UNSSC and IE launch E‑Buddy Initiative for IE Scholars in the UN System

The United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC) is pleased to announce the launch of a new mentoring initiative designed to help UN Officers strengthen their leadership skills while supporting the next generation of international professionals. 

Through the E‑Buddy Initiative with UN Professional Officers for IE Scholars in the UN System, developed within the ongoing collaboration between the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC) and IE University, UN personnel are invited to serve as mentors to students pursuing the Bachelor in International Relations (BIR)—particularly those interested in an international career. 

This initiative is founded on the principles of mentoring as a professional development relationship rooted in mutual respect, trust and integrity. Participants will engage in meaningful exchanges centred on self‑reflection, trust‑building and confidentiality—the core elements of effective mentoring. 

The programme consists of four interactive sessions of two hours each, held between March and May 2026, designed to foster productive dialogue between IE University students and UN professionals. In addition to the facilitated sessions, mentors and mentees are expected to meet virtually and individually three times, scheduling these meetings at mutually convenient times. 

All sessions will be held on Zoom. Upon successful completion of the programme, participating UN Officers will receive a certificate issued by IE University. 

Interested UN personnel are invited to contact elp@unssc.org to register for the programme by 10 March 2026.