Unlocking the Potential for African Students to Shape the Future of Trade
Deadline: Oct 31, 2023
Location: Ghana
Introduction
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) stands as a monumental initiative, heralding a new era in African economic development. Uniting 55 countries within the African Union (AU) and eight Regional Economic Communities (RECs), the AfCFTA creates the world’s largest free trade area. Its overarching mission is to forge a single continental market, encompassing a staggering 1.3 billion people and a combined GDP of approximately US$ 3.4 trillion. The AfCFTA’s visionary goal is to facilitate the unhindered flow of goods and services across the continent, ultimately elevating Africa’s global trade standing.
A flagship project of Agenda 2063, the African Union’s long-term strategy to transform the continent into a global powerhouse, the AfCFTA holds immense promise. In alignment with its ambitions, the AfCFTA is excited to announce the launch of an internship program, inviting students with a solid grasp of relevant knowledge and skills to participate. This initiative seeks to empower the youth by providing practical experience and international exposure.
Context
Recognizing the pivotal role the AfCFTA plays in advancing the continent’s development agenda, it has become imperative to establish a platform for promising African students. This program aims to introduce students with the requisite knowledge and skills to the inner workings of the AfCFTA through an internship. The internship initiative is carefully structured to bring in highly qualified and motivated students from diverse backgrounds, engaging them in projects aligned with the Secretariat’s Strategic Orientations and supporting its corporate functions. The primary objective is to empower successful candidates, nurturing their analytical and technical skills within an international setting.
This internship program is fundamentally educational in nature, intending to familiarize participants with the AfCFTA’s operations early in their careers while strengthening their personal and professional skills. It offers an avenue for participants to gain hands-on experience and exposure in various applicable fields, all while immersing themselves in a multicultural environment.
Objectives
- Exposure to AfCFTA Work: The primary objective is to provide students with an opportunity to gain a deep understanding of the work conducted by the AfCFTA.
- Learning Platform: The program seeks to serve as a learning platform for qualified students, allowing them to intern with the AfCFTA.
- First-Hand Experience: Offering a unique chance to experience the inner workings of one of the African Union’s most ambitious projects.
- Promoting AfCFTA: Beyond the internship’s educational aspects, it aims to raise awareness about the AfCFTA among the general public, especially the youth, inspiring them to strive toward careers in international organizations.
If you are a student eager to contribute to the AfCFTA’s mission and gain invaluable experience, seize this opportunity to shape your future.
Application Details:
Click Here to Apply Online: The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Internship Program
How to Apply? (Application Process)
- Online Application: To embark on your journey with the AfCFTA Secretariat Internship Program, start by submitting your application online.
- Registration for New Users: If this is your first encounter with our online registration system, you’ll need to register before gaining access to your personal account.
- Thorough Information: We strongly advise you to provide as much relevant information as possible to enhance your application’s strength.
- Supporting Documents: Along with your online application, please ensure the submission of the following supporting documents:
- A motivation letter that highlights your expectations from the internship program.
- A copy of a valid passport or identity card.
- A letter of motivation.
- Your current curriculum vitae (CV).
- Proof of enrollment, preferably a letter of introduction from your university.
Once you’ve successfully submitted your application, you will receive an email confirmation acknowledging the receipt of your application.
Selection Process
The selection process unfolds through four main stages:
- Application and Cover Letter: Your application and cover letter should be addressed to the Administration and Human Resources Directorate of the Secretariat.
- Pre-Screening: Every application undergoes a meticulous screening process. Suitable candidates are then shortlisted and made available to AfCFTA Secretariat Directorates.
- Interview and/or Written Test: Hiring teams may invite candidates to complete a telephone interview and/or a written test.
- Offer Letter: A candidate who successfully navigates the telephone interview and/or written test will receive an internship offer letter via email from the AHRM Directorate.
References
Be prepared to provide verifiable references as part of the application process.
Note on Application Deadlines
Please be aware that the application deadline varies for each internship period. For specific deadline details, visit the AU official application page.
Internship Duration
The maximum duration for participation in the internship program is six months. Selections for intern positions are made based on the specific needs of the Secretariat during each period.
Don’t miss out on this exceptional opportunity to contribute to the AfCFTA’s mission and embark on an enriching journey towards shaping the future of African trade. Your dedication can help drive the continent’s economic growth and global prominence. Apply today!