#UNDP Graduate Programme

[jobsbureauforkenya]

International Communications Internship at United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

International Communications Internship at United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Trending Job Info Job Identification: 25864 Posting Date: 04/18/2025, 12:38 PM Apply Before: 06/01/2025, 12:38 AM Job Schedule: Full time Locations: Beijing, China Agency: UNDP Grade: IN Vacancy Type: Internship Programme Practice Area: Innovation Contract Duration: 6 months Education & Work Experience:…

[scholarinfohub]

UNDP Internship Program 2025-26 | Apply Now

This One Internship Could Be the Career Break You Didn’t Know You Were Waiting For… What if one decision—one application—could place you at the heart of solving global challenges? What if you could work with world leaders, policymakers, and international changemakers without spending a fortune on grad school?

The UNDP Internship Program 2025-26 might be that opportunity. And the best part? It’s real, it’s open, and yes—you can apply now.

What Is the UNDP Internship Program?

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the world’s leading agency on global development, working in over 170 countries to end poverty, build climate resilience, and promote inclusive growth.

But here’s what they don’t tell you on the official page: The UNDP Internship Program is one of the most strategic launching pads for global careers—whether you’re aiming for a UN role, international NGO, or even consulting with the World Bank. This isn’t just another internship. It’s a career catapult.

Why It’s a Big Deal in 2025-26

In a world shaped by climate emergencies, economic recovery, tech inequality, and conflict, the demand for young, dynamic, and globally aware talent has never been higher. The UNDP knows this, and they're actively seeking interns who can bring fresh solutions to complex issues.

What makes 2025-26 even more exciting?

Hybrid & remote options: Interns are now placed in physical offices or virtually, allowing greater access to opportunities regardless of your location.

Wider eligibility: Students and recent graduates (within 2 years of graduation) are now encouraged to apply.

Global placements: From New York to Nairobi and Geneva to Jakarta, interns are joining real UN teams in real countries, tackling real problems.

Who Can Apply?

Here’s the surprising part: You don’t need to be a policy major or have years of experience in international development. You do need to have:

Be enrolled in a graduate school program or the final year of a bachelor’s program.

Or be a recent graduate (within the last 2 years).

Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of French, Spanish, or Arabic is a bonus.

A passion for international development, public policy, economics, climate action, digital innovation, or humanitarian work.

No prior work experience in the UN is required.

What You’ll Gain

Still not convinced it’s worth applying? Here’s what former interns walk away with:

Real UN experience working on high-impact projects (not just fetching coffee).

Access to global networking opportunities with diplomats, policymakers, and sector leaders.

A polished resume that will stand out anywhere, from embassies to Ivy League grad schools.

A foot in the door for full-time UN or NGO roles—many interns are hired back as staff or consultants.

Is It Paid?

Historically, UN internships were unpaid (yes, really). But that’s changed. As of recent updates, UNDP now offers a stipend to cover living expenses in many of its locations, especially in hardship posts or costlier cities. Remote interns may also receive support depending on the assignment. Translation: This is not a luxury-only internship anymore.

How to Apply

The application process is straightforward but competitive:

Head to the UNDP Jobs Portal

Search for open “Internship” positions (by location, focus area, or language)

Submit your CV, cover letter, and proof of enrollment or recent graduation

If shortlisted, you’ll go through a brief interview and onboarding process

Tailor your application to show your global mindset, teamwork skills, and passion for impact. They’re looking for leaders, not just learners.

Deadlines & Timeline

UNDP accepts internship applications year-round, but specific roles may close quickly. For 2025-26, some of the most popular placements fill up months in advance, so the earlier you apply, the better. Don't wait for a “perfect” moment—start now.

Final Thoughts: Why You Shouldn’t Miss This

The UNDP Internship Program 2025-26 isn’t just a résumé booster. It’s a chance to make a real impact while stepping into global leadership. Ask yourself:

Are you ready to collaborate with people from over 100 countries?

Are you passionate about creating solutions for inequality, climate change, and peacebuilding?

Are you looking for meaningful work that opens doors?

If yes, then this isn’t just an internship—it’s your launchpad to a global future. Apply now. The next opportunity could change your life—and help change the world.

