Learn more about the Endangered Language Fund's first sponsored UNESCO trainee (in partnership with the UNESCO Chair on  Rights Education Among Indigenous and Non-Dominant Language Communities), Sarojini Birua from the Ho community in India (pictured with Noro Andriamiseza Ingarao , Programme Specialist in Education, UNESCO):  Multilingual Education Key

Call for Sponsored Traineeship
Endangered Language Fund – International Decade of Indigenous Languages Funding Support for an Internship at UNESCO Education Sector, Paris Headquarters

Position: Sponsored Trainee
Location: UNESCO Headquarters, Paris, France
Duration: 2 months (Spring 2026: Anticipated Start Date February - March)
Award Amount: US$5,000

Eligibility:
• Must be Indigenous or Aboriginal (see: https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/Documents/Publications/fs9Rev.2.pdf)
• Must hold a bachelor’s degree. Advanced degrees or current enrollment in graduate studies preferred. Preferred fields: Education, Linguistics, Indigenous Studies, or related disciplines.
• Proficiency in English (spoken and written) is required. Knowledge of French or other UN languages is an asset.
• Must consent to UNESCO terms and conditions for the traineeship.

Overview:
​The Endangered Language Fund (ELF) is seeking a dedicated and passionate sponsored trainee to join UNESCO’s Education team at the Paris Headquarters. This traineeship offers a unique opportunity for Indigenous/Aboriginal individuals to gain hands-on experience and contribute to UNESCO's mission in education and language preservation. The successful recipient(s) will receive financial support from ELF in the form of US$5,000 to assist with costs related to participating in the traineeship. Costs exceeding ELF funding will be the responsibility of the recipient.

Purpose of the Sponsored Traineeship Programme:
• Knowledge Enhancement: Provide selected trainees with the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and consolidate their experience through practical work assignments in areas related to UNESCO's work on language and education.

• Exposure to UNESCO's Work: Expose trainees to the work of UNESCO, enabling them to gain a better understanding of its mandate, programmes, and processes.

• Professional Input: Benefit from the input of UNESCO education staff who can bring new ideas, knowledge, experience, and dedication in support of UNESCO’s programmes and activities.

Application Process:
Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications including the following:
• One page cover letter detailing interest in the traineeship and how eligibility criteria are met.  
​• One page describing how this opportunity will contribute to your commitment to, and work with, endangered language communities.
• Unofficial transcripts and/or copy of diploma.
• One letter of support (must be included with the application).
• CV or resume.

Complete applications should be emailed to elf@endangeredlanguagefund.org with 'UNESCO-ELF Traineeship' in the subject line.

Once an applicant is selected for ELF funding, the ELF team will recommend them for the UNESCO Traineeship Agreement. UNESCO may request additional information at that time. Applicants do not need to apply for the UNESCO internship separately unless notified by ELF or UNESCO.

Deadline for Applications:
10 November 2025

​Join us at UNESCO and contribute to making a difference in the world through education!