The Ministry of Education and the Korean National Commission for UNESCO have announced the recruitment of participants for the 2026 UNESCO Youth Expert Training Program (U-STEP) until February 1. This initiative aims to help Korean youth gain practical experience at international organizations and strengthen their global competencies. This year, the number of selected participants has been increased to 10, providing more opportunities for young people. The program, which began in 2025, has already sent four youths to the UNESCO headquarters in Paris for training since July.
Selected participants will engage in a six-month practical training program at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France, and the UNESCO Bangkok Office in Thailand. The fields available for application include education policy, digital transformation, learning data, ecology and environment, and cultural heritage. Applicants must be between 19 and 34 years old, as defined by the Youth Basic Act, and each field requires specific language scores, relevant academic backgrounds, and experience. Applications can be submitted online via the Korean National Commission for UNESCO website (unesco.or.kr).
The selection process involves domestic screening and interviews conducted by UNESCO to determine the final participants. Those selected will complete a pre-training course from March to April, followed by six months of practical training at UNESCO from June to December. The training schedule will be coordinated according to each field. For inquiries, contact the International Education Policy Division at the Ministry of Education (044-203-6762) or the Network Business Office at the Korean National Commission for UNESCO (02-6958-4162).
Minister Choi Kyo-jin emphasized that this program offers young people a valuable opportunity to gain experience at international organizations and develop collaborative skills with the world. He expressed hope that participants will grow into globally competent talents needed for the future society. The program is expected to play a significant role in expanding global career paths and building international networks for Korean youth. The government and the Korean National Commission for UNESCO plan to continue supporting youth in strengthening their international competencies.