The UNDP Student Ambassador Programme is a global youth engagement initiative designed to empower students to promote the mission, values, and career opportunities of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The programme provides a unique platform for students to develop leadership, communication, and advocacy skills while contributing to sustainable development efforts aligned with the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
For the upcoming Cohort 4, UNDP will select up to 400 students from up to 30 countries, representing more than 100 global universities, to serve as Student Ambassadors from February to August 2026.
Programme Vision
The UNDP Student Ambassador Programme encourages young people to reflect on the future they want to see in their communities and countries, including how to address challenges such as inequality, climate change, education access, decent work, gender equality, and inclusive growth.
Ambassadors act as connectors between UNDP and their academic communities, inspiring peers to explore careers in international development and engage with global issues that shape people, prosperity, and the planet.
Who UNDP Is Looking For
Applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in sustainable development and youth leadership. Ideal candidates include:
- Current undergraduate or graduate students
- Advocates for sustainable development and social impact
- Individuals passionate about communication, storytelling, and social media
- Students fluent in English
- Motivated individuals excited to represent and promote UNDP for one academic semester
Experience in the following areas is considered an asset:
- Event planning and campus engagement
- Public speaking and facilitation
- Digital content creation
- Community organising or student leadership
Role and Responsibilities
UNDP Student Ambassadors commit approximately two hours per week and engage in activities such as:
1. Promoting UNDP as an Employer of Choice
- Raising awareness of UNDP’s mandate, values, and career pathways
- Sharing information about UNDP opportunities with peers and faculty
2. Engagement and Outreach
- Organising or participating in career fairs, workshops, and information sessions
- Collaborating with student organisations and career services
- Integrating SDG-related discussions into campus activities
3. Communication and Digital Advocacy
- Sharing UNDP news, campaigns, and resources through social media and university channels
- Creating content such as posts, photos, videos, and short features highlighting UNDP’s impact and work
4. Networking and Representation
- Building relationships with universities, student groups, and local communities
- Participating in UNDP events where applicable
- Representing student perspectives and providing feedback to UNDP teams
5. Capacity Building
- Attending online trainings and workshops organised by UNDP
- Sharing knowledge gained from the programme with peers
- Developing a deeper understanding of global development issues and UN career pathways
What Participants Gain
Through the programme, Student Ambassadors benefit from:
- Membership in a global community of young leaders passionate about development
- Professional exposure to UNDP and insights into the UN system
- Opportunities to network with UNDP staff and development practitioners
- Access to online learning resources and training
- Enhanced communication, leadership, and advocacy skills
- Strengthened personal branding and an improved CV
- A Certificate of Completion upon successful participation
- Potential pathways to future UN and development opportunities
Programme Impact
Previous cohorts demonstrate the programme’s growing global reach and influence:
- Over 600 ambassadors from 100+ universities across 25 countries
- Increased student-led SDG events, campus campaigns, and outreach activities
- Strong engagement with UNDP Country Offices, including onboarding sessions and learning exchanges
- Meaningful contributions to UNDP’s employer branding and youth engagement strategies
- High levels of peer inspiration and local impact driven by student leadership
Cohort 4 will continue building on this momentum, strengthening youth participation and amplifying student voices in sustainable development.
Application Process
Interested candidates are required to:
- Submit a resume
- Provide a short cover letter outlining motivation and relevant experience
- Apply through the designated local UNDP focal point
Successful applicants will join a transformative, global learning journey and contribute to shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Why Apply?
The UNDP Student Ambassador Programme is not an internship. It is a leadership and advocacy platform that enables students to:
- Act as change-makers within their communities
- Gain real-world exposure to international development
- Inspire peers to engage with the SDGs
- Begin a life-changing journey with UNDP
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the seeking organization. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications 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.