Hosted at the SAARC Secretariat in Kathmandu, Nepal, the internship aims to enhance understanding of SAARC’s mission while equipping interns with professional skills and networking opportunities. Students interested in regional development, diplomacy, or socio-economic cooperation will find this program highly beneficial.
About SAARC
The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) was established in 1985 with the objective of promoting peace, prosperity, and mutual understanding among its eight member nations: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. The SAARC Secretariat, based in Kathmandu, Nepal, serves as the central hub for coordinating activities, programs, and regional initiatives.
By offering this internship program, SAARC encourages young researchers and students to contribute to regional dialogue, policy analysis, and cooperative projects in critical areas such as agriculture, environment, education, health, trade, poverty alleviation, and energy.
Winter SAARC Internship Programme 2025-26 Overview
Feature | Details |
Name of Internship | SAARC Internship Programme (Winter 2025–2026) |
Offering Institution | SAARC Secretariat, Kathmandu, Nepal |
Available Areas of Work | Human Resource Development, Agriculture, Environment, Biotechnology, Economic Trade & Finance, Social Affairs, Information & Poverty Alleviation, Energy, Education, Security & Culture |
Language of Instruction | English |
Duration | 2 weeks to 6 months (Nov 2025 – Jan 2026) |
Deadline | Apply at least 3 months before desired start date |
Number of Positions | Limited placements (based on Secretariat capacity) |
Location | Kathmandu, Nepal (with possible attachment to regional centers) |
Funding | Unpaid internship (self-funded for travel, accommodation, living costs) |
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the SAARC Internship Programme Winter 2025–2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Open to undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate students from South Asian countries.
- Researchers of any nationality working in South Asian research institutes are also eligible.
- Applicants must demonstrate an interest in research, regional cooperation, or SAARC’s core work areas.
- Proficiency in English is required, as it is the working language of the internship.
- Must be able to commit to a period between two weeks and six months within the internship timeframe (Nov 2025 – Jan 2026).
Benefits & Logistics
While the internship is unpaid, it provides several academic and professional advantages:
- Professional Exposure – Direct interaction with diplomats, policy experts, and professionals at the SAARC Secretariat.
- Research Opportunities – Access to policy documents, resources, and the Secretariat’s ongoing projects.
- Networking – Opportunities to connect with professionals across South Asia.
- Logistical Support – Workspace, computer, internet, printer, and local telephone access provided.
- Personal Development – Improved research, writing, and communication skills in an international environment.
⚠️ Note:
• You have to bear the responsibility of travel, accommodation, food, and living expenses.
• SAARC may provide recommendation letters for visa purposes but does not cover visa costs.
Application Process
Applying for the SAARC Internship Programme is straightforward:
- Download the Application Form
- Prepare Required Documents
• Completed application form
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• A short essay (500 words) explaining interest in the internship
• Passport-size photo (not older than 6 months)
• Letter of recommendation from Head of University/Institution
• Sponsorship guarantee letter from parent or institution - Submit Application
• By email: [email protected]
• By post:
Information and Poverty Alleviation Division, SAARC Secretariat, PO Box 4222, Kathmandu, Nepal - Timeline
• Applications should be submitted at least 3 months before the expected start date.
• Internships run November 2025 – January 2026.
Comparison of SAARC Internship vs. Other Global Internships
Feature | SAARC Internship | UN Internship | World Bank Internship |
Location | Kathmandu, Nepal | Global (NY, Geneva, etc.) | Washington D.C. & country offices |
Duration | 2 weeks – 6 months | 2 – 6 months | 2 – 6 months |
Funding | Unpaid | Unpaid | Paid |
Eligibility | South Asian students as well as researchers | All students worldwide who are of graduate level | Graduate students worldwide |
Areas of Work | Regional cooperation, trade, poverty alleviation, culture | Human rights, diplomacy, peace & security | Development, economics, finance |
Language | English | English/French | English |
FAQs About Winter SAARC Internship Programme 2025-26
- Q1: Who can apply for the SAARC Internship Programme?
A1: Undergraduate, graduate, postgraduate students, and researchers in South Asia are eligible. - Q2: Is the SAARC internship 2025 paid?
A2: No, it is unpaid. Interns are expected to cover their own expenses. - Q3: Where will the internship take place?
A3: Primarily at the SAARC Secretariat, Kathmandu, Nepal, with possible attachments to regional centers. - Q4: How long does the internship last?
A4: Between 2 weeks and 6 months, depending on mutual agreement. - Q5: What documents are needed for the application?
A5: CV, 500-word essay, application form, photo, recommendation letter, and sponsorship guarantee letter.
The Winter 2025–2026 SAARC Internship Programme is an outstanding chance for students passionate about South Asia’s regional cooperation and sustainable development. If you want to enhance your academic and professional journey while contributing to meaningful regional work, this internship is for you! APPLY NOW. Check the official website for further details.
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