UN Internship Opportunity | Programme and Administrative Support at UNEP 2026
For students and recent graduates aspiring to build a career in international development, environmental policy, or global governance, internships at the United Nations offer a powerful gateway.
UN Internship Opportunity | Programme and Administrative Support at UNEP
One such opportunity is the Intern for Programme and Administrative Support position with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), based in Nairobi, Kenya. This internship provides hands-on exposure to the inner workings of one of the UN’s most influential environmental bodies while allowing interns to develop practical administrative, data management, and communication skills in a multicultural setting.
With a clear mandate to support global environmental sustainability, UNEP remains at the forefront of shaping policies, coordinating international environmental action, and bringing emerging environmental issues to the attention of governments worldwide.
This internship is therefore ideal for individuals who want to contribute meaningfully to global environmental governance while gaining professional experience in a UN office environment.
About the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
UNEP is the leading global environmental authority within the United Nations system. Its mission is to inspire, inform, and enable nations and people to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations. By coordinating environmental policy development, monitoring the global environment, and promoting sustainable practices, UNEP plays a critical role in addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and resource depletion.
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The internship is hosted within the Evaluation Office (EOU) of UNEP, a unit responsible for assessing the effectiveness, efficiency, and impact of UNEP’s programmes and initiatives. Interns working with the Evaluation Office gain valuable insight into evidence-based decision-making, accountability, and learning within international organizations.
Internship Overview
- Position Title: Intern for Programme and Administrative Support
- Job Opening ID: 268703
- Category and Level: Internship, I-1
- Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya
- Department: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
- Work Modality: Office-based
- Expected Duration: 6 months
- Date Posted: December 11, 2025
- Application Deadline: December 25, 2025
This six-month internship offers a structured learning environment under the supervision of experienced Evaluation Officers, making it suitable for students or recent graduates seeking practical exposure to UN administrative and programme operations.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The intern will provide broad administrative, evaluation, data, and communication support to the Evaluation Office. Responsibilities are diverse and designed to enhance both technical and professional competencies.
1. Administrative Support
Interns will assist the Evaluation Office’s IT and Security Focal Points. Tasks include maintaining records of official equipment, managing security gate passes for IT assets, monitoring digital storage on platforms such as SharePoint and OneDrive, and identifying ICT capacity needs. The intern will also help coordinate office space, equipment, and service requirements while supporting access arrangements for external visitors to the UN Office at Nairobi (UNON) compound.
2. Support to the Evaluation Function
A significant component of the internship involves supporting UNEP’s evaluation processes. Interns will help ensure that evaluation reports meet required formatting and presentation standards, manage correct filing of documents, and disseminate finalized reports to relevant stakeholders. They will also provide logistical assistance to Evaluation Managers by scheduling meetings, booking conference rooms, and coordinating interviews with UNEP staff. Ad-hoc tasks to support evaluation activities will be assigned as needed.
3. Data Management and Reporting
Interns will contribute to the development and maintenance of Evaluation Office databases and tools. This includes preparing datasets, supporting the Biennial Evaluation Synthesis Report, and assisting in the creation of dashboards, charts, and automated data extraction tools. Interns will also perform data quality checks, resolve inconsistencies, and help translate data into written reports or presentations for management. These tasks offer valuable experience in data analysis, reporting, and evidence-based decision-making.
4. Communication and Knowledge Sharing
Communication plays a central role in UNEP’s work. Interns will support the public disclosure of evaluation reports by uploading them to internal and external repositories. They will assist in updating content on UNEP platforms, contribute to social media posts, and support the production of communication materials such as videos, briefs, webinars, and learning resources. Interns may also provide technical support for design and layout applications and help improve communication practices to enhance information flow within UNEP and to the public.
Qualifications and Eligibility Criteria
This internship is open to motivated candidates with an academic background relevant to environmental and international affairs.
Academic Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- Be enrolled in or have completed a graduate programme (Master’s or PhD or equivalent), or
- Be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent)
Fields of study should be closely related to Environmental Management, Development Studies, International Policy, or similar disciplines. While prior professional experience is not required, academic relevance is essential.
Skills and Competencies
Candidates should demonstrate:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
- Strong organizational skills and excellent attention to detail
- Confidence in using modern ICT platforms and digital collaboration tools
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multicultural environment
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Resourcefulness and methodical follow-up abilities
Language Requirements
Fluency in spoken and written English is required. English and French are the working languages of the UN Secretariat, and knowledge of French is considered an asset, though not mandatory.
Important Internship Conditions
It is important for applicants to note that UN internships are unpaid. Interns are responsible for their own travel, accommodation, visa arrangements, and living expenses. Candidates who are not citizens or permanent residents of Kenya may need to obtain the appropriate visa or work authorization prior to starting the internship.
The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Applicants should remain cautious of fraudulent offers and only apply through official UN platforms.
Why Apply for This Internship?
This internship offers a unique opportunity to:
- Gain first-hand experience within a UN office environment
- Contribute to meaningful environmental evaluation and reporting work
- Develop administrative, data management, and communication skills
- Work alongside experienced international professionals
- Build a strong foundation for future careers in international organizations, NGOs, or public policy
For aspiring environmental professionals, this role provides both exposure and impact, making it an excellent stepping stone into the UN system.
Official Application Link
Interested and eligible candidates must apply online through the official UN Inspira system before the deadline.
