Young graduates and university students interested in agriculture, food security, international development and sustainable food systems can explore the FAO Africa Internship Programme 2027. Offered by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), this opportunity provides practical experience across different African duty stations while allowing participants to contribute to international development initiatives.
The FAO Africa Internship Programme 2027 welcomes eligible applicants from FAO member countries who want to develop professional skills and gain exposure to the work of a United Nations specialized agency. Selected interns may receive a monthly stipend if they are not financially sponsored by their universities or other organizations.
At a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) |
| Programme | Africa Internship Programme |
| Country | Various African countries |
| Duty Station | Various locations |
| Duration | 3–11 months |
| Study Level | Undergraduate and postgraduate |
| Eligible Applicants | Nationals of FAO member countries |
| Age Requirement | 21–30 years |
| Financial Support | Monthly stipend, subject to conditions |
| Application Deadline | 31 December 2026 |
About the FAO Internship Programme
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a United Nations specialized agency working to eliminate hunger, improve food security and promote sustainable agriculture. It operates in more than 130 countries and supports initiatives that improve nutrition, agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods.
Through the FAO Africa Internship Programme 2027, young professionals can supplement their academic knowledge with practical assignments in areas connected to the organization’s mission.
Interns will work under an assigned supervisor and contribute to activities supporting sustainable agriculture, food systems transformation and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Internship Areas and Responsibilities
The internship assignments depend on applicants’ academic backgrounds and the needs of individual FAO offices.
Potential areas include:
- Agriculture and animal production.
- Food security and nutrition.
- Environmental sustainability and climate change.
- Agricultural economics and rural development.
- Data analysis and research.
- Communication and international development.
- Food systems and policy support.
Selected interns will perform duties outlined in the terms of reference prepared by their assigned hiring offices.
Benefits of the FAO Internship
The FAO Africa Internship Programme 2027 provides several professional development opportunities.
Benefits include:
- Monthly stipend: FAO provides a stipend to interns who are not sponsored by their universities or other entities.
- International experience: Exposure to the operations of a United Nations organization.
- Professional development: Opportunities to strengthen research, communication and technical skills.
- Practical assignments: Experience working on agriculture, food security and development projects.
- Networking: Opportunities to interact with international professionals and colleagues.
Is the FAO internship fully funded?
The programme should not be advertised as a fully funded internship. Although eligible interns may receive a monthly stipend, the vacancy does not guarantee comprehensive funding for travel, accommodation and all living expenses. Applicants should confirm the financial arrangements with the relevant FAO office.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants interested in the FAO Africa Internship Programme 2027 must:
- Be nationals of FAO member countries.
- Be between 21 and 30 years old.
- Be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree programme, or be recent graduates.
- Have academic qualifications relevant to FAO’s work.
- Demonstrate working knowledge of at least one FAO language: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian or Spanish.
- Possess good communication and teamwork skills.
- Demonstrate the ability to work in a multicultural environment.
Applicants must also meet the programme’s academic recognition requirements.
Duration and Application Deadline
Internship assignments last between 3 and 11 months. The published vacancy opened on 21 September 2026 and closes on 31 December 2026 at 5:59 PM.
The programme offers placements at various locations across Africa, depending on organizational requirements and successful applications.
How to Apply
- Visit the official FAO careers portal.
- Search for vacancy reference 2601980.
- Create or update your online application profile.
- Attach a motivation letter and proof of university attendance or academic qualifications.
- Provide accurate academic, employment and language information.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
FAO does not charge application or recruitment fees.
Final Thoughts
The FAO Africa Internship Programme 2027 offers students and recent graduates an opportunity to gain practical experience in agriculture, food security and international development. While it is not a fully funded scholarship or internship, its monthly stipend provision for eligible participants and professional learning opportunities make it worth considering.
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