“I applied for an internship at the UNESCO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific because I wanted to understand how global organizations translate the ideals of digital inclusion, youth empowerment, and human development into practical initiatives that make a real difference in people's lives.”

In July 2025, Shubham Swaroop (Chinese name: Wang Shuhe), an Indian doctoral student from the Class of 2023 at the School of Public Affairs, Zhejiang University, received an internship offer from the 

UNESCO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific in Bangkok. As the first international student from Zhejiang University to intern at UNESCO, he embarked on a new chapter, contributing to projects on digital and societal transformation within UNESCO's Social and Human Sciences Sector.

Application Journey:

Clear Vision, Careful Preparation

Securing an internship with the United Nations is a rigorous test of patience, determination, and capability. From the very beginning, Shubham Swaroop had a clear goal: not only to gain valuable international experience, but also to draw on his academic background in digital agriculture to contribute unique insights to UNESCO's work in the social and human sciences.

 “My studies at Zhejiang University have largely shaped my research agenda.” His training in Agricultural Economics and Management gave him a deeper understanding of the complexities of rural development while strengthening his appreciation for grassroots cultural innovation. Throughout his doctoral studies, he benefited from the guidance of dedicated mentors. Professor Wei Longbao provided meticulous academic supervision and a strong recommendation, while continuous support from professors including Sheikh Fayez encouraged him to explore the deeper connections between technology, policy, and society with greater confidence and determination.

Throughout the application process, encouragement from faculty members and friends became an important source of support. “I am grateful to Jenny, Executive Vice Dean, and Helen, Vice Dean of the International College, for seamlessly coordinating everything throughout the process and offering constant encouragement. I also thank Professor Xu for interviewing me and believing in my application, and Len from the International Business School for first sharing this opportunity with me.” For students aspiring to reach higher international platforms, Zhejiang University's faculty members continue to provide unwavering support, helping broaden students' global perspectives and create new opportunities for future development.

Looking Back on the Qiushi Campus:

A Solid Foundation and Caring Mentorship

Reflecting on his journey from Zhejiang University to UNESCO, Shubham Swaroop speaks with deep gratitude. It was the University's solid academic foundation and supportive learning environment that gave him the confidence to pursue opportunities within an international organization.

 “ZJU's abundant academic resources and research environment deepened my understanding of digital transformation and strengthened my analytical skills. Fieldwork in rural China, together with my interactions with communities across Central Asia, helped me understand that development outcomes ultimately depend on people's lived experiences, institutions, and values. These insights continue to guide my work today.”

Life in Bangkok:

Embracing the Global Stage Through Multicultural Collaboration

Moving from the Qiushi Campus to UNESCO Bangkok marked a defining milestone in Shubham Swaroop's academic and professional journey. Within UNESCO's Social and Human Sciences Sector, he works on issues related to digital equity, intercultural dialogue, youth engagement, and AI ethics. Over the past several months, he has actively contributed to cross-sector initiatives spanning culture, education, communication, and the social sciences.

 “My supervisor, Phinith Chanthalangsy, Head of the Regional Advisors Unit for the Social and Human Sciences Sector at UNESCO Bangkok, encourages us to approach our work from a philosophical perspective—not only asking what we do, but also why we do it.” Reflecting on the deeper purpose behind every project has since become one of his guiding principles.

Beyond UNESCO itself, collaboration across the broader United Nations system has greatly broadened his horizons. During his internship, he worked closely with professionals from multiple international organizations, participating in project planning, policy research, multilateral dialogue, and international workshops. These experiences allowed him to observe first-hand how the UN system operates while witnessing the integration of diverse cultures, national perspectives, and professional expertise.

At the 2025 Inter-Regional Digital Agriculture Solutions Forum, experts from around the world gathered to discuss how digital agriculture is reshaping global food systems. Drawing upon his own research on digital villages in China, Shubham reflected on the role of mission-oriented policies, community partnerships, and innovative governance for sustainable development. “One unforgettable moment was my one-on-one conversation with Alue Dohong, Assistant Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), who emphasized the importance of young researchers contributing to the future of global food systems.” Through exchanges with experts from the FAO, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), he gained an increasingly comprehensive understanding of global digital agriculture.

During a regional training workshop on strengthening national Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) data ecosystems, participating alongside national coordinators enabled him to better understand the technical, institutional, and political challenges countries face in building reliable data systems, as well as the importance of high-quality government data for evidence-based policymaking.

On World Philosophy Day, Shubham participated in a commemorative event jointly organized by UNESCO and the French Embassy honoring philosopher Paul Ricoeur. Listening to reflections by Kim Suhyeon, Director of UNESCO Bangkok, and other distinguished speakers deepened his understanding of the enduring relevance of philosophy to contemporary dialogue, identity, and peaceful coexistence.He was also particularly impressed by a cultural tourism initiative designed to help UNESCO Member States develop tourism models that promote inclusiveness, climate resilience, and international cooperation.

One of the projects that left the greatest impression on him was the forthcoming AI Readiness Assessment Report for the Lao People's Democratic Republic. “The report came at a particularly meaningful moment, representing the collective efforts of colleagues, national partners, and international experts through multiple rounds of consultation.” Assisting with the final drafting process gave him a profound sense of accomplishment.

 “My experience at UNESCO has also taken me into fields I never imagined I would explore.” From digital agriculture and philosophical dialogue to data governance and cultural tourism, these interdisciplinary and cross-institutional collaborations have shown him the breadth, diversity, and significance of today's global development agenda.

Looking Ahead:

Growing with Purpose, Giving Back Through Action

During the final months of his internship, Shubham Swaroop continues contributing to his team while learning from colleagues across different sectors and incorporating these experiences into his doctoral research. Looking ahead, he hopes to continue working in multilateral cooperation, applying what he has learned to initiatives connecting technology, culture, and social inclusion.

As Zhejiang University's first international student intern at UNESCO, he shared the following message:

 “Start by understanding your own motivations, and remain open to interdisciplinary work. Let curiosity guide you instead of fear of the unknown. Global organizations value people who are willing to learn, listen, and participate with humility. When you prepare yourself well and approach opportunities with genuine purpose, doors often open.This experience has strengthened my belief that development is most powerful when rooted in human dignity, cultural understanding, and shared responsibility. I am grateful to Zhejiang University for supporting my journey, and to UNESCO Bangkok for providing an environment where ideas can be transformed into meaningful action.”

Strive with determination in youth. Grow through dialogue and exchange. May more Chinese and international students at Zhejiang University step confidently onto the global stage. Let the world witness the brillianceof ZJU’s spirit of “Seeking Truth and Pursuing Innovation”.