ACS and Korea Launch Internship Program to Foster Talent and Cross-Cultural Exchange

The Secretary General of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), H.E. Rodolfo Sabonge, and the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Trinidad and Tobago, H.E. Dong-il OH, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at providing internship opportunities for Korean students at the ACS headquarters. The ceremony took place on the 17th of May 2024 at the ACS Secretariat located in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, at the ACS Secretariat.

This innovative program, which is intended to nurture young talent and enhance mutual understanding, aligns with both organisations' goals of providing transformative international experiences and facilitating cross-cultural exchange. The MoU establishes a framework for the Korea-ACS Internship Program, which will enable students to engage in specialized areas relevant to their studies and contribute to ongoing projects at the ACS.

Key features of the program include:

• Placement of Korean students at the ACS for six-month internships, where they will participate in activities, research, and projects critical to the organization.
• Provision of mentorship and necessary resources by the ACS to ensure a productive and enriching internship experience.
• Coverage of program expenses by the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aligning with its commitment to support its students’ international development.
• Issuance of Certificates of Recognition upon successful completion of the internship period.

The internships are open to graduate and undergraduate students majoring in economics, law, international relations, and Latin American and Caribbean studies, among other relevant fields. Candidates are selected by MOFA and are required to be fluent in English and hold adequate health and life insurance for the duration of their stay.

Secretary General Sabonge emphasized that this program demonstrates the growing significance of the relationship between the ACS and Korea, as it presents the potential for Korea's increased involvement in ACS initiatives. He also noted the invaluable support provided to the ACS by observers such as the Republic of Korea, underscoring their important role in these collaborations.

Ambassador Dong-il OH conveyed his enthusiasm for the agreement and reflected on its significance for strengthening the ties between Korea and the Caribbean. He also expressed his hope for a sustained and ongoing relationship.

The ACS anticipates that this program will not only provide invaluable professional experience to Korean students but also bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the work of the ACS, further enriching the organization’s diverse and dynamic environment.