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Technology and Innovation

The Technology & Innovation internship stream empowers students to apply their technical skills to solve real-world challenges faced by communities, institutions and local governments in Nepal. This program is designed for those who believe in the power of innovation to drive meaningful, inclusive change.

Interns work with startups, local tech teams, social enterprises, and sometimes directly with municipal bodies to develop solutions that address pressing social and developmental needs. Projects may include building digital platforms for public health, helping local governments digitize services and records, creating user-friendly tools for remote education or civic engagement, and prototyping tech solutions to improve access to information and services in low-resource settings.

Whether it’s using open-source tools for community mapping, designing mobile apps for farmers, or enhancing e-governance systems, interns in this stream learn how to make technology locally relevant, accessible, and impactful. The focus is not just on innovation for innovation’s sake, it’s about using tech as a tool to solve real problems and create scalable, sustainable change.

This internship is ideal for students in computer science, information systems, engineering, UX/UI, and related fields who are eager to explore the intersection of technology, society, and human-centered design.

Potential Projects:

  • Digitization Solutions for Local Government
  • Mobile Apps for Education or Public Health
  • Community Tech for Access & Inclusion
  • Open-Source Mapping & Data Tools
  • Smart Solutions for Urban or Rural Challenges

Business & Social Entrepreneurship

The Finance & Social Entrepreneurship internships focus on equipping students with the tools to drive meaningful change in both the business and social sectors. These internships provide a unique opportunity for individuals to work with startups, social enterprises, corporates, and financial institutions that are integrating business strategies with social impact goals. Interns will gain exposure to the world of sustainable finance, microfinance, and impact investing, learning how to blend profit-making strategies with the aim of addressing social, environmental, and economic challenges.

Interns in this stream will work on a range of projects including financial analysis, business strategy development, and building financial models for social enterprises, while also collaborating on initiatives that promote social good. This is ideal for those passionate about financial inclusion, social justice, and innovation in the finance world, and who want to contribute to solutions that can support marginalized communities while driving economic growth. Students will also be exposed to real-world financial services, investment opportunities, and innovative business models that prioritize sustainability and community welfare.

By combining finance skills with a deep commitment to social change, this internship stream helps build the next generation of financial leaders who will be equipped to create both value and positive societal impact. Interns will collaborate with local and international teams, receive mentorship, and play a hands-on role in developing strategies for sustainable growth and social progress.

Potential Programs:

  • Impact Investment Internship
  • Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Strategy Internship
  • Corporate Finance Internship
  • Private Equity Internship

Strategic Communications & Marketing

The Strategic Communications & Marketing internship stream focuses on helping organizations build and maintain strong relationships with their audiences through effective communication strategies and marketing initiatives. Interns in this stream will collaborate with teams to develop and execute campaigns that drive engagement, brand awareness, and growth.

Interns will have the chance to work on a variety of tasks, from content creation and social media management to strategic messaging and branding. Whether it’s crafting compelling narratives, developing marketing materials, or analyzing campaign performance, this internship offers an opportunity to hone your skills in the dynamic world of communications and marketing.

This stream is ideal for those looking to explore the intersection of creativity and strategy, as interns will contribute to shaping the voice of organizations while learning the latest trends in digital marketing, content strategy, and audience engagement. It’s an excellent platform for students looking to launch a career in marketing or communications, with real-world experience in impactful projects.

Potential Programs:

  • Brand Strategy & Messaging Development
  • Public Relations & Media Outreach
  • Social Media Management & Analytics
  • Content Creation & Strategy

Data, Research & Insight

The Data, Research & Insights internship stream is designed for individuals passionate about harnessing the power of data to drive informed decisions in diverse industries such as economics, urban planning, environmental studies, and more. Interns will work with organizations to collect, analyze, and interpret data, translating it into actionable insights that can shape strategies, policies, and business decisions.