[rmceducation]

What are the career opportunities after graduating from Al Farabi Kazakh National University?

Graduating from Al Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU) opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities in various fields. With a strong reputation for academic excellence, KazNU's graduates are highly sought after by employers in Kazakhstan and internationally.

Government and Public Sector

KazNU's graduates are well-represented in government and public sector institutions, including:

1. Ministry of Education and Science 2. Ministry of Healthcare 3. Ministry of Foreign Affairs 4. National Bank of Kazakhstan

Private Sector

KazNU's strong industry connections and alumni network provide graduates with opportunities in:

1. Banking and finance (e.g., Kazkommertsbank, Halyk Bank) 2. Energy and natural resources (e.g., KazMunayGas, KEGOC) 3. Telecommunications (e.g., Kazakhtelecom, Beeline) 4. Consulting and auditing (e.g., Deloitte, Ernst & Young)

International Organizations

KazNU's graduates have gone on to work for international organizations, including:

1. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) 2. World Health Organization (WHO) 3. International Monetary Fund (IMF) 4. European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)

Academia and Research

Many Al Farabi Kazakh National University graduates pursue careers in academia and research, joining institutions like:

1. Nazarbayev University 2. Kazakh-British Technical University 3. Institute of Nuclear Physics

Startups and Entrepreneurship

KazNU's entrepreneurial spirit is reflected in the number of graduates who start their own businesses or join startups, particularly in:

1. IT and technology 2. Renewable energy 3. E-commerce

Skills and Competencies

KazNU's curriculum emphasizes developing skills and competencies that are highly valued by employers, including:

1. Critical thinking and problem-solving 2. Communication and teamwork 3. Leadership and management 4. Foreign languages (e.g., English, Russian, Chinese)

Alumni Network

KazNU's alumni network is a powerful tool for graduates, providing connections and opportunities for:

1. Mentorship 2. Career advice 3. Job opportunities 4. Business partnerships

In conclusion, graduating from Al Farabi Kazakh National University offers a wide range of career opportunities in various fields, from government and private sector to international organizations, academia, and entrepreneurship. With a strong reputation for academic excellence and a comprehensive curriculum, KazNU's graduates are well-equipped to succeed in their chosen careers.

[flexispheres]

ICT Architecture and Projects Internship - Copenhagen, Denmark with UNDP

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is offering an incredible ICT Architecture and Projects Internship in Copenhagen, Denmark, providing students and recent graduates with a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience in ICT solutions that support sustainable development across the globe. Why Join UNDP as an ICT Intern? UNDP values Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, fostering a…

[meghnasharama-blogs]

From Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (SCDL) to Policy Making

Introduction:

The making of sound policies is akin to laying down the foundations of a nation. Policy Makers play an instrumental role in charting the course of a nation's future. For those who dream of influencing societal structures and governing principles, the pathway often starts with a profound educational experience. This article delves into the transformative journey of becoming a Policy Maker post an Online MBA from Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (SCDL).

The SCDL Advantage for Policy Making Aspirants:

An Online MBA from SCDL brings forth a multidisciplinary approach essential for policy formulation:

Economic Theory: Understanding macro and microeconomic indicators that guide fiscal and monetary policies.

Societal Dynamics: Gaining insights into socio-cultural elements, enabling the creation of inclusive policies.

Legal Frameworks: Navigating constitutional mandates and international laws.

Research Methods: Gathering and analyzing data to make evidence-based policies.

Ethical Considerations: Ensuring policies uphold human rights and societal values.

Unpacking the Role of a Policy Maker:

Being a Policy Maker is multi-faceted, encompassing a myriad of responsibilities:

Legislative Drafting: Designing laws and regulations.

Stakeholder Collaboration: Engaging with NGOs, businesses, and the public for input and feedback.

Impact Analysis: Evaluating the consequences of potential policies.

Public Communications: Articulating the benefits and goals of policies to the citizenry.

Continuous Learning: Keeping updated with global trends, advancements, and best practices in policy design.

