The ITU Youth Strategy aims to improve and have a real impact on the lives of young people around the world and to ensure meaningful participation of youth in ITU as key stakeholders in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Its implementation is guided by PP Resolution 198 (Rev. Bucharest, 2022) empowerment of youth through telecommunication/information and communication technology and WTDC Resolution 76 (Rev. Kigali, 2022) Promoting information and communication technologies among young women and men for social and economic empowerment.

Generation Connect aims to engage global youth and encourage their participation as equal partners alongside the leaders of today’s digital change, empowering young people with the skills and opportunities to advance their vision of a connected future.

The ITU Young Professionals Programme (YPP) is a new recruitment programme, and the first launched initiative of the ITU Secretary General.

ITU’s Young Professionals Programme aims to give talented, qualified young professionals an opportunity to start a career in the United Nations, support the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and contribute to inclusive, affordable and secure meaningful connectivity.

This exciting new programme hopes to increase youth representation at ITU while providing mentorship and learning opportunities for young professionals. It also potentially puts YPP participants on track for entry-level employment with ITU.

Participants in the two-year rotational programme will spend time both at headquarters and at a regional office.

How to Support

The YPP is currently looking for funding by all ITU Members and partners. The programme seeks support to fund participants from underrepresented regions, aiming to widen representation and bring diverse perspectives to ITU’s work. ITU Members are invited to support this programme with financial contributions, offering an opportunity to empower young people to engage with ITU (in our headquarters and in the field) and contribute to bridging the digital divide.

Who can apply

  • Early career professionals between the ages of 21 and 30 years.
  • Applicants in underrepresented regions and Least-Developed Countries will be strongly encouraged.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Advanced university degree or equivalent.
  • Knowledge of one of the six official languages of ITU (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish) at advanced level, knowledge of a second official ITU language a definite plus.
  • Ability to apply expertise, communicate effectively, continually learn and share knowledge.
  • Organizational commitment, results focus, aptitude for teamwork and collaboration.
  • Applicants equipped for remote working if necessary.

Once the YPP has been fully funded, an application process will be opened. Stay tuned for more information on how to apply.