[Endangered Language Fund](http://www.endangeredlanguagefund.org)

November 10, 2025

US$5,000 for a two-month traineeship in Paris

A two-month sponsored traineeship for Indigenous or Aboriginal individuals to gain hands-on experience in education and language preservation with UNESCO’s Education team in Paris.

--- ## Description This opportunity, offered by the Endangered Language Fund (ELF), provides a two-month sponsored traineeship at UNESCO’s Education Sector at its Paris Headquarters. The program is designed specifically for Indigenous or Aboriginal individuals and aims to build capacity in education and language preservation. Trainees will gain practical experience through work assignments aligned with UNESCO's mission, benefit from mentorship, and contribute their expertise to ongoing educational projects. The traineeship is timed for spring 2026, with an anticipated start date between February and March. --- ## Due Dates - November 10, 2025: Deadline for Applications (complete applications must be emailed to elf@endangeredlanguagefund.org) --- ## Funding Amount - Award: US$5,000 to support travel and living costs for the two-month traineeship in Paris. - Note: Any costs exceeding this amount are the responsibility of the recipient. --- ## Eligibility Applicants must meet the following criteria: - Must be Indigenous or Aboriginal (see [UN OHCHR Fact Sheet No. 9](https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/Documents/Publications/fs9Rev.2.pdf) for guidance). - Must hold a bachelor’s degree; advanced degrees or current enrollment in graduate studies are preferred. - Preferred fields: Education, Linguistics, Indigenous Studies, or related disciplines. - Proficiency in English (spoken and written) is required. Knowledge of French or another UN language is considered an asset. - Must consent to UNESCO terms and conditions for the traineeship. --- ## Application Process Applicants should prepare and submit the following materials: - One-page cover letter detailing interest in the traineeship and how eligibility criteria are met. - One-page statement on how the opportunity will support 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). - Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume. **Submission:** Email the complete application as a single package to elf@endangeredlanguagefund.org with "UNESCO-ELF Traineeship" in the subject line. **Selection Process:** ELF will review applications and recommend a candidate for the UNESCO Traineeship Agreement. UNESCO may request additional information. Applicants do not need to apply separately to UNESCO unless instructed by ELF or UNESCO. --- ## Additional Information - The traineeship is scheduled for spring 2026 (anticipated start: February–March). - The selected trainee will work onsite at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. - The program offers unique exposure to international education and language preservation initiatives within the UN system. --- ## External Links - [ELF-UNESCO Traineeship Program Page](http://www.endangeredlanguagefund.org/elf-unesco-traineeship.html) - [Endangered Language Fund Home](http://www.endangeredlanguagefund.org) - [UN OHCHR Fact Sheet No. 9: Indigenous Peoples and the United Nations Human Rights System (PDF)](https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/Documents/Publications/fs9Rev.2.pdf) --- ## Contact Information | Purpose | Contact | |------------------------|--------------------------------------------| | General Inquiries | elf@endangeredlanguagefund.org | | ELF Office Phone | +1 203-865-6163 x 265 | | ELF Mailing Address | 300 George Street, Suite 900, New Haven, CT 06511, USA | ---

Sponsored Traineeship – Endangered Language Fund – International Decade of Indigenous Languages

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