WHO/AFRO Online conference interpreting internship programme
The idea of a WHO/AFRO internship programme for young African interpreters emerged amid turmoil and uncertainty as the entire world was grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic. As the leading coordinating authority on international health, WHO was at the forefront of the response with other UN agencies and partners. One thus understands the initial, less than enthusiastic reception of the internship initiative, since everyone’s attention was focused on the response.
It took a lot of discussions and persuasive arguments to convince WHO senior management that this brainchild of the TIP Unit was an integral part of the Organization’s response efforts. This publication shines a spotlight on the internship programme and its outcomes, while it also recognizes the pivotal role played by the Unit Manager, Elisabeth, in obtaining overall buy-in and acceptance of the initiative.
