UNU Internship in Japan 2026 is now open for applications for students and recent graduates interested in artificial intelligence, higher education, sustainable development, education, and international development. The United Nations University (UNU) Internship will be based in Tokyo, Japan, and offers an opportunity to gain practical experience working on an international project connecting AI, higher education, and sustainable development.

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The UNU Innovation and Education Programme Internship 2026 is a full-time internship of approximately six months. The selected intern will support project coordination, communication, events, knowledge products, reporting, and documentation at the United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS).

Applications are open to both national and international candidates who meet the eligibility requirements.

Important: The application deadline is 7 September 2026 at 11:59 PM Japan Standard Time (JST).

UNU Internship in Japan 2026 – Quick Details

Opportunity	Details
Host Organization	United Nations University (UNU)
Institute	UNU Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS)
Programme	Innovation and Education (IVE) Programme
Internship Title	Innovation and Education Programme – Intern
Location	Tokyo, Japan
Level	Internship
Eligibility	National and international candidates
Field of Study	AI, IT, Education, Sustainable Development, International Development or related fields
Work Schedule	Full-time, 35 hours per week
Mode	Primarily on-site
Expected Start	September 2026
Duration	15 September 2026 – 15 March 2027 (tentative)
Language	English required; Japanese/another UN language advantageous
Stipend	Available for eligible interns without other financial support
Application Deadline	7 September 2026, 11:59 PM JST

What Is the UNU Internship in Japan 2026?

The UNU Internship in Japan 2026 is an international internship opportunity offered through the Innovation and Education Programme at UNU-IAS in Tokyo.

The internship focuses on an emerging and highly relevant topic: the role of artificial intelligence in higher education and sustainable development.

The intern will contribute to a project supporting the UN Higher Education Sustainability Initiative (HESI) Action Group on the “Futures of Higher Education and AI.”

The project explores how AI can contribute to sustainable development while ensuring that artificial intelligence is used in ways that are human-centred, ethical, safe, inclusive, and beneficial to diverse communities.

This makes the UNU Internship 2026 particularly relevant for students and recent graduates interested in:

• Artificial Intelligence
• AI in education
• Higher education
• Sustainable development
• Education policy
• International development
• Research and analysis
• Communication
• Knowledge management
• International organizations
• United Nations careers

About the United Nations University (UNU)

The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization within the United Nations System.

UNU conducts policy-relevant research, develops capacity, and disseminates knowledge addressing global challenges connected to the work of the United Nations and its Member States.

Its work covers major areas of sustainable development, human security, economic development, and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The UNU system includes researchers and institutes working across multiple countries and collaborates with UN organizations, governments, universities, research institutions, and other international partners.

About UNU-IAS in Tokyo

The United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS) is one of the research and training institutes within the UNU system.

Based at UNU Headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, UNU-IAS focuses on policy-relevant research and capacity development related to sustainability.

Its work addresses the social, economic, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development.

Through postgraduate education and research, UNU-IAS also seeks to develop future international leaders with the interdisciplinary knowledge and skills needed to address complex sustainability challenges.

About the Innovation and Education (IVE) Programme

The Innovation and Education (IVE) Programme promotes innovative and inclusive education and lifelong learning for sustainable development.

The programme supports evidence-based policy advice and seeks to translate global sustainability goals into practical local action through education.

The programme is closely aligned with the UN’s Education for Sustainable Development framework and initiatives supporting greener education systems.

About the AI and Higher Education Project

One of the most interesting aspects of this UNU Internship 2026 is its focus on the intersection of AI, higher education, and sustainable development.

The project supports the UN HESI Action Group focused on the Futures of Higher Education and AI.

The Action Group brings together AI and higher education experts from institutions across different regions.

The project will explore four major areas:

1. AI in Research and Development

The project examines how artificial intelligence can influence research, innovation, knowledge creation, and development.

2. AI in Teaching and Learning

The project explores opportunities and challenges related to using AI in education, teaching, learning, and academic environments.

3. AI in University Management and Administration

The project considers how AI may support university administration, management, and institutional processes.

4. AI Ethics, Safety and Inclusivity

The project also emphasizes responsible and human-centred AI, including questions surrounding ethics, safety, inclusion, and equitable access.

The project will generate knowledge products such as podcasts, webinars, publications, capacity-building activities, and dialogues at important United Nations events.

What Will the UNU Intern Do?

The successful candidate will work under the supervision of the Academic Programme Officer of the Innovation and Education Programme.

The UNU Intern will provide support in four main areas.

