UNICEF Youth Participation Powerful Internship 2026 (Paid Internship) in Eswatini – Apply Now

UNICEF Youth Participation Internship 2026 Opens for Students and Recent Graduates
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is currently accepting applications for the Youth Participation Internship based in Mbabane, Eswatini. This six-month paid internship provides students and recent graduates with an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience in youth engagement, education, advocacy, and programme management while contributing to meaningful development initiatives.
The internship forms part of UNICEF’s commitment to empowering young people and ensuring that youth voices are included in decisions that affect their lives and communities.
About UNICEF
UNICEF works in more than 190 countries and territories worldwide to protect children’s rights, improve access to education, strengthen healthcare systems, and create opportunities for young people.
The organization partners with governments, communities, civil society organizations, and young people to develop sustainable solutions that improve the lives of children and adolescents.
Working with UNICEF offers valuable exposure to international development and humanitarian work while helping to create lasting positive change.
Internship Overview
| Position | Youth Participation Intern |
|---|---|
| Organization | UNICEF |
| Location | Mbabane, Eswatini |
| Contract Type | Internship |
| Duration | 6 Months |
| Job Number | 593642 |
| Functional Area | Programme Management |
| Application Deadline | 20 June 2026 |
Key Responsibilities
The selected intern will support UNICEF’s Lifelong Learning, Protection, and Development Section with a focus on youth participation and empowerment initiatives.
Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting the Youth Advisory Board and helping strengthen its engagement activities.
- Assisting in the establishment and coordination of a Youth Advisory Board alumni network.
- Supporting the implementation of the Youth4Change (Y4C) initiative.
- Assisting with the Youth Agency Marketplace (YOMA) programme in Eswatini.
- Supporting partnerships that contribute to youth skills development and employability.
- Assisting with activities funded under the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) grant.
- Supporting youth engagement, learning opportunities, and adolescent participation programmes.
- Documenting and sharing success stories highlighting youth leadership and innovation.
- Supporting online and in-person dialogues on skills development and employability.
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Required Qualifications
To qualify for the internship, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Education
Applicants must:
- Be enrolled in a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree programme; or
- Have graduated within the past two years.
Relevant fields include:
- Social Sciences
- Sociology
- Education
- Anthropology
- Social Work
- Psychology
- Communications
- Marketing
- Public Health
- Related disciplines
Experience
Candidates should possess:
- At least one year of relevant experience in youth participation, youth advocacy, accountability, education, health, mental health, HIV programmes, employability, or related areas.
Skills
Successful applicants should demonstrate:
- Strong analytical abilities
- Excellent communication skills
- Strong report-writing capabilities
- Presentation and facilitation skills
- Ability to work effectively within multicultural teams
Language Requirements
- Fluency in English is required, both written and spoken.
Benefits of the Internship
The UNICEF Youth Participation Internship offers numerous benefits, including:
- Practical experience with a leading United Nations agency.
- Exposure to international development programmes.
- Opportunities to contribute to youth-focused initiatives.
- Professional mentoring and supervision.
- Access to UNICEF office facilities and equipment.
- A UNICEF-issued laptop.
- Monthly internship stipend.
- Networking opportunities with development professionals and partners.
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Why You Should Apply
This internship provides an excellent platform for young professionals seeking to build careers in international development, education, public policy, youth engagement, and humanitarian work.
Participants will gain valuable hands-on experience while contributing to programmes that empower young people and strengthen communities. The experience can significantly enhance future career prospects within the United Nations system, NGOs, government institutions, and development organizations.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications through the official UNICEF Careers Portal before the application deadline.
Application Deadline
20 June 2026
Official Application Link
Apply through the UNICEF Careers website.
Final Thoughts
The UNICEF Youth Participation Internship 2026 in Eswatini is an outstanding opportunity for students and recent graduates who are passionate about youth empowerment and social impact. Through this six-month internship, successful candidates will gain practical experience, develop professional skills, and contribute to programmes that help improve the lives of young people.
Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible before the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the UNICEF Youth Participation Internship paid?
Yes. UNICEF provides interns with a monthly stipend according to its internship policies.
Where is the internship located?
The internship is based in Mbabane, Eswatini.
Who can apply?
Students currently enrolled in Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD programmes, as well as recent graduates who completed their studies within the last two years.
How long is the internship?
The internship duration is six months.
What is the application deadline?
Applications close on 20 June 2026. :::



