About World Health Organization Internship Programmes, Career Opportunities and how to Apply

The World Health Organization (WHO) offers various internships and job opportunities for individuals interested in contributing to global health initiatives. Here’s a general overview:

WHO Internship Program

- Eligibility: Typically, candidates must be enrolled in a degree program (undergraduate, graduate, or postgraduate) or have graduated within the past six months. A relevant field of study related to WHO's work (public health, medicine, social sciences, etc.) is often required.

- Duration: Internships usually last between 6 to 24 weeks.

- Location: Internships can be at WHO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, or in one of its regional or country offices worldwide.

- Compensation: WHO internships are generally unpaid, but as of 2020, interns may receive financial assistance to cover living expenses.

- Application Process: Applications are accepted through the WHO's careers portal. The process is competitive, and candidates are selected based on qualifications and the needs of the organization.

 WHO Job Opportunities

- Types of Positions: WHO offers a range of positions, including full-time, part-time, and temporary roles. These positions can range from technical experts to administrative roles, program officers, and senior management positions.

- Eligibility: Requirements vary by position. Typically, roles require relevant experience in global health, public policy, medicine, or a related field. Advanced degrees (e.g., MPH, MD, PhD) are often required for technical positions.

- Location: Jobs are available globally, including at WHO headquarters, regional offices, and country offices.

- Application Process: Job openings are listed on the WHO careers portal. Applications must be submitted online, and the selection process can involve several stages, including written tests, interviews, and reference checks.

 How to Apply

1. Visit the WHO Careers Portal: Start by visiting the official WHO careers page [WHO Careers](WHO Career Website ) to explore current job openings and internships.

2. Prepare Your Application: Ensure your resume/CV is updated, and tailor your cover letter to highlight relevant experience and qualifications.

3. Submit Online: Follow the instructions for each specific job or internship listing to submit your application online.

4. Monitor Your Application: Keep track of your application status through the portal and be prepared for follow-up interviews or tests.

If you're interested in making a difference in global health, WHO internships and jobs offer an excellent opportunity to gain experience and contribute to impactful work worldwide.

Securing a job at the World Health Organization (WHO) is competitive and typically requires a combination of technical expertise, relevant experience, and certain soft skills. Here are key skills and qualifications to consider:

1. Technical and Subject Matter Expertise

   - Public Health: A strong understanding of global health issues, epidemiology, health systems, and policy. An advanced degree in public health (e.g., MPH) is often preferred.

   - Medicine: Medical degrees (MD, DO) with experience in areas like infectious diseases, maternal and child health, or non-communicable diseases.

   - Social Sciences: Knowledge of health-related sociology, anthropology, psychology, or health communication.

   - Data Analysis: Proficiency in statistical software (e.g., SPSS, STATA, R) for analyzing health data. Skills in health informatics are also valuable.

   - Research Skills: Ability to conduct and evaluate research studies, including designing studies, collecting data, and interpreting results.

   - Project Management: Expertise in managing health programs, including planning, execution, monitoring, and evaluation. Certification in project management (e.g., PMP) can be advantageous.

 2. Language Skills

   - Multilingual Proficiency: WHO’s working languages are English and French, but proficiency in additional UN languages (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, Spanish) is highly beneficial.

3. Soft Skills

   - Communication: Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely to diverse audiences.

   - Leadership and Teamwork: Ability to lead projects and work collaboratively in multi-disciplinary and multicultural teams.

   - Problem-Solving: Creative and analytical thinking to address complex global health challenges.

   - Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding and respect for different cultural contexts, essential for working in diverse international environments.

   - Adaptability: Flexibility to work in dynamic and sometimes challenging environments, including crisis situations.

4. Global Health Knowledge and Experience

   - Field Experience: Experience working in global health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, is highly valued. This could include work with NGOs, government agencies, or international organizations.

   - Policy and Advocacy: Understanding of how health policies are developed and implemented at national and international levels.

   - Emergency Response: Skills in emergency preparedness and response, including knowledge of WHO’s International Health Regulations (IHR).

5. Networking and Professional Development

   - WHO Frameworks and Programs: Familiarity with WHO’s specific programs, guidelines, and initiatives.

   - Networking: Building connections within the global health community through conferences, publications, and collaborative projects.

   - Continuous Learning: Engage in ongoing professional development, such as courses, certifications, and workshops relevant to global health.

 6. Digital and Technological Proficiency

   - Health Information Systems: Knowledge of global health information systems (e.g., DHIS2).

   - Digital Health: Understanding of the role of digital tools and telemedicine in health service delivery.

   - Social Media and Communication Tools: Proficiency in using digital platforms for health promotion and communication.

Acquiring these skills and experiences can significantly enhance your candidacy for a position at WHO, making you a competitive applicant in the global health field.