About the African Union
The African Union (AU) is a leading Pan-African organization dedicated to driving Africa’s rapid integration and sustainable development. It was established to foster unity, cooperation, and solidarity among African nations while strengthening partnerships with the global community. Headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the AU plays a vital role in addressing key political, economic, and social challenges across the continent.
To achieve its ambitious goals, the AU continuously enhances its operational capacity. As part of this effort, the African Union Commission (AUC) offers a structured Internship Program to provide young professionals with valuable experience and exposure to international diplomacy, policy-making, and governance within Africa.
AU Core Values
Interns are expected to embrace the core values that define the AU’s work culture:
✔ Respect for Diversity and Teamwork – Fostering an inclusive environment that values different perspectives.
✔ Think Africa Above All – Prioritizing the advancement of the African continent.
✔ Transparency and Accountability – Upholding ethical leadership and open communication.
✔ Integrity and Impartiality – Maintaining a high level of professionalism and fairness.
✔ Efficiency and Professionalism – Ensuring quality, effectiveness, and service excellence.
✔ Information and Knowledge Sharing – Encouraging collaboration and knowledge transfer.
Purpose of the AU Internship Program
The AU Internship Program is designed to provide young professionals with an opportunity to apply their academic knowledge in a practical, multicultural, and dynamic environment. This full-time internship allows participants to gain hands-on experience, build professional skills, and deepen their understanding of the AU’s role in Africa’s development.
Interns work alongside experienced professionals across various AU departments, contributing to ongoing projects, research, and policy initiatives. The program is ideal for individuals passionate about African development and diplomacy, offering exposure to a variety of fields and career paths.
Additionally, the AU Internship Program serves as a stepping stone for nurturing future African leaders by instilling essential skills and fostering international cooperation at an early stage of their careers.
Key Focus Areas
Interns will be placed in different AU departments and directorates based on their academic background and interests. Some of the key areas include:
Leadership & Governance
- Cabinet of the Chairperson
- Cabinet of the Deputy Chairperson
- Office of the Director General
Economic Development & Infrastructure
- Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment (ARBE)
- Economic Development, Trade, Industry, and Mining (ETIM)
- Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation (ESTI)
- Infrastructure and Energy (IE)
Peace, Security & Human Rights
- Political Affairs, Peace, and Security (PAPS)
- Human Rights and Social Development (HHS)
Operational & Technical Support
- Human Resources Management (HRM)
- Management Information Systems (MIS)
- Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
- Conference Management and Publications (CMP)
- Safety and Security Services
- Medical and Health Services
- Financial Control Unit
- Internal Oversight (OIO)
- Strategic Planning and Delivery
- Legal Counsel and Ethics Office
Community Engagement & Communication
- Citizens and Diaspora (CIDO)
- Women, Gender, and Youth (WGY)
- Partnership and Resource Mobilization
- Information and Communication
- Peace Fund Secretariat
Interns may be assigned roles that involve administrative tasks, research, report writing, event coordination, or technical support, depending on the needs of the department.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the AU Internship Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
✔ Be a citizen of an African Union Member State.
✔ Be currently enrolled in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree program OR have recently graduated with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field.
✔ Be under 32 years of age at the time of selection.
✔ Demonstrate proficiency in at least one of the AU’s official working languages (Arabic, English, French, Portuguese, Spanish, or Kiswahili).
✔ Have a strong moral character with high standards of integrity.
✔ Have no criminal record (excluding minor traffic violations).
✔ Possess a keen interest in African affairs, development, and policy-making.
✔ Prior work experience is not required, making this an excellent opportunity for fresh graduates.
Terms & Conditions
Interns should take note of the following terms and conditions before applying:
✔ Financial Responsibility: The AU does not provide financial support for interns. Interns are responsible for their travel expenses, accommodation, and living costs during the internship.
✔ Visa Assistance: The AU will assist interns in obtaining entry and residence visas where necessary.
✔ No Travel Compensation: Interns are not entitled to travel allowances or reimbursements.
✔ Duration of Internship: The program lasts for three (3) months, with the possibility of a one-time extension.
✔ Medical Insurance: Interns must arrange their own medical insurance coverage for the duration of the internship.
Required Skills & Competencies
To thrive in the AU Internship Program, applicants should possess the following skills:
✔ Technical Skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Comfortable using email and internet applications for research and communication.
✔ Interpersonal & Communication Skills
- Strong verbal and written communication abilities.
- Ability to interact effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.
- A commitment to teamwork and collaboration.
✔ Core Competencies
- Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely.
- Strong ethical standards and integrity.
- Ability to work harmoniously in a multicultural environment.
- Dedication to professionalism and excellence.
Application Process
Interested candidates must submit their applications online through the AU’s official platform. The application process requires the following:
Step 1: Registration
- First-time applicants must create an online account before submitting their application.
Step 2: Submit Required Documents
- Motivation Letter – Explain your interest in the internship and what you hope to gain.
- Valid Passport or National ID Copy – Proof of nationality.
- Certified Academic Certificates – Proof of educational qualifications.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – A well-structured resume outlining educational and professional background.
- Recommendation Letter – From your university or academic institution.
Step 3: Application Confirmation
- Upon submission, applicants will receive a confirmation email acknowledging receipt of their application.
Conclusion
The AU Internship Program is a gateway for young Africans to develop their careers while contributing to the progress of the continent. It offers unparalleled exposure to international governance, policy development, and administrative functions within the African Union.
If you are passionate about Africa’s development and eager to gain firsthand experience in diplomacy and policymaking, this program is for you!
Apply now and be part of Africa’s transformation!
0 Comments