The SAARC Internship Programme (SIP) offers students and researchers a unique opportunity to contribute to regional cooperation research while gaining hands-on experience at the SAARC Secretariat in Kathmandu, Nepal. Established on 31 May 2004, this prestigious internship allows participants to deepen their understanding of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and its initiatives.
In 2024, 33 students successfully completed their internship, highlighting the programmeโs impact in fostering regional research and collaboration.
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๐ About the SAARC Internship Programme (SIP)
The SAARC Internship Programme (SIP) aims to promote awareness about SAARC and facilitate research on its activities. It offers students and researchers a chance to work directly at the SAARC Secretariat in Kathmandu, Nepal, or at other SAARC Regional Centers, as determined by the Secretary-General.
Duration: 2 weeks to 6 months
Sessions: Twice a year โ Summer (MayโJuly) and Winter (NovemberโJanuary)
Participants can access official reports, documents, and video recordings of meetings to support their research. Additionally, internees may attend SAARC meetings and assist in documentation.
๐ Eligibility for SAARC Internship 2025
The SAARC Internship Programme (SIP) is open to:
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Undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate students from South Asian countries
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Researchers of any nationality affiliated with South Asian research institutes
๐ Application Process for SAARC Internship Programme 2025
1๏ธโฃ Submit the Application Form
- Obtain the application form from: www.saarc-sec.org
- Complete the form with a recent passport-size photo, academic details, and a 500-word statement explaining your research proposal and intended duration.
2๏ธโฃ Attach the Required Documents:
- Letter of Recommendation from your academic institution
- Parental Consent Form (for students)
- Proof of Financial Support (from institution or parents)
3๏ธโฃ Send Your Application:
๐ฎ Postal Address: Information and Poverty Alleviation Division, SAARC Secretariat, PO Box 4222, Kathmandu, NEPAL
๐ง Email Applications: Accepted (via the SAARC website)
๐๏ธ Apply at least 3 months before your desired internship start date.
๐ซ Internship Experience at SAARC Secretariat
During the internship, participants receive:
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Access to SAARC Library and official documents
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Interaction opportunities with Directors and Desk Officers
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Participation in ongoing SAARC meetings (with Secretary-Generalโs permission)
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Dedicated study room with internet and computing facilities (shared if multiple interns)
Certification: Upon successful completion, interns receive a Certificate from the SAARC Secretary-General.
๐ฐ Important Notes on Costs & Logistics
- No Stipend: The programme does not offer a salary or financial compensation.
- Visa & Travel: Interns are responsible for obtaining a Nepal visa and covering travel and accommodation expenses.
- Logistic Support: Limited assistance for accommodation arrangements may be provided upon request.
๐ Post-Internship Requirements
- Research Paper Submission: Interns must submit two copies of their completed research project to the SAARC Secretariat.
- Final Presentation: Interns will present their research findings (15โ30 minutes) at the Secretariat.
- Plagiarism Check: Submitted work must be plagiarism-free and properly cited.
๐ฃ Why Join the SAARC Internship Programme 2025?
โจ Build Regional Awareness: Contribute to research on regional cooperation.
โจ Networking: Collaborate with scholars and SAARC officials.
โจ Certificate of Recognition: Gain a valuable credential from a regional body.
โจ Enhance Research Skills: Access official reports and policy documents.
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๐ก๏ธ General Provisions
๐ซ Interns cannot access classified or draft SAARC documents.
๐ซ Unauthorized conduct (e.g., trespassing) will lead to immediate termination.
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Interns retain authorship of their research.
๐ Apply Now for the SAARC Internship Programme 2025
๐จ Application Deadline: 3 months before the desired session (Summer or Winter)
๐ Official Website: SAARC Internship Programme
