Digital Innovation Assistant

Host entity: ITU IND

Volunteer type: National

Areas of expertise: Information technology and telecommunications, Data science, information management, Artificial Intelligence

Application deadline: 10/11/2026

Mission and objectives

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs), made up of a membership of 194 Member States and more than 1000 companies, universities and international and regional organizations.

ITU facilitates international connectivity in communication networks, allocates global radio spectrum and satellite orbits, develops technical standards that enable networks and technologies to connect seamlessly, and works to improve access to digital technologies in underserved communities worldwide. As a trusted multilateral platform, ITU supports international agreements and standards, shares knowledge, builds capacity, and works with members and partners to expand access to technology worldwide.

ITU contributes to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by advancing universal connectivity and sustainable digital transformation.

Assignment context

The Telecommunication Development Sector (ITU-D) works to close the digital divide and drive digital transformation to leverage the power of ICTs for economic prosperity, job creation, digital skills development, gender equality, diversity, a sustainable and circular economy, and for saving lives. Its work prioritizes those most in need- from people living in the world’s Least Developed Countries to marginalized communities everywhere. The work of the Telecommunication Development Sector is supported by its Secretariat, the Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT).

Within BDT, the ITU Area Office for South Asia and Innovation Centre has become a significant driver for advancing shared priorities related to digital transformation, innovation ecosystems, and regional collaboration. The Innovation Centre specifically serves as a global technology acceleration centre, harnessing the transformative power of digital innovation and leveraging India’s vibrant innovation ecosystem to help bridge the digital divide. The ITU Area Office for South Asia and Innovation Centre is actively advancing capacities in digital government, digital public infrastructure, innovation and broader digital transformation agendas by supporting Member States in developing enabling policies, regulatory frameworks, and whole-of government approaches that foster inclusive, secure, and resilient digital ecosystems. The UN Associate Volunteer will support innovation engagement in Telecommunication and ICTs in South Asia.

Task description

Under the direct supervision of Head of the Area Office for South Asia and Innovation Centre, the UN Associate Volunteer will undertake the following tasks:
• Study and provide updates on Telecommunication / ICT Innovation in the respective countries in South Asia, under the Area Office and Innovation Centre.
• Prepare a summary report on opportunities for ITU engagement in innovation col-laboration with Area Office and Innovation Centre, New Delhi
• Conduct research and data analysis, including:
o Carrying out desk research in support of current projects and activities in the field of digital innovation.
o drafting and editing reports, briefings, and documents
• Support developing briefs on innovation engagement in the subregion, including:
• Perform other duties as required.

Skills and experience

(Currently studying) towards a degree in Information Technology, Computer Sciences, Engineering, emerging technologies or other relevant field.

Competencies and values

• Commitment and Motivation
• Commitment to Continuous Learning
• Creativity
• Technological Awareness

Living conditions

New Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region is a large and bustling metropolis of some 14 million people undergoing rapid changes. The capital city is an administrative, cultural and commercial center with modern amenities and well connected by air. It is a safe place with large expatriate community drawn from embassies, UN agencies, MNCs and foreign businesses. It has short moderate winter and long hot summer.

As this is a national UN Volunteer assignment, the UN Volunteer will be responsible for arranging his/her own housing and other living essentials. This position is based in New Delhi. National UN Volunteers are part of the malicious insurance plan. National UN Volunteers are expected to be culturally sensitive and adjust to the prevailing culture and traditions.

You can check full entitlements at https://app.unv.org/calculator .

For information specific to your assignment, please see below:

• Monthly Voluntary Living Allowance (VLA): INR 56,126.74
• Entry lump sum (one-time payment): USD 350 (equivalent in INR)
• Relocation costs: $175 at the beginning and end of the assignment if the duty station is outside of commuting distance (as determined by UNV)
• Exit allowance (paid on successful completion of the assignment): $120 for each month served, paid on completion of contract
• Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for health, life, and malicious acts
• Annual leave: 2.5 days per month
• Learning: Access to UNV's learning and career development resources.

Full eligibility requirements, conditions of service and application instructions are available on the official UNV platform.