31 March 2025

From December 2024 to February 2025, 857 students from across the Universitas 21 (U21) network participated in the Sustainable Micro-Internship programme. Demonstrating their dedication to gaining real-world experience, 90% of students who completed the programme successfully earned the programme’s micro-credential. This initiative continues to provide invaluable opportunities for students to enhance their global employability while making a tangible impact on society. 

Achieving equitable and inclusive global engagement is a core commitment of U21.

We are particularly proud that 36% of this year’s programme completers came from underrepresented backgrounds.  

This milestone reflects the success of our targeted efforts to encourage participation from diverse groups. The inspiring stories shared by previous participants and the dedication of university staff in promoting these opportunities have significantly contributed to this achievement. 

[The Sustainable Micro Internship programme] helped me learn how to work with people from different cultural backgrounds and improved my ability to lead in diverse situations. I’ve gained practical leadership skills, especially through working on real-world challenges with an international team… This programme has really prepared me to face global challenges and stand out as a leader.

-Student participant, University of Johannesburg 

The Sustainable Micro-Internship programme goes beyond traditional internships by offering students the opportunity to work collaboratively in cross-cultural teams. Participants tackle real-world challenges presented by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and charities, all of which are committed to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through this initiative, students gain hands-on experience in problem-solving, innovation, and cross-border collaboration, strengthening their future employability outcomes as well as their international outlook.

 Sustainable Micro-Internship Survey Feedback

Before starting the programme and upon completion of the programme,
participants were asked to score themselves 1 – 6, where 1 represents strongly disagree and 6 represents strongly agree, against a range of criteria

Question	Pre-Programme	Post-Programme
I feel (better) prepared to lead a project set by a leader in the workplace	4.43 out of 6	5.1 out of 6
I feel (more) confident collaborating internationally	4.78 out of 6	5.31 out of 6

A standout example from this year’s programme is Iveta Pudilova, CEO of National Neurodiversity Training. As a former U21 student and recipient of U21 RISE seed funding, Iveta’s organisation now supports neurodiversity inclusion in education and workplaces. Hosting a group of students for a micro-internship, she provided them with the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing development of inclusive training solutions. Her journey exemplifies the enduring impact of U21’s global network in fostering both student and organisational growth. 

It was great to host as part of  the Sustainable Micro Internships programme. Everyone was incredibly passionate and eager to learn, which was lovely to see. The students had some fantastic ideas and insightful contributions.

-Iveta Pudilova, CEO of National Neurodiversity Training and Happy Autistic Lady

As we look ahead, U21 remains dedicated to expanding access to transformative learning experiences through our this and other programmes we run. By connecting students with mission-driven organisations, we continue to nurture future leaders equipped to address global challenges and drive positive change. 

For further insights into the programme’s impact and participant experiences, you can explore the full Sustainable Micro-Internships Report.