1. Support Higher Education Networks

The intern will assist with coordination among major higher education networks, including:

• Higher Education Sustainability Initiative (HESI)
• Promotion of Sustainability in Postgraduate Education and Research Network
• SDG-University Platform (SDG-UP)

Tasks may include:

• Scheduling meetings
• Attending meetings
• Preparing meeting materials
• Recording meeting minutes
• Following up on decisions and action points
• Supporting internal communication
• Coordinating participants
• Assisting with webinars, workshops, and conferences
• Preparing event materials
• Drafting activity reports

2. Develop Knowledge Products

The UNU Internship in Tokyo also involves supporting the development and dissemination of knowledge products.

The intern may contribute to:

• Podcasts
• Webinars
• Publications
• Online events
• Communication materials
• Capacity-building activities
• Knowledge-sharing activities

The intern may also help identify and communicate with speakers, promote events, assist with recording and editing, and disseminate the final content.

3. Support Project Reporting and Documentation

The UNU Intern will also contribute to project administration and reporting.

Responsibilities may include:

• Drafting project reports
• Recording key activities
• Documenting project outputs
• Capturing project achievements
• Maintaining project records
• Organizing documentation
• Maintaining an effective filing system

4. Other Assigned Duties

The intern may perform other duties related to the project as assigned by the supervisor.

UNU Internship 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Applicants interested in the UNU Internship 2026 should carefully review the eligibility requirements before applying.

Educational Requirements

Applicants should be studying in one of the following areas:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Information Technology
• Education
• Sustainable Development
• International Development
• A related discipline

Candidates must be either:

• In the final year of an undergraduate degree, or
• Enrolled in a graduate degree programme, or
• Within two years after graduating from a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD programme.

Therefore, the UNU Internship is suitable for both current students and eligible recent graduates.

Skills and Experience Required

Successful applicants should demonstrate strong academic, communication, organizational, and analytical abilities.

Research and Writing Skills

Candidates should have excellent:

• Research skills
• Writing skills
• Analytical skills
• Information synthesis skills

The ability to communicate complex information clearly and accurately to different audiences is particularly valuable.

Coordination Skills

Applicants should have organizational and coordination skills and be comfortable supporting:

• Online meetings
• In-person meetings
• Events
• Communication processes
• Multi-stakeholder engagement
• International projects

Communication Experience

Experience preparing communication materials is desirable.

This may include:

• Newsletters
• Event summaries
• Social media content
• Outreach materials
• Project updates

Digital and Design Skills

Familiarity with digital design and content-creation tools is an advantage.

Examples include:

• Canva
• Adobe Suite
• Similar design and content-production platforms

Language Requirements

Excellent written and oral English communication skills are required for the UNU Internship 2026.

Knowledge of another UN language is an advantage.

Japanese language skills are particularly useful, although the information provided states that working knowledge of another UN language, including Japanese, is an advantage rather than the primary language requirement.

UNU Internship 2026 Stipend

The UNU Internship in Japan provides a stipend to interns who are not receiving financial support from another source, such as a university or other institution.

The stipend is intended to partially support basic living costs during the internship.

The exact monthly amount depends on the applicable stipend rate for the duty station.

The stipend is paid monthly, and arrangements for online or part-time internships may be prorated.

Note: The position does not state a fixed stipend amount in the vacancy information provided. Applicants should check the official vacancy information for the latest details.

UNU Internship 2026 Duration

The tentative internship period is:

15 September 2026 to 15 March 2027

The expected start date is September 2026.

This is a full-time internship of 35 hours per week and is primarily based on-site at UNU-IAS in Tokyo, Japan.

Is the UNU Internship Open to International Students?

Yes. The vacancy is listed as open to both national and international candidates.

Applicants from developing countries are encouraged to apply, and applications from women are also strongly encouraged.

UNU states its commitment to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications regardless of nationality, gender, religion, ethnicity, or disability status.

Important Visa Information

Applicants should carefully note that UNU does not sponsor a working visa for this internship position.

Interns also do not hold international civil servant status and are not considered staff members under the UN Staff Rules and Regulations.

Candidates should therefore make sure they understand the immigration and authorization requirements applicable to their situation before accepting the position.

How to Apply for the UNU Internship 2026

The application process is relatively straightforward.

According to the vacancy information, applicants do not need to create a UNU account to apply.

Step 1: Prepare Your Application

Review the eligibility criteria and make sure your academic background and experience match the position.

Step 2: Complete the Required P11 Form

Applicants are required to complete the P11 form requested for the position.

The vacancy specifically advises applicants not to substitute similar forms used by other United Nations organizations.

Step 3: Prepare Your Motivation Statement

Applicants must provide a motivation statement within the P11 form.

Your motivation should clearly demonstrate your interest in:

• AI
• Higher education
• Sustainable development
• Education innovation
• International development
• The work of UNU
• The specific Innovation and Education Programme

Step 4: Answer Position-Specific Questions

Applicants will also need to answer several questions tailored to the internship.