Organizations & Think Tanks Seeking SCDL Alumni:

Graduates from SCDL are prime candidates for some of the most influential policy-making bodies:

NITI Aayog

Ministry of Finance, Government of India

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

Centre for Policy Research

Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER)

The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI)

Brookings Institution India Center

Council on Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW)

Centre for Civil Society

Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy

Why SCDL Prepares the Best Policy Makers:

Key elements of the MBA program that hone policy-making prowess:

Case Studies: Analyzing past policy decisions, successes, and failures.

Group Discussions: Fostering critical thinking and collaborative problem-solving.

Guest Lectures: Engaging with current Policy Makers and international experts.

Internships: On-the-ground experiences with policy research institutions and government bodies.

Ethical Governance: Imbibing principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability.

Let ShikshaGurus help you in your Education Journey:

ShikshaGurus assists you in exploring and comparing courses from over 60 online and distance learning universities. They offer free, unbiased consultation sessions with experts to guide you in selecting the ideal educational path. Furthermore, they provide assistance in finding the best university that aligns with your budget.

Conclusion:

The essence of policy-making is understanding the pulse of society and translating it into actionable frameworks. With the holistic curriculum and expansive learning experiences offered by the Online MBA at the Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (SCDL), aspiring Policy Makers are empowered to craft policies that resonate with the needs and aspirations of the people, setting them on a trajectory towards impactful governance.

[amakvitaa]

Apply for UNDP Graduate Programme 2021 for Young Leaders

Apply for UNDP Graduate Programme 2021 for Young Leaders

UNDP is launching a new and exciting 2-year Graduate Programme that will equip outstanding young graduates with the skills and experience required to kick-start their career in international development, and accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), build better futures and make a positive difference in the world! Application Deadline: 4th July…

[pinoyscientists]

Get to know Sheena Kristine Cases, data analyst and policy researcher

1) What do you do?

I crunch data, integrate knowledge, write stories using data and various information, package them, and then share them. I am a research generalist who has found some meaning in doing data management and analysis, MEAL (monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning) work, and knowledge management. I have been working in the development sector for six years now with a few more years spent on policy and academic research.

2) Where do you work?

I currently work at the U.N. Development Programme (UNDP) as a Data Analyst for Pintig Lab, a multi-stakeholder network of physicians, economists, and data scientists tasked with providing the government with data-driven systems and policy insights to help inform COVID-19 response and recovery strategy.

I also previously worked for Oxfam Pilipinas as a Knowledge Management Senior Officer and for Save the Children as a Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning Officer.

As my volunteer work, I write for Subselfie.com, an online magazine for the young generation of Filipinos. I write about faith, mental health, and some personal reflections about life in general.  I also serve at Victory Church where I tried teaching kids (our future leaders) Bible principles for a few years and also am trying my best to lead single professionals.

3) Tell us about the photos!

[Top left and right:] My grad photo and artworks. I also like to draw and paint. Back then when I had more time, I am able to finish more detailed artworks. Now, I resort to doing creative doodles. Doodles are also fun to make.

[Bottom:] Research Bootcamp at Bangkok, Thailand sponsored by Oxfam in Asia! It was an awesome week learning the Oxfam way of doing research. I have learned important pointers for writing for the public for influencing from this memorable trip, aside from the fact that I have been with beautiful and passionate people. Buddies during this trip were also fun to be with.

4) Tell us about your academic career path so far.

I studied in the U.P. Integrated School from Kinder to Grade 10. I initially took up B.S. Civil Engineering for a year before shifting to B.S. Economics in U.P. Diliman where I found more flexibility and breadth in learning (we had an option to take many electives). I graduated in 2011 with honors. I then worked for a few months doing policy work and then spent eight months working for a start-up company doing research on biofuels. I then decided to take up M.A. Demography in 2012 in the U.P. Population Institute. It was a long haul before I graduated because I decided to work to help my siblings and aging parents. Finally, in 2019 I finished my program with a Master’s thesis titled, “The Relationship Between Religiosity and Fertility: A Comparison of Five Major Religions”. I was one of the online graduates in July 2020.

I took up consultancy work when I was finishing my Master’s thesis. One memorable consultancy work was when I did data management for the K to 12 Program Transition Task Force of the Commission on Higher Education where we estimated the budget needed for the K to 12 transition. Another was when I did archival research for a PhD student in Harvard University where I got to examine letters from the First Republic of the Philippines.

