The African Union (AU) stands as a unique Pan-African continental body committed to advancing Africa’s unity, integration, and sustainable development. Established to promote solidarity, cohesion, and cooperation among African peoples and Member States, the AU also works to strengthen Africa’s position in the global arena through strategic partnerships worldwide. Its headquarters are located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, a city that has become a symbolic center of Pan-Africanism and continental diplomacy.
To effectively deliver on its ambitious mandate, the African Union continues to strengthen its institutional capacity, including the implementation of its organizational structure. As part of this effort, the African Union Commission (AUC) invites applications from citizens of AU Member States to join its Internship Program—an initiative designed to nurture talent and build a pipeline of skilled, committed African professionals.
Purpose of the Internship Program
The African Union Internship Program offers young Africans a valuable opportunity to complement their academic learning with real-world professional experience. It is a full-time engagement that brings together qualified individuals from diverse academic backgrounds and exposes them to the day-to-day work of the AU.
The program is designed for individuals with a strong interest in the mission and work of the African Union, as well as the ability to collaborate with people from different cultural backgrounds and belief systems. Through hands-on involvement, interns gain insight into how continental policies and programs are developed and implemented.
Beyond professional exposure, the internship aims to strengthen participants’ personal and professional skills while fostering an intercultural learning environment. At the same time, the AU benefits from the fresh perspectives, knowledge, and technical skills interns bring—making the program a key grooming ground for future African leaders.
Areas of Focus
Interns provide administrative and technical support to enhance the effective implementation of African Union programs, projects, and activities. Placements are available across a wide range of departments and directorates, including but not limited to:
- Cabinet of the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson
- Office of the Director General
- 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)
- Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS)
- Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development (HHS)
- Human Resources Management (HRM)
- Information and Communication
- Women, Gender and Youth (WGY)
- Partnership and Resource Mobilization
- New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD)
- And several other strategic offices and units within the Commission
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the AU Internship Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be actively enrolled in at least the final year of a Bachelor’s degree program or have obtained a Bachelor’s degree or a postgraduate (Master’s) qualification in a relevant field
- Be a national of an African Union Member State
- Be a full-time student in their final year of study or a recent graduate
- Be fluent in at least one AU working language (Arabic, English, French, or Portuguese)
- Be no more than 32 years old at the time of selection
- Demonstrate high moral conduct and integrity
- Have no serious criminal convictions (excluding minor traffic offenses)
- Prior work experience is not required
Terms and Conditions
Interns should take note of the following conditions:
- The African Union does not provide financial support; interns are responsible for travel, accommodation, and living expenses
- The AU will make reasonable efforts to assist with entry and residence visa arrangements
- No compensation is provided for travel
- The internship duration is three (3) months, renewable only once
- Interns must have personal medical insurance, as the AU does not cover medical travel or evacuation
Required Skills and Competencies
Successful applicants are expected to demonstrate:
Technical and Professional Skills
- Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
- Ability to use email and internet applications effectively
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Proficiency in at least one AU working language; knowledge of additional AU languages is an advantage
Core Competencies
- Clear and concise communication
- Strong writing ability
- Commitment to work and learning
- Ability to work harmoniously in a multicultural environment
- High ethical standards and integrity
Application Process
Applications for the African Union Internship Program are submitted online. First-time applicants must register on the AU online recruitment system before logging in.
Applicants are encouraged to provide detailed and accurate information and must upload the following documents:
- A motivation letter outlining what they hope to gain from the internship
- A copy of a valid passport or national identity card
- Certified copies of academic certificates
- An up-to-date curriculum vitae (CV)
- A recommendation letter from their institution of learning
Upon successful submission, applicants will receive an email confirmation acknowledging receipt of their application.