FAO Internship Programme 2026 (RAF) — Fully Funded UN Internship for African Students and Graduates
The 2026 FAO Internship Programme for Africans (RAF) is an exciting opportunity for young, passionate Africans who want to contribute to global food security, sustainable agriculture, and development. Organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), this internship provides hands-on experience for students and recent graduates eager to apply their academic knowledge to real-world challenges affecting agriculture and food systems across Africa and beyond.
This programme not only offers valuable international exposure but also contributes directly to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the FAO Strategic Framework — advancing inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agri-food systems for “better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life.”
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About the FAO Internship Programme
The FAO Internship Programme for Africans (RAF) is designed to attract talented and motivated individuals from across the African continent. It is a learning platform where participants contribute to FAO’s ongoing projects while gaining insight into the organization’s work on food security, rural development, and environmental sustainability.
The internship provides a structured work experience in one of FAO’s many technical fields — from agricultural policy and economics to climate change, nutrition, fisheries, forestry, and development planning.
- Host Organization: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
- Programme Type: Internship
- Target Group: Young African Students and Graduates
- Duration: Variable (as per assignment)
- Location: FAO Regional Offices or Headquarters (as assigned)
- Application Deadline: 31 December 2025
Why the FAO Internship Programme Matters
This internship serves as a bridge between academic study and professional life, allowing young Africans to:
- Gain international exposure working with one of the world’s leading UN agencies.
- Contribute to food security and agricultural sustainability efforts in developing regions.
- Work on meaningful projects that align with their academic background and career goals.
- Build professional relationships with experts and policymakers across the UN network.
- Enhance their leadership, research, and communication skills in a multicultural environment.
Aim and Benefits of the FAO Internship Programme for Africans
FAO’s internship programme offers financial, academic, and career development benefits to ensure participants have an enriching experience:
- 💰 Monthly Stipend — to cover basic living expenses during the internship period.
- 🎓 Professional Training — gain exposure to international development programs and UN systems.
- 🌍 Global Networking — work with experts from various backgrounds and participate in FAO events.
- 📈 Career Development — build valuable experience for future employment in NGOs, governments, or international organizations.
Eligibility Requirements — Who Can Apply
Applicants will be assessed against the following minimum requirements:
- 🎓 Educational Background: Must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, or postgraduate degree programme in a recognized (“bona fide”) educational institution, or a recent graduate (within the last 12 months).
- 🏫 Accreditation: The institution must be recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED) by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO.
- 📚 Field of Study: Must specialize in a discipline relevant to the FAO mission — such as agriculture, nutrition, environmental science, economics, or development studies.
- 🌐 Language Proficiency: Must have a working knowledge of at least one FAO official language — English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian. Knowledge of an additional FAO language is an asset.
- 🌍 Nationality: Must be a national of an FAO Member country in Africa.
- 🎯 Age Limit: Between 21 and 30 years old at the time of application.
- 🗣️ Soft Skills: Ability to work in an international, multicultural environment with strong communication and collaboration skills.
FAO Core Competencies
Successful candidates are expected to demonstrate the following competencies:
- Results Focus: Ability to achieve objectives effectively and efficiently.
- Teamwork: Works well within diverse teams and shares knowledge openly.
- Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Building Effective Relationships: Maintains strong professional networks.
- Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement: Displays curiosity and a drive for learning.
Technical/Functional Areas
The FAO Internship Programme covers a wide range of fields relevant to FAO’s mission, including but not limited to:
- Agriculture, Crop Science, and Agribusiness
- Climate Change Adaptation
- Food and Nutrition Security
- Forestry and Fisheries Management
- Economic and Rural Development
- Public Policy, Data Science, and Statistics
- Environmental and Social Governance (ESG)
Internship Duration and Reporting
- Duration: Variable (usually 3 to 11 months, depending on the project).
- Location: Assigned FAO regional offices, country offices, or headquarters.
- Reporting: Interns will report to a designated FAO supervisor based on their technical area of focus.
How to Apply — Step-by-Step Guide
Applications are submitted through FAO’s official recruitment platform. Follow these steps carefully:
- Visit the official FAO recruitment website: jobs.fao.org.
- Create an online account and complete your FAO Personal Profile Form.
- Ensure your profile includes accurate details of your education, language skills, and work experience.
- Attach the following documents:
- ✅ Letter of motivation
- ✅ Proof of university enrollment or degree certificate
- ✅ Academic transcripts or qualifications
- Submit your application before the deadline (31 December 2025).
Note: Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applications must be submitted online through the FAO recruitment portal. Manual or email submissions are not accepted.
Selection and Notification
After the deadline, applications are screened based on the qualifications, motivation, and match to FAO’s technical needs. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further evaluation. Successful applicants will receive an official internship offer and logistical guidance.
FAO encourages applicants to apply well in advance of the deadline and to keep their profiles active for future consideration if not selected during this cycle.
Application Deadline
- Closing Date: 31 December 2025
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is highly recommended.
Why You Should Apply
- 🌍 Join a global UN organization dedicated to ending hunger and improving food systems.
- 💼 Gain international work experience that strengthens your CV and research skills.
- 🤝 Build connections with experts, mentors, and leaders in sustainable development.
- 📊 Learn how FAO contributes to agricultural transformation across Africa.
- 💪 Be part of the next generation of leaders transforming Africa’s food security and climate resilience.
Useful Links
- FAO Official Website
- FAO Internship Application Portal
- Wikihii.co.za — Global Scholarships & Internships
- Jobs Connect ZA — Join for Internship Updates
Conclusion
The FAO Internship Programme for Africans (RAF) 2026 is more than just an internship — it’s a global learning experience that prepares Africa’s youth to drive transformation in agriculture, food security, and sustainable development. With mentorship from experts and exposure to UN systems, participants gain both technical and professional confidence to lead in their communities and beyond.
If you’re passionate about solving food security challenges and building a career in international development, this is your opportunity to take action. Apply before 31 December 2025 and start your journey with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).
For more internship opportunities like this, visit Wikihii.co.za or join our Jobs Connect ZA community for instant alerts.
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