The years that followed were all development research, monitoring, and evaluation on projects falling under the themes ranging from youth employment, women empowerment, and resilience.

Since the COVID-19 crisis hit the world, I have been pondering about doing a PhD. I think expecting too much from myself right now is not good for mental health. We have to go back to basics. So I just pray about it. Hopefully soon, I'll be able to fulfill that dream.

5) Anything else you’d like to share

I thank God for His grace and mercy. To God be all the glory. Take care and keep safe.

[abdelwahhabnasri]

Apply to join the 20 outstanding, dynamic and innovative recent graduates at UNDP’s new Global Graduate Programme (Fully-funded) 🌍 – Do you have a relevant Master’s degree with not more than one year of work experience acquired after this degree, or a relevant Bachelor’s degree with between 2 and 3 years of work experience acquired after this degree? – Do you dream of working in international development with UNDP? – Are you ready to contribute to sustainable development and the eradication of poverty? – Are you ready to live and work in another country than your home country for two years? – Are you a national of a country in which UNDP works to promote the Sustainable Development Goals – Do you have experience in one or more of the following: sustainable development, gender, youth empowerment, data analysis, project management, monitoring and evaluation, partnerships, innovation and creative design, finance, or procurement. If yes, apply: https://bit.ly/UNDP-Global-Graduate-Programme #UNDP #UnitedNations #university #sustainabledevelopment #internationaldevelopment #graduate #career #careers #growth #sdgs2030 https://www.instagram.com/p/CQZh4z1neha/?utm_medium=tumblr

[bioved-blog]

Agriculture Research College in Allahabad

Bioved Research Institute of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences (BRIATS) is working since last 28 years in different fields of agriculture for providing security, surety and accountability in different fields of agriculture for monthly income through the demonstration and training of need based, resource full , recent advanced, eco-friendly technologies, conserving natural resources in the field of lac cultivation, fresh water pearl culture, soil testing training programmes, nematode problems and their management, bullock operated pumping set, flour mill, chaff cutting and thresor, value addition of bio-resources and agri-waste materials with joint use of lac for domestic use, hi-tech nursery, spirulina and azolla cultivation and it’s value addition, medicinal and aromatic plants cultivation and it’s value addition, post harvest technology, IPM & INM technology, tissue culture technology, integrated fish-poultry and duck farming, smart dairy farming system and environmental conservation programs. For attracting and retaining youth in different fields of agriculture, Bioved Research Institute of Agriculture Technology & Sciences, Mohrab, Ram van Gaman Road, Shringverpur, Allahabad has started B.Sc. (Ag) courses since 2018-19 and affiliated to Allahabad State University, Allahabad for providing quality and practical education so that cent percent passed agri-graduates will be placed to get attracting salary and to help farmers in and around the college residing in different villages. In this way self confidence will be created among the farmers for getting income in many folds in different fields of agriculture. Bioved Agriculture Degree College is situated on Allahabad Lucknow highway near the well known historical and tourist place Shringverpur, Allahabad. BRIATS have well equipped air conditioned laboratories, smart class rooms, separate hostel facilities for boys and girls, agriculture farm, Wi-Fi campus, 24 hours electricity through solar, electric and generator, lush green campus, security guards, whole campus under CCTV, transportation facilities, 24 hours mess having all modern kitchen equipments, R.O. Water and medical facilities are existing in college campus which is spread over in 35 acre lands. Students will be trained in practical manners, so that they can earn by learn during the study periods also. BRIATS has introduced Scientific method of lac cultivation & its value addition, Freshwater pearl culture, Spirulina & Azola cultivation at farmers fields for the first time in U. P. Institute has published 50 books in Hindi & English and publishes 3 International bi-annual Scientific journals since last 28 yrs continuously. All these journals are being abstracted in different abstracting journals & have NAAS rating & UGC recognized journals. 31 Scientific Research projects funded by DST, DBT, ICAR, DRDO, World Bank, UNDP, NABARD, Govt of India, have been completed under technical supervision of different scientists of the Institute. BRIATS organises Indian Agricultural Scientist & farmers’ Congress since last 21 yrs continuously for the first time in India. Institute is spread over in 40 acre lands including all modern facilities of labs, smart class room, auditorium, separated Hostel of girls & Boys cafeteria, Research farm, community hall, smart dairy farm, fish, poultry, duck & hi-tech necessary farm, tissue culture laboratory, mass production of Biocontrol agents, Lac processing & ware units and value addition unit of Biorecources & agri waste material etc. BRIATS has also recognised by min of Sci. & Tech, Min. of Agriculture, Min. of Finance, Govt. of India & registered by U.P. Govt. and different reputed Universities for conducting quality Research & Development activities and place of Research for conducting Doctoral degree programme.

