Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the UNSSC created ?

The UNSSC was created to support the UN reform process initiated in the 1990s. By setting up a central source of expertise in training methodologies, the UN aimed to create an international civil service with a coherent and highly competent management culture. This international civil service would provide Member States with a more effective and efficient United Nations, a learning organisation which would adapt readily to changing circumstances and challenges to provide effective UN interventions.
 

What are the aims and objectives of the UNSSC ?

The Staff College develops, coordinates and provides cross organization learning programmes with a view to:

• strengthening collaboration within the UN system;

• increasing operational effectiveness across the system;

• enhancing cooperation between the UN system and Members States, NGOs and civil society;

• developing and maintaining a cohesive system-wide management culture.

As a model of learning excellence, the College aims to:

• demonstrate best practice as to how knowledge sharing and learning can be realized;

• apply the best learning methodologies appropriate to the objectives of each programme project.
   

Who supports the UNSSC ?

The UNSSC is supported by a wide range of partners. The UN system provides a core contribution towards operating costs. Bilateral donors support it through funding and secondment of staff. Private sector partners provide funding and seconded staff and participate in joint activities. The UNSSC also supports itself through the fees it charges for participation in its learning events. It is hoped that in the future it will become self-supporting in this manner.
 

Who participates in UNSSC learning events ?

The UNSSC is mandated to provide learning for staff of the UN system. Usually these staff attend in groups such as UN Country Teams or in selected groups of senior staff at headquarters level.
 

How do I apply for work with the UNSSC ?

All UNSSC external vacancies, including internships, are advertised on the website and this is frequently updated. It contains all the necessary details for applying. In addition, Professional level posts are advertised through the International Civil Service Commission and General Service level posts are advertised in the local press in northern Italy.
 

Does the UNSSC offer recognised qualifications ?

The UNSSC does not offer academic qualifications. Its learning events are designed to enable staff to learn about specific managerial competencies with the emphasis on practical application rather than completion of academic requirements.
 

What opportunities are there for working in partnership with the UNSSC ?

The UNSSC seeks to work with a range of partners who will support the UNSSC in a diverse variety of ways. The UNSSC is ready to discuss a variety of potential partnerships with those interested in collaborating. Joint programming activities and cost-sharing for joint learning events are some of the options for UN, Government and private sector partners. The College Associates scheme, exchanges of experts and collaborative research are among the partnership efforts pursued with the academic community in the Turin area and beyond.