From March to June of this year, Ukraine’s Central Election Commission (CEC), the National Agency on Corruption Prevention (NACP), the Ministry of Digital Transformation and IFES, hosted a new generation of interns enrolled in IFES’ university-level civic education courses, “Democracy: From Theory to Practice” and “Electoral Disputes Resolution,” in addition to students who successfully completed the online course, “Democracy through Actions,” available on the “Diia. Osvita” platform.

Each of the four institutions hosted four interns, providing them with hands-on experience in public service. Since its launch in 2021, the initiative has administered nine cycles and hosted 36 alumni. This year’s program welcomed the Ministry of Digital Transformation as a new partner.

The internship program allows young professionals to dispel myths about public service and promotes youth engagement in building a society that adheres to core democratic values by deepening their understanding of state institutions.

“Fostering goal-oriented, ambitious youth who are eager for positive changes in Ukraine is a responsible and honorable mission for IFES,” says Roman Lyubchenko, IFES Ukraine Deputy Country Director. “We are glad that we have the opportunity to implement this project together with reliable government partners who share our commitment to youth development.”

The spring 2024 program concluded with final presentations by the interns in June where they shared their feedback, personal experiences, and accomplishments related to the internship program.

“I expected to get into an ‘old-fashioned state body,’ but instead, I found a modern institution that offers innovative solutions to problems, knows how to communicate with citizens, and implements the latest development mechanisms,” shared CEC intern Mariana Kramar.

IFES will continue offering professional growth opportunities to students and alumni of its academic courses and provide overall support to its long-standing partners – the CEC, the NACP, and the Ministry of Digital Transformation.