UNESCO Internship Opportunity: Digital Business Solutions (Remote)

Eugen4 weeks ago

4 minutes read

Duty Station: Paris Headquarters or remote
Type of Contract: Internship
Duration of Contract: 1 to 6 months
Recruitment Open To: External Candidates
Application Deadline: December 31, 2025 (Midnight Paris Time)
UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism

A Unique Opportunity with UNESCO

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a venerable institution, dedicated to fostering peace, sustainable development, and international collaboration through education, science, culture, and communication. As we navigate an increasingly digital world, the importance of integrating technology into our core missions cannot be overstated. The Digital Bureau Solutions (DBS) at UNESCO plays a pivotal role in this integration. It is responsible for overseeing ICT operations, implementing UNESCO’s digital strategy, and enabling effective program delivery through resilient infrastructure and robust service management.

In this context, UNESCO is opening its doors to talented individuals through the Digital Business Solutions internship program. This initiative aims to bring together motivated graduate students, postgraduates, and recent graduates who are passionate about technology and its potential to shape a better future.

Overview of the Functions of the Post

The Digital Bureau Solutions is tasked with three primary objectives:

Integrated Project and Knowledge Management: Ensuring proper codification of project management processes to support efficient program delivery.
Resilient IT Infrastructure: Providing best-in-class IT services to facilitate effective operations.
Cybersecurity and Risk Management: Strengthening digital risk management protocols to protect digital assets.

As an intern in the Digital Bureau Solutions team, you will have the chance to contribute to these objectives while gaining invaluable experience in a leading international organization.

Positions and Tasks

Interns will assist in various projects within the Bureau and can choose from a diverse range of tasks within three domains:

1. Operations, Helpdesk, Network, Server, and Cloud

Network Monitoring and Configuration: Help monitor network performance, diagnose issues, and gain experience in configuring network devices like routers and switches.
Cloud Platform Familiarity: Work on cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, and assist in tasks related to resource setup and migration.
Server and Network Troubleshooting: Learn to identify and resolve network-related problems.
User Support: Provide basic troubleshooting assistance, including password resets and account creation, while also learning about helpdesk systems.
Documentation: Maintain and update essential documentation, such as network diagrams and inventories.

2. Cybersecurity, Compliance, and AI

AI Deployment: Support the deployment and testing of AI and Generative AI models developed by UNESCO.
Cybersecurity Workshops: Create engaging content to educate employees about cybersecurity threats and safe online practices.
Phishing Simulations: Coordinate training sessions to help staff recognize and respond to phishing attempts.
Security Policy Review: Participate in reviewing current cybersecurity policies and lead discussions to improve them.
Vulnerability Scanning Analysis: Evaluate reports on potential vulnerabilities to help understand and mitigate risks.

3. Development, Architecture, and Engineering

Application Development: Assist in designing and coding web and cloud-based applications using various technologies, including Salesforce and JavaScript.
UI/UX Enhancement: Collaborate on improving the user interface of existing applications based on user feedback.
Data Visualization and Reporting: Help preprocess, clean, and visualize data, creating interactive dashboards using tools like Power BI.
Debugging and Quality Assurance: Participate in testing and identifying bugs within applications.
Documentation: Document application features and development processes for future reference and knowledge sharing.

Learning Objectives

Interns will have the opportunity to achieve several key learning outcomes during their time at UNESCO:

Knowledge of Project Management: Gain insights into how UNESCO operates and how projects are managed.
Skill Development: Improve technical and soft skills, including writing, teamwork, and communication.
Interpersonal Skills: Build relationships in a multicultural environment.
Research and Analysis: Develop the capacity to analyze complex information and communicate findings effectively.

Required Qualifications

Age: Applicants must be at least 20 years old.
Academic Background: You should be currently enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s degree, PhD) or have recently graduated. Candidates who completed a bachelor’s degree but are not enrolled in a graduate program are not eligible.
Language Skills: Strong command of English or French is required; knowledge of the other language is an asset.
Computer Proficiency: Competence in office software and computer systems.
Team Player: Ability to work collaboratively in an international setting and adapt to various cultural contexts.
Communication Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential.

Benefits and Entitlements

Interns are entitled to 2.5 days of leave per month during their internship, providing an opportunity for personal time amidst a challenging work environment.

Selection and Recruitment Process

The UNESCO Internship Programme is open for applications in January and July each year. Candidates can apply to vacancies that align with their expertise. Successful applicants will be placed in a talent pool and may be assessed and selected by relevant hiring managers. Please note that there is no guarantee of placement due to high competition.

Important Considerations

Keep your motivation letter and CV ready before starting the application, as you will have a limited time to complete it.
Ensure your contact details are valid for six months post-application.
The application should be submitted in English or French, with unofficial translations provided if needed.
Please be aware that internships are unpaid, and placement is not guaranteed, although candidates can expect that their applications will be thoroughly assessed.

Conclusion

The UNESCO Digital Business Solutions internship offers an incredible opportunity to gain practical experience in the dynamic landscape of digital transformation within an international organization. If you are a driven individual with a passion for technology and a desire to contribute to meaningful projects, consider applying before the December 31, 2025 deadline. Join UNESCO and make a difference in the global community through your contributions to digital solutions that promote education, science, and culture. This is your chance to expand your skills, gain appropriate experience, and become part of a vital mission that impacts lives around the world. Don’t miss out; apply today!