[jobrecruitmentportal]

UNDP Graduate Programme 2023 (Fully-funded) - Register Here

UNDP is recruiting individuals to join the 2023 Graduate Programme Pool. The Graduate Programme provides talented graduates with important exposure to multilateral cooperation and sustainable development, as well as a vital entrance point into UNDP and the larger UN system. Continue reading Untitled

[ollie603]

Helen Clark - A deeper dive into her biography

Within her own website contains a biography of Helen Clark, listing pivotal moments in the politician's life.

Childhood

"Helen Clark was born on 26 February 1950 in the maternity wing of Waikato Hospital in Hamilton, the eldest child of Margaret and George Clark. She was brought up and spent much of her childhood on their farm in Te Pahu.

She went to Te Pahu Primary School, and then was sent by her parents to Auckland to attend Epsom Girls' Grammar School as a boarder."

Early political career

"In 1968 Helen Clark enrolled at the University of Auckland in a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in political studies and going on to a Masters. After graduating, she became a lecturer in the Department of Political Studies. In 1981 she was elected as the Member of Parliament for Mount Albert, an electorate she represented until retiring from Parliament in 2009.

1984–87, in the first term of the David Lange-led Fourth Labour Government, Helen Clark was Chair of both the Foreign Affairs and Defence Select Committee and the Disarmament and Arms Control Select Committee. In this role she played a major part in New Zealand’s validation of a nuclear-free policy, which the country endorses to this day.

From 1987 to 1990, in the second term of the Lange administration, Helen Clark was a Cabinet Minister. She held numerous portfolios including housing, health, and conservation. In 1989–90 she also served as Deputy Prime Minister. In 1990, she was appointed to the Privy Council, becoming the first woman in New Zealand to hold those offices.

After the Labour Government lost the 1990 election, Helen Clark was Deputy Leader of the Labour Party and of the Opposition until 1993, and then Leader of the Labour Party and of the Opposition until 1999. Following the 1999 election, the New Zealand Labour Party was able to form a governing coalition and Helen Clark was sworn in as Prime Minister of New Zealand."

Helen Clark as Prime Minister of NZ 1999-2008

"Helen Clark as Prime Minister also held the portfolio of Arts, Culture, and heritage. During her nine years as Prime Minister, New Zealand enjoyed strong economic growth, low unemployment, and notable investment in public services. Helen Clark set clear objectives for sustainable development and climate action, two areas she is still engaged in today."

Helen Clark as the Administrator for the UN development programme

"From 2009 to 2017 Helen Clark served two terms as Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme, the first woman to do so.

She was also Chair of the United Nations Development Group, a committee consisting of the heads of all UN funds, programmes and departments in charge of development issues.

In 2013, after she was appointed to administer UNDP for a second term, Forbes named her the 21st most powerful woman in the world. She was the only New Zealander to make the list."

Helen Clark as a global leader in sustainable development and gender equality

"Helen Clark is currently involved in a range of international organisations. She is Patron of The Helen Clark Foundation, and chairs the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health, The Global Leadership Foundation, and The Global Commission on Drug Policy, and other advisory boards and commissions.

In July 2020, Helen Clark was appointed by the Director-General of the World Health Organisation to co-chair the Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response. The Panel published its main report, COVID-19: Make it the Last Pandemic in May 2021.

Helen is one of the three Presidents of Chatham House, and a member of the Board of Directors of the Club de Madrid, the world's largest forum of former heads of state and government."

