Interns receive a stipend
- Financial support may be provided
- Professional training and mentorship are included
Interns must provide valid medical insurance during the internship period.
Required Application Documents
Applicants should submit:
- Updated CV/Resume
- Cover Letter
- Academic information
- Area of interest within the programme
The cover letter should explain:
- Why you want to work with UNDP
- How your background aligns with UNDP priorities
Why You Should Apply
This programme is ideal for:
- Students seeking UN experience
- Young professionals interested in international development
- Applicants passionate about climate action and governance
- Future careers within the UN system
The internship offers valuable exposure to real-world development projects and international cooperation initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the UNDP internship paid?
Yes. UNDP provides interns with a stipend according to organizational rules.
Can international students apply?
Yes. Qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Is work experience required?
No. The internship is designed for students and recent graduates.
Where is the internship located?
The internship is based in Addis Ababa.
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