The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has announced a new Call for Expressions of Interest for its Internship Programme at FAO Headquarters (HQ) in Rome, Italy. The initiative provides young professionals and students with an opportunity to gain practical experience within one of the UN’s leading agencies working to eradicate global hunger and strengthen sustainable food systems. The internship programme, identified under vacancy announcement 2600026, is part of FAO’s broader effort to engage emerging talent in international development, agriculture, and policy-driven work aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Internship Programme Overview The FAO Headquarters Internship Programme is designed to attract highly motivated young individuals who are eager to contribute fresh ideas, academic knowledge, and innovative perspectives to the organization’s global mission. Based in Rome, Italy, interns will work directly within FAO headquarters units, contributing to the organization’s strategic and operational work across multiple technical and policy areas. The programme supports FAO’s mandate to achieve food security, improved nutrition, and sustainable agrifood systems, while providing participants with valuable exposure to international public service. Key Internship Details Applicants interested in the FAO Headquarters internship should take note of the following essential information: Vacancy Number: 2600026 Programme Type: Internship Programme – Call for Expressions of Interest Organizational Unit: FAO Headquarters (HQ) Primary Location: Rome, Italy Duration: 3 to 11 months Job Type: Internship Application Deadline: 25 August 2026 at 11:59 PM Posting Date: 25 January 2026 The internship duration may vary depending on the assignment and the needs of the hiring office. About FAO and Its Global Mission The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations leads global efforts to end hunger, improve nutrition, and ensure access to sufficient, safe, and high-quality food for all. With 195 member states and operations in more than 130 countries, FAO plays a central role in shaping global agricultural policy and supporting sustainable development. Through its internship programme, FAO aims to: Provide practical learning opportunities in international development Support capacity building for young professionals Encourage innovation in agriculture and food systems Contribute to the achievement of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Interns at headquarters contribute directly to FAO’s strategic framework focused on building more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. Internship Structure and Responsibilities Interns placed at FAO Headquarters will work under the supervision of assigned FAO staff members and contribute to tasks defined in Terms of Reference (TOR) prepared by the hiring office. Typical responsibilities may include: Supporting technical research, policy analysis, and programme development Assisting in documentation, reporting, and knowledge management activities Contributing to communication and outreach initiatives Participating in project implementation and coordination tasks Supporting cross-functional teams across FAO divisions Assignments are tailored to match the intern’s academic background and the operational needs of the organization. Eligibility and Minimum Requirements FAO has established strict eligibility criteria to ensure applicants meet the programme’s academic and professional standards. Candidates must: Be enrolled in or have recently graduated from an undergraduate or graduate programme at a recognized institution listed in the UNESCO/IAU World Higher Education Database (WHED) Have academic specialization relevant to FAO’s mission, such as agriculture, economics, environmental science, international relations, communications, or related fields Demonstrate working knowledge of at least one FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish) Be between 21 and 30 years of age Be nationals of FAO member countries Be able to work in an international, multicultural environment with strong communication skills Knowledge of a second FAO language is considered an advantage. Core Competencies and Skills FAO expects interns to demonstrate strong professional competencies aligned with its institutional values. These include: Results-oriented mindset Ability to work effectively in teams Strong communication skills Capacity to build and maintain professional relationships Commitment to knowledge sharing and continuous improvement Technical skills should align with the candidate’s field of study and the needs of the assigned FAO unit. Organizational Values and Ethical Standards FAO maintains strict ethical and professional standards across all its operations. All interns and staff are expected to uphold the organization’s core values: Commitment to FAO’s mission Respect for diversity and inclusion Integrity and transparency The organization enforces a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct, including harassment, discrimination, abuse of authority, and exploitation. All selected candidates undergo background and reference checks. Important Application Conditions Applicants should carefully review the following conditions before applying: No application or processing fees are charged at any stage of recruitment Applications must be submitted through the official FAO recruitment portal only Incomplete applications will not be considered Candidates previously selected for an FAO internship are not eligible to reapply A monthly stipend may be provided unless externally sponsored Applicants must have valid residency or immigration status in the country of assignment Candidates are required to submit a complete online profile including academic qualifications, language skills, employment history (if applicable), and a motivation letter. How to Apply To apply for the FAO Headquarters Internship Programme, candidates must: Create and complete a profile on the FAO recruitment portal Upload required documents, including proof of academic enrollment or qualifications Submit a motivation letter and supporting information Ensure all details are accurate before submission Only applications submitted through the official FAO system will be considered. Deadline for Applications The final deadline for submission is: 25 August 2026 at 11:59 PM Late or incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Building the Next Generation of Global Food System Professionals Through its Headquarters Internship Programme in Rome, FAO continues to invest in developing young professionals who will shape the future of global food systems, agriculture, and sustainable development. The programme provides a direct pathway into international public service, offering participants the opportunity to contribute to high-level policy work and global initiatives aimed at ending hunger and building resilient agrifood systems worldwide. APPLY HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding. JOIN GSO WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW See This Channel For Daily Jobs in South Africa