The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has opened its Internship Programme, offering talented young students and recent graduates an opportunity to gain practical work experience within a United Nations agency. The programme is designed for young professionals who want to contribute fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and research experience to FAO’s global work in food, agriculture, and sustainable development.
The FAO Internship Programme provides selected participants with the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge in a professional environment while gaining a deeper understanding of FAO’s mandate, programmes, and contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
About the FAO Internship Programme
The FAO Internship Programme is part of the organisation’s Young Talent Programmes and aims to attract motivated young women and men interested in international development, food systems, agriculture, and related fields.
Interns support FAO’s work while gaining practical experience connected to the organisation’s Strategic Framework and global development priorities.
The programme is open to:
- Undergraduate students
- Graduate students
- Recent graduates
Participants can supplement their academic studies with professional experience in areas related to FAO’s work.
Internship Duration
FAO internship assignments last between:
3 and 11 months
During this period, interns gain exposure to international development work and contribute to projects within FAO offices and programmes.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Nationality
Candidates must be nationals of FAO Member countries.
Education
Applicants must:
- Be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree programme at a recognised educational institution, or
- Be recent graduates
Age Requirement
Candidates should be:
- Between 21 and 30 years old at the start of the internship
- The internship must begin before the candidate turns 31
Language Requirements
Applicants must have working knowledge of at least one FAO official language:
- English
- French
- Spanish
- Arabic
- Chinese
- Russian
Knowledge of an additional FAO official language will be considered an advantage.
Skills and Experience
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Ability to work in an international multicultural environment
- Strong communication skills
- Knowledge of basic computer programmes
- Interest in FAO’s mission and global development work
Residence and Visa Requirements
Candidates must have the appropriate residence or immigration status in the country where the internship assignment will take place before starting the internship.
Family Relationship Restriction
Applicants with immediate family members, including a brother, sister, mother, or father, employed by FAO under any type of contract are not eligible for the Internship Programme.
What Interns Gain From the Programme
FAO interns have the opportunity to:
- Gain professional experience within a United Nations organisation
- Apply academic knowledge to real-world development challenges
- Improve research and analytical skills
- Work with international teams
- Understand FAO programmes and operations
- Build experience relevant to careers in global development
The programme provides a valuable pathway for students and graduates interested in careers with international organisations.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply online through the FAO career portal by submitting an application for the Call for Expression of Interest.
Applicants are required to provide:
- A motivation letter
- Evidence of attendance at a recognised university
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Candidates who are not selected before the closing date but wish to remain considered for future opportunities must apply again when new internship calls are published.
Why Apply for an FAO Internship?
The FAO Internship Programme provides young professionals with an opportunity to work alongside experts addressing some of the world’s most important challenges, including food security, agriculture, sustainable development, and climate resilience.
For students and recent graduates looking to build an international career, this internship offers valuable exposure to the work of the United Nations and practical experience in a global organisation.
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