UNFPA Burundi welcomed 16 new interns, members of the very first cohort of the "Tremplin du savoir professionnel" internship program, on March 15. The special evening was the perfect opportunity for these young talents to get to know the UNFPA Burundi team, as well as several partners and former interns. It was an excellent opportunity to exchange with them and absorb their advice and experience, to be better prepared before starting their internships. This event took place in an atmosphere of joy and celebration, marked by palpable enthusiasm as the new interns were warmly welcomed into the UNFPA Burundi family. Animated discussions focused on mutual expectations, the objectives of the internship program and future opportunities for these young talents. An exciting opportunity for them to develop their skills and gain rewarding professional experience within our organization.
UNFPA Resident Representative in Burundi, Judicaël Elidje, described UNFPA's commitment to developing the skills of young professionals, and this internship program is a concrete illustration of this.” We made a selection on the basis of merit, regardless of origin, race or physical handicap. By offering interns practical experience in a dynamic professional environment, we aim to prepare them effectively for their future careers”, he explains. That event was also an opportunity to present in detail the "Tremplin du Savoir Professionnel" internship program, emphasizing the benefits and opportunities it offers both to interns and to the organization itself. Participants were briefed on UNFPA's different areas of intervention, ranging from reproductive health to women's empowerment and the fight against gender-based violence.
“I personally liked the way you welcomed us at the ceremony, the speeches and advices were very interesting not only for the internship but also for my professional life, and encouraged me to pursue my dreams and motivate myself to achieve my objectives on this internship”, testifies Pavel KAGIMBI, a new intern in the development population field. He goes on saying that he greatly appreciated the advice given by former trainees. "I learned the importance of communication, teamwork, courtesy and politeness in the professional environment”, he concluded.
" The warm welcome made us feel like family. Seeing our superiors and our new colleagues at the same table, sharing their experiences over refreshments, was something I really admired. UNFPA really marked our professional departure with good memories”, testifies Gisele IRAKIZA, a new intern in the Information and Communication Technologies department.
Throughout the event, participants also had the opportunity to exchange ideas and perspectives with former trainees who are now active members of the professional community. These testimonies inspired the new trainees, showing them the opportunities for growth and fulfillment that await them after successfully completing this step in their career path.
Overall, the evening welcoming new interns to the "Tremplin du savoir professionnel" internship program was a great success, marking the start of an exciting adventure for these young talents. “We look forward to seeing these interns blossom and to accompanying them in their professional development throughout their journey with UNFPA Burundi”, shared UNFPA Burundi's Resident Representative.
By Chirac Mugisha
