Internship Report

What did I do during the Internship?

I worked in the Energy and Environment (EE) department of the UNDP Beijing office from June to August during which I have engaged in a variety of jobs on project management, administrative support, translation work and campaign organizing responsibilities.

In UNDP China, the EE team has four major streams/portfolios, namely the climate change, chemical management, biodiversity and energy and nature reserve. Though my assistance was given to all line managers and associates, I was particularly more involved in climate change and biodiversity streams owing to my supervisor’s work allocation. For most of the time, I concentrated in working on different project’s summaries which are the only publishing materials to help facilitate the team’s or the organization’s communication with the public and other stakeholders. By reading and analysing hundreds pages of project documents, I had to condense and conduct a 1-page summary comprising the current challenge, the response and the expected achievements of the projects formulated or implemented to justify the launching of projects. Some of the projects have gained considerable achievements and feedbacks after implementation, e.g. “Barrier Removal to the Cost-Effective Development and Implementation of Energy Efficiency” (BRESL), “Phasing-out of Incandescent Lamps and Energy Saving Lamps Promotion in China” (PILESLAMP), etc.

What did I learn in the department?

Not only have I gained abundant environmental knowledge from the department, my horizon has been widened by having a glimpse on the vision and mission of the UN such as United Nations Development and Assistance Framework (UNDAF) Goal, Country Programme Action Plan (CCAP), Millennium Development Goal (MDG), “UN in one” reforms, etc, so that my international scope can be developed, thus changing my life attitude and the direction of my future career development.

Also, by assisting the event management of the team such as the launching ceremony of the regional-scale projects, communication and public relations techniques were always involved in order to disseminate or communicate with stakeholders across different sectors. High-profile strategies were adopted for the sake of public attention consolidation. So, learning and experience gaining are beyond the scope of the environment field with general enrichment of personal knowledge.

As the UN is an international organization, the diversified cultural dynamic and all-embracing working environment is very impressive and highly appreciated. With people of different nationalities gathering at the same place, the organization is respectful and tolerant of the diversity. In such a context, I also learnt to be adaptive and flexible in this dynamic and enjoyed the harmonious working environment.

What were the most unforgettable moments?

There were many memorable scenarios during my internship that hardly name all. But one of the most unforgettable moments would be the visit of the UN Secretary-general, Ban Ki-moon. He participated into our team’s project launching ceremony by mobilizing people’s support of more efficient energy consumption and recognizing China as a developing country’s effort in promoting energy efficiency.

He then visited our office compound and took a group photo with us. I was so impressed by his humble and approachable attitude. At the talk, he shared with us his vision and plan as an international organization leader and it was my great honour to also shake hands with him.

Friendship and Comradeship

Apart from my work, I have met good friends and colleagues who have given me considerable support during my internship. As all interns came alone in Beijing, we have cultivated strong bonding with other interns who were emotionally dependent on each other. There were numerous interns’ gathering and travel trips organized by ourselves so that we can relax during weekends and holidays. I would never forget the intimacy developed especially with my flatmate who was also a UNDP intern during the 70 days in Beijing that we laughed and cried together. It has become the most precious time and memory in my life.

I would also like to take this good opportunity to express my gratitude towards my supervisor and colleagues who have provided consistent support and guidance for me despite my lack of environment background and sufficient work experience. They were so considerate and reliable that I always sought advice from them no matter on work or life experience. Every young adults need to grow up from challenges but it was because of my dearest colleagues, I was provided with a good breeding ground nurturing me to grow faster and better.

Message to later interns:

For an EE intern, the interest in environmental affairs is particularly important because when you have passion, you then have the drive motivating you to work and pay attention to the agenda. Some relevant knowledge in advance will facilitate one to participate and involve into the work but it is not a must. If you are interested in environmental affairs and want to get involved in diversified work culture, you should not hesitate and join the programme. 

The United Nations Development Programme-Peace and Development Foundation Internship Programme is a unique opportunity for Hong Kong students to gain experience working at an international organisation, and develop a better understanding of the United Nations and its work. Through this programme, interns will be exposed to UNDP's development activities, thematic priorities, and technical cooperation practices. The Internship Programme is also an opportunity for young people to apply their studies in a practical settings, and acquire skills for their career development.

Other Previous UNDP-PDF Interns:
- 2008 UNDP-PDF Interns
- 2007 UNDP-PDF Interns
- 2006 UNDP-PDF Interns

Back to UNDP-PDF Internship Programme