IGAD Internship Program 2025 | Regional Opportunity for Young Professionals

IGAD Internship Program 2025 – Apply Now for Regional Experience in Gender Equality Initiatives

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) is calling for applications for its internship program designed to empower young professionals from its member states. IGAD is a Regional Economic Community (REC) made up of Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda. Originally founded as the Intergovernmental Authority on Drought and Development (IGADD) in 1986, IGAD was re-established in 1996 with a broader vision to promote regional economic integration, sustainable development, peace, and security.

With a strong mission to foster collaboration among member states, IGAD works to build a peaceful and prosperous region. The organization emphasizes strengthening regional identity and capacity through long-term, inclusive development strategies. A central part of this vision includes ensuring gender equality, inclusiveness, and opportunity for all.

As part of its youth empowerment and leadership development efforts, IGAD, in partnership with the Government of Japan, is offering internship opportunities to emerging professionals. This initiative places interns in various IGAD departments, national institutions, and partner organizations for a duration of up to three months. Interns will benefit from a hands-on professional environment, receiving mentorship, training materials, and development support aimed at enhancing their leadership and decision-making abilities.

Internship Objective

The IGAD Internship Program aims to provide 14 internships—two candidates from each member state—targeting motivated young individuals who are committed to promoting gender equality in their respective career fields.

This internship offers a unique platform for youth to gain real-world experience in regional development, learn from experienced professionals, and actively contribute to IGAD’s gender and inclusion agenda. Interns will be placed in IGAD offices within their home countries based on their academic backgrounds and professional interests.

They will receive on-the-job training, professional mentorship, and a supportive work environment to sharpen their skills and apply their academic learning in practical ways—all while contributing meaningfully to IGAD’s mission of regional integration and development.

Eligibility Criteria, Key Responsibilities & Application Details – IGAD Internship Program 2025

Qualifications

To be considered for the IGAD Internship Program, applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree or be currently enrolled in a master’s level program, with the intention to resume their studies after completing the internship.

This opportunity is intended for individuals who have not yet gained significant professional experience and have completed their postgraduate (master’s) degree within the last two years.

Additional Requirements

Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of an IGAD member state.
Language Proficiency: Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of French is considered an asset.
Age Limit: Candidates must be between the ages of 21 and 27 at the start of the internship.
Core Skills: Candidates should demonstrate adaptability in diverse and multicultural work environments, strong communication abilities, and basic computer literacy.

Personal Attributes

Ideal candidates are expected to be proactive, self-motivated, well-organized, and capable of handling tasks independently. Effective time management and a strong sense of responsibility are crucial.

Main Responsibilities

During the internship, selected candidates will be involved in assisting with program and project implementation, particularly supporting gender mainstreaming efforts within their assigned divisions.

Supervision and Reporting

Interns will work under the direct supervision of a designated Project Manager and will also coordinate with IGAD’s Gender Office. At the conclusion of their internship, interns must submit a final report outlining their experience and contributions.

Stipend

Please note: This internship is unpaid. No financial compensation will be provided.

Duration and Location

Length: Three (3) months
Location: The internship will be hosted in the intern’s country of residence, though regional travel within the IGAD area may be required depending on the assignment.

Application Process

Interested applicants must submit the following documents in PDF format:

A cover letter
An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Academic certificates and transcripts
A copy of the passport or national ID (biometric page)
Contact details of three referees

Deadline to apply: 30th April 2025

How to Apply

Interested and qualified? Go to Scholarship at Uniplus Global to apply