The Helen Clark Foundation

The Helen Clark Foundation was founded in 2019. It is a non-profit, non-partisan public policy think tank committed to generating and promoting policy research and debate in New Zealand. The organisation’s core values are inclusion, fairness, and sustainability, and the areas of research have included productivity, perinatal and maternal mental health, sustainable cities, and health equity. .

Anyone interested in a well-functioning democracy, and the future of effective public policy in New Zealand is invited to become a member and support The Helen Clark Foundation.

[jobsbureauforkenya]

Communications Internship (Roster, Nationals Only) at United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

Communications Internship (Roster, Nationals Only) at United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Job Info Job Identification: 25950 Posting Date: 05/08/2025, 08:45 AM Apply Before: 05/21/2025, 09:59 PM Job Schedule: Full time Locations: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan Agency: UNDP Grade: IN Vacancy Type: Internship Programme Practice Area: Effectiveness Bureau: Regional Bureau for Europe and the…

[toptopic4u]

UNDP Jobs - 110982

Education: Applicants to the UNDP internship programme must at the time of application meet one of the following requirements: Be enrolled in a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); Be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum Bachelor’s level or equivalent); Have graduated with a university degree (as defined in…

[rmceducation]

What are the career opportunities after graduating from Al Farabi Kazakh National University?

Graduating from Al Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU) opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities in various fields. With a strong reputation for academic excellence, KazNU's graduates are highly sought after by employers in Kazakhstan and internationally.

Government and Public Sector

KazNU's graduates are well-represented in government and public sector institutions, including:

1. Ministry of Education and Science 2. Ministry of Healthcare 3. Ministry of Foreign Affairs 4. National Bank of Kazakhstan

Private Sector

KazNU's strong industry connections and alumni network provide graduates with opportunities in:

1. Banking and finance (e.g., Kazkommertsbank, Halyk Bank) 2. Energy and natural resources (e.g., KazMunayGas, KEGOC) 3. Telecommunications (e.g., Kazakhtelecom, Beeline) 4. Consulting and auditing (e.g., Deloitte, Ernst & Young)

International Organizations

KazNU's graduates have gone on to work for international organizations, including:

1. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) 2. World Health Organization (WHO) 3. International Monetary Fund (IMF) 4. European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)

Academia and Research

Many Al Farabi Kazakh National University graduates pursue careers in academia and research, joining institutions like:

1. Nazarbayev University 2. Kazakh-British Technical University 3. Institute of Nuclear Physics

Startups and Entrepreneurship

KazNU's entrepreneurial spirit is reflected in the number of graduates who start their own businesses or join startups, particularly in:

1. IT and technology 2. Renewable energy 3. E-commerce

Skills and Competencies

KazNU's curriculum emphasizes developing skills and competencies that are highly valued by employers, including:

1. Critical thinking and problem-solving 2. Communication and teamwork 3. Leadership and management 4. Foreign languages (e.g., English, Russian, Chinese)

Alumni Network

KazNU's alumni network is a powerful tool for graduates, providing connections and opportunities for:

1. Mentorship 2. Career advice 3. Job opportunities 4. Business partnerships

In conclusion, graduating from Al Farabi Kazakh National University offers a wide range of career opportunities in various fields, from government and private sector to international organizations, academia, and entrepreneurship. With a strong reputation for academic excellence and a comprehensive curriculum, KazNU's graduates are well-equipped to succeed in their chosen careers.

[flexispheres]

Green Energy Support Internship at UNDP, Copenhagen, Denmark

Organization: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Location: Copenhagen, Denmark Application Deadline: 27 April 2025 (Midnight CET) Duration: 6 Months (1 August 2025 – 31 January 2026) Introduction The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is offering an exciting opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in renewable energy and sustainability through…

[solomonherald]

Vois blo iumi hem important*

Samantha is one of eight United Nations Volunteers (UNV) working as part of the UNDP-UNV Graduate Initiative. She and three fellow UNVs work in the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission Office (SIECO) while four work for the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP). The programme incorporates volunteer-based solutions through the mobilization of volunteers to support the work of these institutions through research and awareness, communication, advocacy, procurement and event logistics. Launched in 2021, the Initiative is led by the Strengthening the Electoral Cycle in the Solomon Islands Project with financial support from the Australian Government. Young people all over the world are different because of their unique traditions, mentalities and environments in which they live and interact, but the challenges they face are similar, as they try to work out their directions, seek recognition and acceptance, strive to get employed and attempt to participate in the political process of elections.  William, Samantha, Peter and Jason are UN Volunteers, who work with the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission since the launch of the UNV Graduate initiative in 2021.  United by their belief in democracy and peace, they hold different roles and responsibilities but equally contribute to the Commission’s efforts to promote and uphold democracy within the electoral cycle and processes in the country.

