OSCE supports Parliamentary Intern programme in Kyrgyzstan
BISHKEK, 11 September 2014 – Twelve university students completed a three-month internship programme at the Parliament of Kyrgyz Republic today. The Parliamentary Internship program, in its third year, is managed by the American Councils for International Education (ACTR/ACCELS), and supported by the OSCE Centre in Bishkek.
The students served in a variety of committees and departments, based on their backgrounds and strengths. The internships are designed to build their capacity for work on this area, and some students were given specific tasks, such improving the website.
“Providing students with a unique hands-on experience of the Kyrgyzstan’s parliamentary democracy and its rules and procedures, the programme benefits not only the students but also the country in meeting its commitment in youth inclusion,” said Diana Digol, Institution Building Officer at the OSCE Centre in Bishkek. “I am confident that the experience will help young people to become responsible citizens using their knowledge and skills for a better future of their country.”
Asel Temirbekova, a student who took part in the scheme, said: “My experience was important because I improved my communication skills and developed an excellent network of people. The main accomplishment is that I am going to continue my internship. I never imagined it would be so difficult and sometimes slow to process certain matters within the public sector. It seems much easier from the outside.”
Members of the Kyrgyz Parliament, heads of American University of Central Asia, OSCE Academy representatives, partner organizations and the interns’ direct supervisors attended the closing ceremony, where interns were presented with certificates.
The group of students and interns was chosen from the senior-year students of the American University of Central Asia and graduate students at the OSCE Academy in Bishkek. Students were selected for participation through an open competition in which they were asked to demonstrate their motivation as well as their knowledge of the system of governance and current developments in the country.