Internship programme

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the internship programme at the UNSSC is threefold:
- To provide a framework by which graduate and post-graduate students from diverse academic backgrounds may be assigned to the UNSSC where their educational experience can be enhanced through practical work assignments;
- To expose them to the work of the UNSSC, and
- To provide the UNSSC with the assistance of qualified students specialized in various professional fields.
This internship programme is for the United Nations System Staff College only.

Other UN offices, funds and programme have separate internship arrangements. Students interested in internship programmes at organizations or offices other than United Nations System Staff College should directly contact the respective offices for further information.
FORMAT OF THE PROGRAMME

Internship assignments under the United Nations System Staff College Internship Programme vary in length according to the needs of the UNSSC and the availability and academic requirements of the intern. The normal duration is up to six months. Assignments are available throughout the year. The programme is normally full-time, i.e., interns are expected to work five days a week (8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.) in the office which has selected them, carrying out their tasks under the supervision of a staff member - the supervisor.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

To qualify for the UNSSC Internship Programme, the following condition must be met:
- Applicants must be enrolled in a degree programme (university degree or higher) at the time of application and during the internship.
QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates for the Internship Programme are selected on a competitive basis. The following minimum qualifications are required:
- Enrolment in a graduate-level degree programme in a development related field of interest to the Staff College.
- Demonstrated interest in the field of development.
- Language skills: the key requirement is excellent written and spoken proficiency in English.
- An interest in developing training programmes; a desire to work with and gain the confidence and respect of people with different language, national and cultural backgrounds.
- Respect for the principles of the United Nations Charter and the UNSSC Mandate.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Eligible candidates interested in doing an internship at the United Nations System Staff College must submit:
- A duly completed, official UNSSC Internship Application Form in English.
- An up-to-date curriculum vitae (resume);
- An essay (150-250 words) stating the reasons why they are seeking an internship with the United Nations System Staff College.
- Applicants must submit an endorsement from their University or Sponsoring Institution.
- Applications should be submitted to the Human Resources Unit by e-mail: recruitment@unssc.org or by fax: (0039) 011 65359 02. Information on internship opportunities is available on the UNSSC web site: www.unssc.org
IMPORTANT:

You must be able to comply with the following basic requirements before you send the application:
1. are enrolled in a university programme at the time of application and during the internship.
2. You are able to arrange your travel to Turin, Italy (this requirement only applies to applicants non-resident in Italy).
3. You are able to cover the costs of travel, accommodation, as well as living expenses of the internship.
4. If selected, you will be able to show proof of valid medical insurance coverage and provide a medical certificate stating that you are in good health.
5. You are able to communicate fluently at least in English.
INTERNSHIP AGREEMENT / CONDITIONS

The Standard Agreement is to be completed by all successful applicants.
SELECTION AND COMMENCEMENT

Only those candidates who meet the requirements of the position will be short-listed and interviewed. All candidates will be informed of the outcome of the result as soon as the selection process is finalized. Interns may begin their internship only after they have agreed to the terms of conditions of the Internship Programme. Upon arrival the intern will report to the Human Resources unit. Every effort will be made to link their academic field of study with relevant work experience, meaningful for both the office and the intern, and at the appropriate level of complexity and variety. The UNSSC provides a list of accommodation possibilities to all selected candidates. The list is regularly updated. The UNSSC will offer maximum support in arranging a fully equipped working space upon arrival of the intern.
COMPLETION OF THE PROGRAMME

At the end of the internship period, a written evaluation of the intern’s performance will be prepared and a meeting will be organized with the intern to provide feedback. Upon completion of the Internship programme the candidate will be provided with a certificate of attendance.
FINANCIAL ASPECTS

The UNSSC Internship Programme operates on a non-remunerative basis. The costs connected with an intern's participation in the Programme must be borne by the nominating institution, related institution or government, which may provide the required financial assistance to its students; or by the student, who will have to obtain financing for subsistence and make his or her own arrangements for visa, travel, accommodation etc.
FURTHER CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

The purpose of the Internship Programme is not to lead to further employment with the UNSSC but, as mentioned, to complement an intern's studies. The Internship Programme is in no way connected with recruitment for employment and there should be no expectancy of such. Interns wishing to be considered for employment with the UNSSC, even if otherwise fully qualified, are not eligible for employment either during their internship or within the six-month period immediately following the end of their internship. However, a number of interns, having completed their studies and met the necessary requirements, have gone on to further assignments elsewhere in the United Nations system.