Jason, Media and Public Relations Assistant Jason serves as a Media and Public Relations Assistant, writing press releases, developing social media content, and interacting with the media.  Jason’s work supporting many awareness and advocacy events for the Commission has enabled the volunteer family to inform the public about elections.  “Volunteering with United Nations is a lifetime opportunity, and the value of volunteering is essential. We are strongly committed to reinforcing the mandate,” Jason asserts. 

Samantha, Civic and Voter Awareness Assistant He added, “Our experience with the UN Volunteers program contributes not only to our career development but also helps us see the bigger picture and the future we want for our country.”  This is also true for Samantha who serves as a Civic and Voter Awareness Assistant with the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission Office.  Samantha advises electoral stakeholders about the challenges of boosting access to information and building the bridge of trust between voters and candidates.  One of the biggest highlights for her was helping the Commission organize the celebration for the International Day of Democracy on September 15. The open-air event hosted a number of tent towns where people could engage in activities to learn more about the history of Democracy Day and its connection to the Electoral Commission, the Office of the Political Parties, and electoral processes. The event hosted government and ministry officials, partners from civil society organizations, women and youth groups, and members of the people with disabilities (PWDs) community. Samantha used the opportunity to boost people’s knowledge about the Commission’s role.

“We created a space where students could have a dialogue with representatives from the Commission and the Office of the Registrar," Samantha describes. "This was a special scenario where young people interacted with the government to learn more about elections and the electoral processes taking place in the country.”  William Osifooa supports the Electoral Commission in the planning, development, and execution of procurement plans in alignment with the mandate and priorities of the Electoral Commission and the Solomon Island Government Procurement Rules and Policies.

William William strongly believes in effective, accountable, and transparent institutions that promote democracy. He believes that his role would be greatly enhanced with equal participation of women and men in the procurement process including vendor registration, selection of vendors, and the procuring of assets.  “Participation builds a better future,” says William.  “Even though procurement staff are the behind-the-scenes heroines and heroes, we have the power to change and build a more equal world by engaging diverse sectors of the population, including civil society organizations, the private sector, and academia in every procurement request we work on.”  UN Volunteers like Jason, Samantha, and William are highly qualified, motivated young professionals committed to serving provinces and communities in promoting peaceful elections for a peaceful Solomon Islands.  Commenting on the work of the UN Volunteers, Ms. Taeasi Sanga, one of the Commissioners of the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission, describes their engagement as a “fresh approach to electoral work” and key to “long-term involvement of youth in the country’s development.” “By opening the Commission’s doors to the youth, we are automatically getting closer to the voters. Thanks to the innovative ideas of the volunteers, we have increased our interaction with communities, which had also increased the turnout of people in the recent provincial elections.” According to Mr. Michael Burke, UNDP Chief Technical Adviser and Project Manager for Strengthening the Electoral Cycle in the Solomon Islands Project, the UN Volunteer Initiative is providing UNDP with a “unique opportunity to change public perceptions about the abilities and participation of young people in the development processes of the country.” Mr. Burke also believes that the active and visible involvement of youth in the public sphere “lays the foundation for their increased positive engagement, their social and economic integration in the communities across the country.” The UNDP Strengthening the Electoral Cycle in the Solomon Islands Project (SECSIP) supports the national authorities to conduct credible and inclusive electoral processes with the overarching objective of strengthening the link between elections and other key governance processes and institutions contributing to social cohesion and the development of a pluralistic society. SECSIP is implemented by UNDP Solomon Islands with financial support from the Australian Government. Read the full article