UNESCO GIS And Open Data Internship Nairobi 2025: Fully Funded Hybrid Internship Role In Environmental Governance -

Introduction to the UNESCO GIS and Open Data Internship, Nairobi 2025

Are you passionate about environmental data, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), and open data governance? The UNESCO GIS and Open Data Internship in Nairobi 2025 is a golden opportunity to apply your expertise while working with one of the world’s most respected organizations. This fully funded 2-month hybrid internship at UNESCO’s Regional Office for Eastern Africa allows you to support regional water and environmental governance through hands-on experience, capacity building, and technical training.

About the UNESCO GIS and Open Data Internship, Nairobi 2025

The internship will take place between September 1 and October 31, 2025, hosted at the UNESCO Regional Office in Nairobi. This role is part of the Natural Sciences sector’s initiative to strengthen environmental governance across IGAD (Intergovernmental Authority on Development) countries through spatial data, open data policies, and technical capacity building.

Interns will contribute to developing GIS training modules, evaluating spatial data infrastructures, conducting surveys on metadata practices, and recommending actionable solutions for national and regional stakeholders.

Eligibility Criteria for this Internship

The internship targets skilled individuals in the field of GIS and environmental sciences. To qualify, applicants must:

Be currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program in GIS, environmental science, geography, data science, or related fields
Have strong GIS software knowledge (e.g., PostgreSQL/PostGIS, spatial databases)

Be proficient in English (spoken and written)
Be available full-time (35–40 hours/week) between September 1 and October 31, 2025
Have Kenyan residency or legal working eligibility (since 70% of the work is on-site)

Benefits of the UNESCO GIS and Open Data Internship, Nairobi 2025

Hands-On GIS Work: Gain real experience designing spatial databases, mapping, and drafting open data governance strategies for Eastern African nations.
Hybrid Work Flexibility: This internship is structured as 70% in-person and 30% remote, giving you the best of both worlds in professional development.
Mentorship from Experts: Work alongside professionals in UNESCO’s Natural Sciences sector, receiving guidance in global environmental policy and data strategy.

Impactful Contributions: Help shape regional open data policies that improve environmental governance, climate monitoring, and resource management.
UNESCO Certificate: Add one of the world’s most respected international bodies to your CV, boosting your credibility in any GIS or sustainability-related role.
Regional Relevance: Engage with country-level stakeholders in the Horn of Africa and Eastern Africa, addressing urgent environmental challenges through spatial data.

Professional Network Growth: Expand your international network by connecting with government agencies, research bodies, and data practitioners in Africa.

Internship Structure and Deliverables

Over the 2-month internship period, interns will:

Review GIS and metadata practices in IGAD countries

Develop training modules covering spatial data modeling, metadata, and database management
Analyze survey results related to open data systems
Prepare policy recommendations to promote open spatial data usage among national institutions

Assist in organizing stakeholder meetings and documentation

Eligibility Requirements

To be selected, candidates should:

Have at least 3 years of academic or professional experience with GIS and environmental monitoring

Be familiar with spatial database architecture, metadata standards, and open-source tools
Demonstrate strong communication and writing skills in English
Be legally permitted to work in Kenya or travel to Nairobi during the internship period

How to Apply for the UNESCO GIS and Open Data Internship in Nairobi 2025

To apply:

Visit the official UNESCO internship portal linked below.
Prepare and submit the following:
- Updated CV or résumé
- A compelling cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of GIS-related training or portfolio samples (if available)
Submit your documents through the online portal before the application closes (specific deadline will be announced mid-year)

Final Thoughts

The UNESCO GIS and Open Data Internship Nairobi 2025 is more than a résumé boost—it’s a transformative journey into global environmental governance. This is your chance to contribute directly to open data reforms, spatial policy, and environmental innovation across Eastern Africa.

Whether you’re looking to launch your GIS career, transition into sustainable development, or simply build international experience, this hybrid role offers the exposure and credibility you need. Apply now and position yourself at the intersection of technology, policy, and sustainability.