ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives has introduced a unique summer internship called the URAAN Summer Scholars Program.
This six-week, fully funded internship is an amazing opportunity open to high-achieving overseas Pakistani students who want to contribute to the future of their country.
The program welcomes applications from students of Pakistani origin aged between 18 and 29.
Those applying for the internship must be enrolled in undergraduate or postgraduate studies at a top international university, hold a minimum CGPA of 3.5 out of 4.0, or its equivalent, and show a clear interest in governance, development, or public policy. Strong academics and leadership qualities are also required.
Selected participants will be given a PKR 90,000 stipend for the six weeks. During the program, they will get to work alongside policymakers, take part in strategic policy discussions, and play a real role in national development projects. Senior government and policy world players will also mentor them.
The URAAN Pakistan 5Es framework of Exports, E-Pakistan, Environment, Energy, and Equity & Empowerment is the concept behind the arrangement of the internship.
The internship will provide young overseas Pakistanis with an opportunity to acquire hands-on experience in governance and policy-making with the creation of strong connections with the institutions of the country.
In addition, the interns will work closely with local youth from the Young Development Fellows (YDFs) and Young Peace and Development Corps (YPDC), offering a valuable exchange of ideas and experiences with peers already active on the ground.
The candidates who successfully go through the program will be rewarded with a formal certificate and will be integrated into a selective alumni network, which will provide them with future opportunities for engagement in the public sector in Pakistan.
Last date for internship application
The deadline to apply for the internship is June 15, 2025.
The government sees overseas Pakistanis as an important but often overlooked resource. With access to top global education and diverse international experience, they are well-placed to bring new thinking, innovation, and best practices to Pakistan.
Through this internship program, they are provided with an opportunity to get reacquainted with their roots and be part of the process of developing national policy as well as being part of long-term reforms to benefit the country.
