WBG Pioneer - Kuwait Country Operations Intern

Description

WBG Pioneers, the World Bank Group’s Internship Program, offers undergraduate and postgraduate students a high impact learning experience at the heart of global development. Participants gain hands on experience in a diverse and dynamic environment, contribute fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, and connect with international professionals working to end poverty on a livable planet.

WBG Pioneer

Background/Organizational Context

The World Bank Group (WBG) Pioneers Internship Program in Kuwait is designed to provide high-potential students with hands-on exposure to development work across key sectors. The program supports the WBG’s engagement in Kuwait by contributing to analytical work, stakeholder engagement, and operational support in areas such as private sector development, public sector reform, communications, and country operations.
Interns will be embedded within different WBG units including IFC, CMU, ECR, and GGP, and will contribute to ongoing projects aligned with Kuwait’s development priorities. These may include supporting economic diversification, strengthening institutional capacity, enhancing private sector participation, and promoting knowledge exchange. The program also serves as a pipeline for future talent interested in pursuing careers with the World Bank Group.

Duties and Responsibilities

Across all tracks, interns will be expected to:

• Conduct background research and contribute to analytical work including sector briefs, policy notes, and presentations
  
• Support preparation of reports, concept notes, and internal/external communications materials
  
• Assist in organizing meetings, workshops, and stakeholder engagements with government counterparts and partners
  
• Compile and analyze data to inform project activities and country engagement strategies
  
• Provide administrative and coordination support to project teams as needed
  
• Track-specific responsibilities include:
  

Country Operations Intern:

• Support country business development, portfolio monitoring and reporting
  
• Assist in coordination with counterparts and stakeholders on identified engagements
  
• Contribute to briefing materials for senior management and missions

Selection Criteria

• Candidates must be currently enrolled in, or in the final year of postgraduate (Master’s or PhD) program, in a field relevant to the selected internship track.
  
• Candidates must have 0–2 years of relevant professional experience
  
• Academic background must align with the requirements outlined in the job description
  
• Demonstrated interest in multilateral led development agenda, particularly in areas relevant to the World Bank Group’s work in Kuwait and the broader MENA region.
  
• Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills
  
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
  
• Ability to work effectively in diverse, team-based environments
  
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced setting.
  
• Fluency in English and Arabic is required.
  
• Must be a national of the State of Kuwait

WBG Culture Attributes:
1. Sense of urgency: Anticipate and quickly respond to the needs of internal and external stakeholders.
2. Thoughtful risk-taking: Challenge the status quo and push boundaries to achieve greater impact.
3. Empowerment and accountability: Empower yourself and others to act and hold each other accountable for results.

The World Bank Group values diversity and encourages all qualified candidates who are nationals of World Bank Group member countries to apply, regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.  Sub-Saharan African nationals, Caribbean nationals, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.