2025 JPO Orientation Programme -I- Evaluation

2025 JPO Orientation Programme

20- 31 January 2025

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DATA

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2025 JPO Orientation Programme

Agencies

Duty Stations

JPOs

Nationalities

Donor States

19

56

39

Years of Experience within the UN System

27%

Male

73%

Female

2025 JPO Orientation Programme

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Quantitative Feedback

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evaluation results

• Achievement of overall objective was rated 4.4 out of 6

• Administrative and technical support was rated 5.4 out of 6

• Overall satisfaction with the course was rated 4.7 out of 6

• Applying the learning acquired through the course at work was rated 4.7 out of 6

• 100% recommended the programme to other colleagues

• UNSSC Facilitation Team in terms of professional skills, facilitation, teaching methodology and effectiveness was rated 5.4 out of 6

Online Learning Path Ratings

4.7

4.9

4.6

5.1

Intention to Apply Learning

11%

23%

31%

35%

Facilitation and Teaching Methodology

21%

48%

31%

Overall Objective Achieved

Fully

Almost fully

Significantly

By the end of the programme, JPOs will enhance skills and competencies that will be key to serve in the UN System and will be better equipped to fulfil their roles as JPOs.

Residential Week Ratings

5.0

4.5

5.1

4.4

4.5

Specific Learning Objectives

Demonstrate knowledge of the opportunities and challenges of the UN System’s international civil service to prepare for the upcoming placement.

Develop collaborative and interactive skills to effectively work as leaders and managers within multicultural teams in the UN system.

Form a system-wide network of peers and professional contacts for future support, consultation, and available resources.

Overall Relevance of the Programme

Extremely

Significantly

Moderately

Overall Satisfaction with the Programme

Fully

Almost fully

Significantly

Recommendation of the Programme

Highest Rated Sessions

EQ in the Workplace (David Rowlands)

Becoming an International Civil Servant (Jan Vandemoortele)

Team Building: One Beat (Cristiano Botti)

Facilitation, Administration, and Technical Support

The UNSSC Facilitation Team in terms of professional skills and effectiveness

Administrative and Technical support

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Evaluation Quotes

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Evaluation Quotes: online learning path

"The interactive nature of the webinars was especially valuable, fostering an environment of knowledge-sharing and collaboration among participants. The practical examples and case studies further enriched the discussions, bridging theoretical concepts with real-world applications in the UN context."

"I very much appreciated having guests speakers sharing their personal stories and views, especially the Country Representative from the first two sessions."

"I really liked the fact that speakers were always able to share their personal experiences as JPOs including sharing practical information and suggestions that might help us all during our future assignments and career development. 3rd Webinar: I really liked the fact that the first round of break rooms was randomly selected by UNSCC colleagues because, to be honest, I probably wouldn't have picked the break room I got in (Ombudsman) and it was super interesting and useful in the end. Thanks a lot. 4th Webinar: The last couple of tips provided by speakers before the end of the sessions (HR, career development and networking, managing expectations and proactively looking for better opportunities in case our JPO experience doesn't really satisfy us that much) were great. Very much appreciated."

Evaluation Quotes: Residential Week

"Thanks a million for this wonderful training. I loved the energy of the UNSSC team; I feel everyone was very competent, and Donna is an excellent moderator. I feel that through the training, I significantly improved my soft skills and learned new things related to them."

"Exchanging during the course with fellows JPO with prior UN experience as well as several topics covered during the plenary/clinics were extremely useful to give an overview of how it is working for the UN as a civil servant on a very practical manner (special focus on the numerous challenges). I'm finishing this training with so much more information than before and I think I am overall more prepared (or at least aware) of what could come along in the next two years."

"Incredible experience meeting so many amazing Junior Professional Officers! Brilliant facilitation, inspiring young experts, and a true sense of community that will last beyond this week. Grateful for the learning, connections, and the leadership journey ahead. Thank you, UNSCC! #FutureLeaders #JPO #UNSCC."

"All in all the training was a success!!! The UNSSC facilitation as well as that of the different trainers were impeccable. Implementing smart techniques to keep us engaged, awake (body movement) really paid off. Well done and thank you for your kindness :)."

Evaluation Quotes - Residential Week

"I really liked the Lego Serious Play; it was a completely new idea to me, and I love how it promotes discussion and thinking both as an individual and in a group. I learned a lot from the previous JPOs."

"I extremely appreciated the historical aspects presented by Jan Vandemoortele. The team-building exercise with One Beat was amazing. I also really liked David Rowlands' tips on communication and public speaking."

