Apply Now: Young ICIMOD Professionals Programme (YIPP) 2025/2026 for Early-Career Experts in Sustainable Mountain Development

Introduction

The Young ICIMOD Professionals Programme (YIPP) 2025/2026 is a thrilling chance for emerging professionals to dive into sustainable mountain development, climate resilience, and regional cooperation at the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD). If you’re seeking a transformative, internationally‑recognized experience—this programme is your ticket.

In this in-depth guide, I’ll break down everything about the Young ICIMOD Professionals Programme: eligibility, benefits, application process, roles, and how to shine through.

Applications Open for the Young ICIMOD Professionals Programme (YIPP) 2025/2026

The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) is now accepting applications for the Young ICIMOD Professionals Programme (YIPP) 2025/2026. This unique, prestigious initiative is designed to foster the next generation of leaders dedicated to sustainable mountain development in the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region.

YIPP offers early-career professionals from ICIMOD’s Regional Member Countries (RMCs) the opportunity to engage in impactful assignments, gain hands-on experience, and contribute to meaningful change. In exceptional cases, applicants from non-RMCs with a close association with ICIMOD may also be considered.

What is YIPP?

The YIPP is a career-defining, immersive program for dynamic young individuals with:

• At least a Master’s degree in a relevant field
• Preferably 2–3 years of professional experience

Successful applicants will work at ICIMOD’s headquarters in Kathmandu, Nepal, in a cross-cultural, impact-oriented environment.

Why Join YIPP?

This program offers a transformative journey that goes beyond professional development. Participants will:

• Learn and innovate
  Engage with research, policy dialogues, and sustainable mountain development practices.
• Contribute to change
  Address critical challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and resilient livelihoods.
• Build networks
  Collaborate with researchers, policymakers, and professionals across the region.
• Develop skills
  Gain expertise in research methodologies, policy analysis, and regional cooperation.

Key Highlights

• Duration: 12 to 18 months
• Total Positions: 10
• Location: ICIMOD HQ, Kathmandu, Nepal

Available Positions

YIPP roles are available across various Action Areas and Organizational Units:

Action Areas (1 position each):

• Cryosphere and Water
• Air
• Livelihoods and Enterprises
• Landscapes
• Regional Action
• Global Advocacy

Units (1 position each):

• Human Resources and Organisational Development
• Communications
• Strategic Results, Partnerships and Business Development
• Living Mountain Lab

General Responsibilities

All Young Professionals will:

• Support designated Action Areas or Units
• Conduct research, data analysis, and contribute to technical outputs (for Action Area roles)
• Assist in daily operations and strategic support (for Unit-based roles)
• Participate in team discussions, workshops, and training
• Engage with stakeholders and regional partners

• Integrate cross-cutting themes such as Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI), biodiversity, and climate action
• Innovate and contribute new ideas to enhance efficiency and impact

Eligibility Criteria

1. Master’s degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. environmental science, social sciences, development studies)
2. Strong research, analytical, and communication skills
3. Proficiency in English
4. Understanding of regional issues in the HKH
5. Ability to work in interdisciplinary, multicultural teams
6. Preferred: 2–3 years of experience and knowledge of local languages in HKH

Supervision & Reporting

Young Professionals will be supervised by a Unit Head or Action Area Lead and must submit:

• Monthly progress reports
• A final report and presentation to ICIMOD’s Senior Management Committee at the end of the fellowship

Location & Work Culture

You will be based in Kathmandu, a vibrant city offering:

• A friendly and affordable lifestyle
• Excellent trekking, rafting, and safari opportunities
• Rich cultural experiences and a safe living environment

Remuneration & Benefits

• Annual Salary: USD 16,487
• Additional Benefits: Housing allowance, insurance, and more
• Tax: Non-Nepali nationals are tax-exempt in Nepal

Application Details

• Application Deadline: 31 July 2025 at 11:59 PM (Nepal Standard Time)
• Application Method: Online via ICIMOD Vacancy Application Portal
• Instructions:
  • Indicate preferred Action Area(s) or Unit(s) in your cover letter
  • Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Young ICIMOD Professionals Programme Applications

Young ICIMOD Professionals Programme Pitfalls

Avoid these common missteps:

• ❌ Submitting a generic cover letter—don’t forget to specify your desired unit and motivation.

• ❌ Ignoring eligibility—Master’s degree and 2+ years experience required.

• ❌ Technical lingo with no real-world connection.

• ❌ Missing the file format or naming conventions.

Young ICIMOD Professionals Programme Career Impact

Through YIPP, you build:

• Real-world project skills in climate resilience and mountain development.

• A portfolio of policy briefs and published insights.

• A professional network across researchers, policymakers, and regional development leaders.

• Experience highly valued by institutions like World Bank, UNDP, UNEP, and development agencies.

Graduates of YIPP often move into influential roles in multilateral organizations, research institutions, and regional policy networks.

ICIMOD Core Values

ICIMOD is guided by values of:

• Integrity
• Neutrality
• Relevance
• Inclusiveness
• Openness
• Ambition

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

ICIMOD encourages applications from all backgrounds, especially women and underrepresented groups across the HKH region. The organization is committed to a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace, free from any form of harassment or misconduct.

Ready to shape the future of the HKH?
Join the Young ICIMOD Professionals Programme and be a part of something meaningful.

Apply now at: http://cvmgmt.icimod.org/

For more opportunities, please visit the Opportunities For Youth‘s website!