In an era when digital transformation defines how institutions adapt and lead, internships that bridge technology and purpose are golden opportunities. The UNESCO Digital Business Solutions (DBS) Internship offers exactly that — a chance for graduate students and recent postgraduates to gain hands-on experience in ICT operations, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and more — all within the framework of an international organization committed to education, culture, and sustainable development.
What is the UNESCO DBS Internship?
The DBS Internship is one of multiple internship opportunities offered through UNESCO’s Internship Programme. Interns may be placed at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris or possibly in a remote capacity depending on the assignment. The duration of internships spans from one up to six months, providing flexibility for students or recent graduates to engage meaningfully.
Although this is a prime developmental opportunity, it is unpaid — there is no financial compensation, and interns must plan for visa, travel, and living costs themselves. Interns are, however, entitled to 2.5 days of leave per month during the internship.
Who Should Apply?
To be eligible for this internship:
- Applicants must be at least 20 years old.
- Candidates should be currently enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s, PhD, or equivalent second degree) or have graduated within the past 12 months.
- Completion of only a bachelor’s degree, without further enrollment, does not meet the requirements.
- Fluency in English or French (written and oral) is required, while knowledge of the other language is an advantage.
- Applicants should have strong computer literacy, teamwork, and communication skills.
Given the competitive nature of these placements, demonstrating relevant technical skills in cloud computing, networking, cybersecurity, or software development — along with a passion for UNESCO’s mission — is essential.
What You’ll Be Doing
Interns are embedded into one or more of these domains, gaining exposure to real institutional challenges:
- Operations, Helpdesk, Network, Server & Cloud
Tasks include network monitoring, device configuration, troubleshooting connectivity, and supporting helpdesk or cloud infrastructure projects. - Cybersecurity, Compliance & AI
Interns may contribute to AI or generative AI projects, develop cybersecurity awareness materials, conduct vulnerability scanning, and assist in compliance or security assessments. - Development, Architecture & Engineering
This includes designing or coding web/cloud applications using modern frameworks, improving user interfaces, debugging, testing, and documenting software processes.
Beyond technical work, interns contribute to project management, documentation, and collaboration across teams — gaining a holistic view of how digital capacity supports UNESCO’s global mission.
Why It Matters
In today’s fast-changing landscape, technical capacity is vital to solving global challenges. Interning with UNESCO’s DBS unit places you at the intersection of technology and social impact. You’ll not only sharpen your ICT and development skills but also contribute to building knowledge societies and advancing UNESCO’s goals in education, science, and culture.
For many, this internship becomes a stepping stone to careers in international development, ICT policy, or digital transformation within global organizations.
Application Tips & Next Steps
Prepare your résumé and motivation letter in advance, as the application process has time limits once started. Ensure your documents are in English or French and your contact information is accurate. Applications remain active in the UNESCO system for six months, and only shortlisted candidates are contacted by hiring managers.
If you’re a tech-oriented graduate or soon-to-graduate eager to merge digital skills with a meaningful international experience, this internship is an excellent opportunity.
Official Application Link: https://careers.unesco.org/job/Multiple-INTERNSHIP-Digital-Business-Solutions/780648602/