Step 5: Submit Before the Deadline

Submit your application before:

7 September 2026 at 11:59 PM JST

Candidates are strongly encouraged to apply early rather than waiting until the final day.

Documents Required for the UNU Internship

Candidates invited for an interview may be required to submit documents confirming their education status.

Examples include:

• Academic transcript
• Proof of enrolment
• Other documents confirming current or recent education status

Make sure these documents are readily available if you are shortlisted.

UNU Internship Selection Process

The assessment of qualified candidates may include several stages.

The selection process can include:

1. Desk review
2. Competency-based interview
3. Background checks
4. Reference checks

Candidates should therefore be prepared to demonstrate not only their academic qualifications but also their communication, analytical, organizational, collaborative, and problem-solving skills.

Key Competencies for the UNU Internship

The successful UNU Intern is expected to demonstrate values and behaviours aligned with the United Nations.

Important values include:

Inclusion

Respecting people from different backgrounds and creating an environment based on dignity and respect.

Integrity

Acting ethically and following UN standards of conduct.

Humility

Showing self-awareness and willingness to learn from others.

Humanity

Supporting the UN’s principles of peace, dignity, equality, and a healthy planet.

The position also emphasizes the ability to:

• Connect and collaborate
• Analyse and plan
• Deliver results with positive impact
• Learn and develop
• Adapt and innovate

These competencies are important to highlight when preparing your application and motivation statement.

Why Apply for the UNU Internship in Tokyo?

The UNU Internship 2026 offers an opportunity to gain experience within a United Nations organization while working on a highly relevant global issue.

The internship can provide exposure to:

• Artificial intelligence
• Sustainable development
• Higher education
• International policy
• UN initiatives
• Global education networks
• Event coordination
• Research
• Knowledge production
• International communication
• Project reporting

For students and recent graduates interested in UN careers, AI and education, or sustainable development, the internship can provide valuable professional experience in an international environment.

Important Warning for Applicants

Applicants should be aware that UNU does not charge an application or recruitment fee.

UNU states that it does not charge fees for:

• Applications
• Processing
• Training
• Interviews
• Testing
• Recruitment

If someone asks you to pay money in connection with this internship application, treat it as a potential scam.

Applicants should also be careful when submitting personal information because legitimate organizational names, logos, addresses, and other details can be copied by scammers.

UNU Internship 2026 Application Deadline

The UNU Internship 2026 application deadline is 7 September 2026 at 11:59 PM Japan Standard Time (JST).

Deadline:

7 September 2026

Time:

11:59 PM JST

Applicants should not wait until the final hours to submit their applications.

UNU Internship 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions

What is the UNU Internship 2026?

The UNU Internship 2026 is a full-time internship with the United Nations University’s Innovation and Education Programme at UNU-IAS in Tokyo, Japan.

Where is the UNU Internship located?

The internship is primarily based on-site at UNU-IAS in Tokyo, Japan.

Who can apply for the UNU Internship?

Students in relevant disciplines, final-year undergraduate students, graduate students, and eligible recent graduates within two years of completing their degree may apply, subject to the stated requirements.

What fields of study are eligible?

Relevant fields include artificial intelligence, information technology, education, sustainable development, international development, and related disciplines.

Is the UNU Internship open to international applicants?

Yes. The vacancy is open to both national and international candidates.

Is the UNU Internship paid?

Eligible interns who are not receiving financial support from another source may receive a stipend to partially subsidize basic living costs.

What is the UNU Internship deadline?

The application deadline is 7 September 2026 at 11:59 PM JST.

What language is required?

Excellent written and oral English is required. Knowledge of another UN language, including Japanese, is an advantage.

How long is the internship?

The tentative duration is 15 September 2026 to 15 March 2027.

Does UNU provide a work visa?

No. The vacancy specifically states that UNU does not sponsor a working visa for this position.

Do I need a UNU account to apply?

According to the vacancy information, applicants do not need to create an account to apply.

Final Summary: UNU Internship in Japan 2026

The UNU Internship in Japan 2026 is an opportunity for students and eligible recent graduates to work on an international project at the intersection of artificial intelligence, higher education, education innovation, and sustainable development.

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The United Nations University Internship is based in Tokyo, lasts approximately six months, and requires full-time participation of 35 hours per week.

The ideal candidate should have a relevant academic background, strong research and writing abilities, good organizational skills, excellent English communication skills, and an interest in AI, education, and sustainable development.

If you meet the requirements, prepare your application carefully and submit it before the 7 September 2026 deadline.

Official Application Link

Apply for the UNU Innovation and Education Programme Internship 2026

Official application / vacancy page on Impactpool

Application Deadline: 7 September 2026, 11:59 PM JST