Through this stream, interns will gain exposure to various methodologies in data collection, statistical analysis, and research techniques. They will have the opportunity to explore a variety of topics, including climate change, economic forecasting, urban development, and public policy, working alongside experts and contributing to real-world projects. By conducting research, producing reports, and utilizing data visualization tools, interns will develop critical analytical and problem-solving skills, which are highly valued in industries such as consulting, government, and non-profits.

This stream is ideal for individuals interested in data science, social research, urban planning, environmental sustainability, or economic policy. The internships will provide a comprehensive understanding of how data-driven decisions are made and their significant impact on shaping our world.

Potential Programs:

  • Climate Change Research Internship
  • Economic Research Internship
  • Urban Planning & Development Internship
  • Data Visualization Internship

Digital Health & Tech for Impact

The Digital Health & Tech for Impact internship stream encompasses a diverse range of projects at the intersection of technology, healthcare, and digital innovation. Interns will have the opportunity to work with organizations that leverage technology to solve challenges across industries, from healthcare solutions to cybersecurity and AI integration. This track offers hands-on experience in creating and implementing digital tools that drive positive change.

Interns may be involved in developing AI-driven technologies, enhancing cybersecurity protocols, designing mobile applications, or optimizing digital health platforms. The focus is on using technology to improve user experience, streamline processes, and protect sensitive data. This is ideal for those passionate about tech’s potential to revolutionize various sectors, including health, business, and security.

Working with tech teams and innovators, interns will gain practical experience in emerging fields like cybersecurity, AI, and digital transformation. It’s an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in high-impact tech projects while building a skillset that can be applied across multiple industries.

Potential Programs:

  • Health Information Systems Internship
  • Cybersecurity for Digital Systems Internship
  • Fintech Innovations with Blockchain and AI Internship
  • AI and Robotics in Business Automation Internship

Tourism & Hospitality

Interns in this stream have the opportunity to work with leading hotel chains and tourism organizations, such as Marriott, Hyatt, and local boutique hotels in Nepal. This immersive experience allows students to gain practical insights into the hospitality industry, from hotel operations and guest services to strategic marketing and tourism management.

Interns will collaborate directly with hotel management teams, contributing to various departments like front desk operations, event planning, housekeeping, food and beverage services, and more. They will be involved in ensuring top-notch customer experiences, managing hotel resources efficiently, and learning about the challenges and opportunities within the Nepali tourism sector.

This program offers a unique opportunity to explore the tourism landscape in Nepal, where interns can engage with both international and local brands, learning industry best practices while understanding the cultural and environmental nuances that shape the hospitality experience in Nepal. Whether involved in marketing campaigns, operations, or event management, interns will gain hands-on experience that opens doors to a successful career in global hospitality and tourism.

  • Hotel Operations Internship
  • Sustainability in Tourism Internship
  • Culinary Arts Internship
  • Travel & Tour Operator Internship

Ethical Volunteering Matters

Offered by Hands-On Institute, our internship program is rooted in the principle of ‘Do No Harm.’ Every placement is intentionally designed to be mutually enriching, benefiting both the intern and the host community. We work closely with local partners to ensure that all internships are locally owned, culturally respectful, and built for long-term sustainability. Because even with the best intentions, unstructured volunteering can cause unintended harm. We make sure yours creates meaningful impact.

Sample Program Itinerary

Week 1: Orientation

Nepali language sessions, cultural immersion, and site introductions

Weeks 2–4/6: Internship placement

Fieldwork/project execution, and ongoing mentorship

Final Week

Reflection, presentations, evaluation, and a closing cultural event

Benefits

  • Real-world learning in global context
  • Personalized mentorship and career development
  • Cross-cultural communication and adaptability
  • Strong resume credentials with international exposure
  • Safe, supportive and structured experience

Logistics & Support

Placement matching
24/7 in-country support
Accommodation (homestay or hotels)
Local orientation and language training
Cultural excursions and weekend trips
Airport pickup and emergency assistance

Other Internship Pathway

Social Impact & Community Engagement Internships

Contribute grassroots efforts addressing social, environmental and cultural sources in Nepal.