The UNICEF Youth Engagement Program is offering an exciting opportunity for graduate students and recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in international development, youth empowerment, and global policy initiatives. Through a six-month remote internship, selected participants will work with Generation Unlimited (GenU), one of the world's largest youth-focused partnerships dedicated to improving education, skills development, and employment opportunities for young people.
Open to applicants from around the world, this internship provides valuable exposure to global youth engagement strategies while allowing participants to work remotely from their home countries.
About the UNICEF Youth Engagement Program
Generation Unlimited (GenU) is a global initiative led by UNICEF in collaboration with governments, businesses, civil society organizations, academic institutions, and young leaders. Its mission is to help young people between the ages of 10 and 24 gain access to quality education, skills training, entrepreneurship opportunities, and decent employment.
The internship is designed to support this mission by involving talented graduates in real projects that influence youth policies and development programs worldwide.
Internship Duration and Work Format
- Program Type: Remote Internship
- Duration: Six months (26 weeks)
- Working Mode: Full-time and fully remote
- Open To: International applicants
Participants will join international teams working across different regions while contributing to youth-focused initiatives from anywhere in the world.
Available Internship Roles
UNICEF is recruiting interns for two major workstreams:
1. Youth Engagement and Entrepreneurship Hub
Interns in this role will:
- Support youth participation initiatives
- Assist with entrepreneurship programs
- Coordinate workshops and mentorship activities
- Develop advocacy materials
- Engage with the Young People's Action Team
- Contribute to youth-focused campaigns and events
2. Global Solutions Hub
Successful candidates will help:
- Support UNICEF's Learning to Earning agenda
- Assist with strategic planning activities
- Conduct research and policy analysis
- Prepare technical documents and reports
- Develop blogs, webinars, and knowledge products
- Coordinate meetings and international collaborations
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
- Be currently enrolled in a graduate-level program or have graduated within the past two years.
- Have an academic background in areas such as:
- International Relations
- Political Science
- Education
- Business
- Entrepreneurship
- Monitoring and Evaluation
- Public Policy
- Related disciplines
Candidates with previous volunteer experience, internships, youth leadership activities, or research experience are encouraged to apply.
Skills Required
Competitive applicants should demonstrate:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Interest in youth development and international affairs
- Research and analytical abilities
- Ability to work in multicultural teams
- Experience creating reports or policy documents
Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of another UN language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, may strengthen an application.
Required Documents
Applicants are expected to submit the following materials:
- Proof of enrollment or recent graduation
- Latest academic transcript
- Valid identification document
- Signed recommendation letter
- Proof of health insurance coverage during the internship
Candidates may choose to apply for the Youth Engagement and Entrepreneurship Hub, the Global Solutions Hub, or both positions.
Why Apply for the UNICEF Youth Engagement Program?
Unlike many internships that primarily involve administrative duties, this program gives interns the opportunity to contribute directly to international projects and policy development.
Benefits include:
- Experience working with UNICEF and Generation Unlimited
- Exposure to global youth development initiatives
- Participation in strategic planning and policy discussions
- Opportunities to collaborate with international experts
- Development of professional research and communication skills
- Valuable experience for careers in international organizations and public policy
The fully remote format also makes the internship accessible to talented applicants worldwide without requiring relocation.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should carefully review the eligibility criteria and prepare all required documents before submitting their application. Applicants should clearly indicate whether they wish to be considered for the Youth Engagement and Entrepreneurship Hub, the Global Solutions Hub, or both.
Submitting a complete and well-prepared application can significantly improve the chances of selection.
Final Thoughts
The UNICEF Youth Engagement Program offers graduate students and recent graduates a unique opportunity to contribute to projects that support millions of young people around the world. Through hands-on involvement in youth policy, entrepreneurship initiatives, and global development strategies, participants gain practical experience while building valuable international networks.
For aspiring professionals seeking careers in international development, humanitarian work, education, or public policy, this remote internship provides an excellent platform to develop skills and make a meaningful impact.
