Young Professionals Programme (YPP)

The ITU YPP is focused on training the next generation of global ICT experts and leaders to help shape the future of the tech sector – standards, policies, regulations and recommendations. With this 2-year program, young, brilliant individuals will be exposed to understand technology, regulatory and policy issues and learn how it works in practice. Young experts will contribute to bridging the digital divide and leveraging technology for the benefit of society. The ITU YPP will support emerging talent to work across three Sectors and the General Secretariat.

Our first group of Young Professionals will join ITU in early 2024. Call for applications to be launched in September 2023.

Key program features:

  • Discovering tech: on-the-job learning
  • Professional experience and talent development
  • Research and innovation
  • Mentoring and learning
  • Global network

Why should you join ITU YPP?

Discovering tech: on-the-job learning

As part of this program, young professionals will learn about information and communication technologies and the role of ITU in promoting equitable, affordable, universal, innovative, and safe connectivity. The program has a combined learning format which includes practical learning and training opportunities with the ITU Academy.

Research and innovation. Young professionals will work on assignments and initiatives on various topics from artificial intelligence, quantum, internet of things, cybersecurity, to space, future generation of networks and much more. They will learn about the potential of cross-cutting technologies, their applicability, and impact.  There are over 400 research questions discussed in Study Groups and Focus Groups at ITU.

Mentoring and learning. Within this program, young professionals will be assigned mentors and supervisors to help improve their technical, management, and policy skills. They will be exposed to interesting, innovative, and challenging projects that will help to develop their expertise.

Global network. Young professionals will have an opportunity to network with ICT regulators, policy-makers, and experts from industry and academia from all over the world. They will contribute to the network of over 20 000 ICT experts that shape the ICT ecosystem.

Professional experience and talent development. Young professionals will learn about diplomacy, policy, how to strengthen collaboration, develop partnerships, and how to reach consensus.

Criteria:

  • The Program aims to bring young experts from underrepresented regions with a focus on developing countries, LDCs, LLDCS and SIDS.
  • 2 years rotation program (one year in HQs and one year in the regional office)
  • Maximum 30 years of age at the time of application
  • Available for 24 months
  • University degree
  • Minimum 1 year of relevant experience
  • Strong analytical, research, and organizational skills
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • English at advanced level and knowledge of one other official language of the Union (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish) would be an advantage.