The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY: FAO INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME FOR AFRICA (RAF)

ESSENTIAL JOB DETAILS

Position: Internship Programme for Africa (RAF)
Location: Various Locations
Type of Job: Internship
Duration: 3 to 11 months
Application Deadline: 26 August 2025
Organization: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
Job Type: Internship

INTRODUCTION

Are you passionate about global food security, sustainable agriculture, and making a tangible impact on communities across Africa? The FAO Internship Programme for Africa (RAF) offers young professionals and students an unparalleled opportunity to gain hands-on experience within the world’s leading organization dedicated to eliminating hunger and ensuring food security for all. This internship provides an engaging platform for learning, skill-building, and direct involvement in international development initiatives.

The programme is ideal for recent graduates or students currently enrolled in higher education institutions who are eager to apply their academic knowledge to real-world challenges in agriculture, food systems, environmental sustainability, and related fields.

ABOUT THE FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION (FAO)

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized UN agency that leads global efforts to defeat hunger and promote sustainable agriculture. With operations in over 130 countries and a membership of 195 nations, FAO works to ensure that people worldwide have regular access to nutritious food, leading active and healthy lives.

Through collaborative projects, cutting-edge research, and innovative policy solutions, FAO supports governments, communities, and individuals in transforming agri-food systems for greater efficiency, resilience, and inclusivity.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

As an intern with FAO, you will contribute to a variety of projects aligned with the organization’s mission and objectives. Specific responsibilities will depend on your assigned department but may include:

Conducting research and analysis related to FAO’s initiatives in food security, sustainable agriculture, and climate resilience.
Assisting in the development of reports, presentations, and policy briefs.
Supporting data collection, monitoring, and evaluation activities.
Engaging in field projects and liaising with stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and private sector partners.
Collaborating with FAO teams to design and implement capacity-building programs.
Participating in team meetings, conferences, and workshops to gain exposure to high-level discussions on global agricultural issues.
Contributing to knowledge-sharing initiatives and assisting in the dissemination of research findings.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

To be considered for the FAO Internship Programme for Africa, candidates must meet the following requirements:

Educational Background: Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree programme in a relevant field OR a recent graduate from an accredited university. FAO only recognizes educational institutions listed in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).
Relevant Fields of Study: Agriculture, Economics, Environmental Science, Food Security, Social Sciences, International Development, or any field related to FAO’s mission.
Language Proficiency: Working knowledge of at least one FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish). Proficiency in an additional FAO language is an asset.
Nationality: Applicants must be nationals of FAO member states.
Age Requirement: Candidates should be between 21 and 30 years old.
Adaptability: Strong ability to work in an international, multicultural environment.
Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

FAO CORE COMPETENCIES

Results Focus: Commitment to achieving high-quality outcomes.
Teamwork: Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds.
Communication: Clear articulation of ideas and findings.
Building Effective Relationships: Capacity to engage constructively with stakeholders.
Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement: Willingness to learn and contribute to FAO’s mission.

COMPANY CULTURE AND VALUES

At FAO, we foster an environment that champions inclusivity, innovation, and ethical responsibility. Our core values include:

Commitment to Excellence: Striving for impact-driven results in global food security.
Respect for Diversity: Encouraging collaboration across cultures and disciplines.
Integrity and Transparency: Maintaining the highest ethical standards in all our endeavors.
Sustainability and Responsibility: Implementing solutions that create long-term positive change.

FAO strongly encourages applications from qualified female candidates, nationals from underrepresented Member States, and persons with disabilities.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply for this internship, follow these steps:

Visit the FAO Recruitment Website: Go to FAO Jobs Portal.
Create an Online Profile: Ensure that your profile includes all relevant educational qualifications, work experience, and language skills.
Attach Supporting Documents: Upload your CV, motivation letter, and evidence of university enrollment or academic qualifications.
Submit Your Application: Applications will only be accepted through the official FAO recruitment portal. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Screening Process: Your application will be reviewed based on the information provided in your profile. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

For further inquiries, visit the FAO Help Desk: FAO Support.

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INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY: FAO INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME FOR AFRICA (RAF) – 2025