About The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations Paid Internship Programs. Check out on how to Apply and Application Processes.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations offers internship programs to provide students and recent graduates with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in FAO's work related to ending hunger, improving agriculture, and achieving food security. Here's a detailed overview of the program:

Program Overview

The FAO Internship Program is designed for highly motivated individuals who want to contribute to FAO's mandate and objectives. Interns work in various fields, including agriculture, food security, economics, environmental sciences, and development.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the FAO Internship Program, you need to meet the following requirements:

1. Education:

Be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or equivalent) or have recently graduated.

Areas of study should be relevant to FAO’s work.

2. Languages:

Working knowledge of at least one of FAO's official languages (English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian). Knowledge of a second official language is an asset.

3. Age:

Be between 21 and 30 years old at the start of the internship.

4. Residency:

Candidates must be nationals of FAO member countries.

5. Skills:

Demonstrated interest in FAO’s mandate.

Ability to work in a team-oriented, multicultural environment.

6. Other Requirements:

No close family relationship with FAO staff (e.g., parent, sibling).

Key Details

Duration:

Internships typically last between 3 to 11 months.

Location:

Internships are available at FAO Headquarters in Rome, Italy, Africa, and in FAO regional, subregional, and country offices.

Stipend:

A monthly stipend is provided, which may vary based on the location of the internship.

Application Process

1. Check Openings:

Visit the FAO Careers Portal: FAO Internship Programs

2. Create an Account:

Register on the FAO iRecruitment platform and create a profile.

3. Submit Application:

Apply for open internship vacancies. Ensure your application includes a CV, cover letter, and supporting documents.

4. Selection Process:

Applications are reviewed by FAO’s internship coordination team. Shortlisted candidates are contacted for further steps.

Benefits of the FAO Internship Program

Gain practical experience in international development and agriculture-related projects.

Opportunity to collaborate with experts on global initiatives.

Expand professional networks within the UN system and beyond.

Tips for Success

Tailor your application to highlight skills and experiences relevant to FAO’s goals.

Showcase knowledge of global agricultural or food security challenges in your cover letter.

Demonstrate adaptability to a multicultural work environment.

The official FAO career website is: FAO Career Website .

What You Can Find on the FAO Career Website:

1. Job and Internship Opportunities:

Listings of current vacancies for professionals, consultants, interns, and other positions.

2. Information About FAO Careers:

Details on working with FAO, including the organization’s values, goals, and benefits.

3. Application Process:

Guidance on how to apply for jobs and internships through the FAO iRecruitment platform.

4. Youth Opportunities:

Programs tailored for young professionals, such as internships, fellowships, and junior professional positions.

How to Succeed in Securing a Job with FAO

Securing a job with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) requires careful preparation, strong qualifications, and an understanding of the organization's goals. Here are key steps to increase your chances:

1. Understand FAO’s Mission and Values

Familiarize yourself with FAO's mission to combat hunger, improve food security, and promote sustainable agriculture.

Review FAO's Strategic Framework to understand their key focus areas (e.g., food systems, climate change, rural development).

2. Tailor Your Application

Review the Job Description: Highlight relevant experiences, skills, and achievements in your CV and cover letter. Align them with the job requirements.

Use Keywords: Include terms and skills mentioned in the job posting to make your application stand out.

Showcase Impact: Mention specific projects or experiences where you contributed to sustainable development, agriculture, or humanitarian initiatives.

3. Gain Relevant Experience

Work or volunteer with organizations that address agriculture, food security, or development.

Join FAO internships or volunteer programs to gain first-hand experience.

4. Build Technical and Soft Skills

Technical Skills: Knowledge of agriculture, economics, climate science, data analysis, or program management.

Language Skills: Proficiency in one or more of FAO’s official languages (English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Russian) is essential.

Soft Skills: Emphasize teamwork, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication.

5. Network Strategically

Attend FAO-hosted events, webinars, or international conferences.

Connect with current or former FAO employees on LinkedIn for insights and mentorship.

6. Master the FAO Recruitment Process

Online Application: Ensure your application is complete, well-written, and submitted before the deadline.

Assessments: Be prepared for online assessments or written exams that evaluate technical knowledge and competencies.

Interviews: Demonstrate your passion for FAO’s work, highlight relevant experience, and prepare for competency-based questions.

Tips for Success in FAO Interviews

Use the STAR Method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to answer behavioral questions.

Show your knowledge of FAO’s global programs and recent initiatives.

Provide examples of working in multicultural environments or remote teams.

Impact of Working with FAO

1. Personal Development:

Gain hands-on experience tackling global issues like hunger, climate change, and rural poverty.

Develop leadership, project management, and technical skills through international exposure.

2. Global Impact:

Contribute to programs that directly affect food security and improve the livelihoods of millions worldwide.

Work on policy-making, disaster response, or innovative agricultural technologies.

3. Professional Growth:

Build a career in international development with access to a global network of experts.

Collaborate with governments, NGOs, and private sector organizations on transformative projects.

4. Community Impact:

Play a vital role in implementing projects that enhance food production, sustainability, and resilience to climate change.

Help communities achieve self-reliance through capacity-building initiatives.