"As a JPO participant in this programme, I found the hands-on learning and practical experience in international development work to be the most rewarding aspect. Working on projects, engaging with field experts, and contributing to meaningful initiatives allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges."

"I really liked the transversality of the skills acquired. I really loved the Intro to the UN session done by Jan, who provided history and context which wasn't necessarily "new" to the majority of us, but which he provided with such a personal twist that I really appreciated it. I also loved the EQ day, as well as the Negotiation clinic. Really really excellent presenters and content."

Evaluation Quotes - Residential Week

"There are honestly many different things that I enjoyed about the program. However, one thing that I will point out (because it surprised me) is that I realized things I was not even aware of before, exploring my "blind spot". Before joining, I thought I was an excellent communicator and a good team member. Especially through the Zin Obelisk exercise and managing up and influencing others, I realized that I still have a lot to learn from my peers and trainers to improve these skills, something that I believe I have already improved thanks to this training week."

"I think the most powerful take home is to approach my new UN career with a growth mindset and with a strong mental focus. It's easy to fall in the trap of habits and be overwhelmed with day-to-day tasks. Driving my UN journey, keeping awareness of the context will be a winning mindset, and the network and skills we built will also be key assets."

"The program is extremely well planned and organized. I was very impressed with all the logistical arrangements and rarely had any questions."

Evaluation Quotes - Networking

"One of the strengths of the programme is the opportunities it presents for building networks/socialising in an organic way (not a forced networking way that can sometimes happen at these events). Sitting with different peers every day, at breaks and lunchtime was great. The city tour and dinner were great."

"I enjoyed the mix of methodologies, the different learning and networking opportunities, the learning by playing, the group work to process notions, and the possibility to learn from one another on topics of preference and relevance during breaks. I liked the fact that we were exposed to different groups and people every day."

"The training creates an amazing opportunity to build a support network of JPOs across the world who are navigating the systems and processes of the UN."

"I really liked the formal and informal moments of connection, sharing and networking with peers."

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Testimonials

Manuela Maria Aiello, UNCDF

"This training has been unlike any conventional orientation training I’ve experienced - no competition, just genuine collaboration in a relaxed and open environment. Connecting with incredible people has been the true highlight, and I really hope we’ll reunite someday!"

Programme Analyst, Senegal, Italian JPO

Eva Brocard, WHO

"Thank you for organizing this comprehensive training, it is challenging to make it hybrid. I appreciated the great thoughtfulness in making this very interactive and collaborative."

Technical Officer,Switzerland, French JPO

Federico Calciolari, CEB

"The program helped me gain confidence where I needed it, and also helped me question my overconfidence in areas where it had been creeping up a bit too much. That's a gift I wish everyone experienced at least once in their careers!"

JPO in Inter-Agency Coordination CEB, Switzerland, Italian JPO

Giorgio Chisari, IOM

"There is nothing better than meeting up in person and connecting with similar people who will end up working in similar places, even if they are on the other side of the world. The course gives us the opportunity to create meaningful connections that will be useful during our assignments and afterwards. We are able to create deep connections based on reciprocity and kindness."

Project Officer - Health Promotion and Assistance, Switzerland, Italian JPO

Francesca Costantini, UN RCO

"This training provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on the UN, our impact, and our role within it. While we are far from perfect, as professionals and as an organization, it is an honor to contribute from within, striving to enhance its effectiveness. I take pride in being part of those who go beyond mere criticism, dedicating themselves fully to making a real difference for a better world."

JPO in Humanitarian and Emergency Coordination, Uganda, Italian JPO

Marco Gervasi, UNIDO

"It feels like for a week everything is structured to make you feel relaxed, joyful, and mentally ready to learn. It was such a unique training that is rarely experienced before."

JPO, Decarbonization and Sustainable Energy Unit,Austria, Italian JPO

Savyuth Ky, ICC

"My experience in the JPO program in 2025 has been incredibly enriching and transformative. The hands-on learning opportunities, interaction with field experts, and exposure to diverse UN agencies have deepened my understanding of international development work. This program has not only enhanced my professional skills but also fostered personal growth, especially in cross-cultural collaboration and communication. I am grateful for this experience, which has broadened my perspective and prepared me to contribute effectively to global challenges in the future."

Associate Investigator, Netherlands, DCC Trust Fund JPO

Rossella Rubini, UN RCO

"Thank you for an incredible week of stimulating connections, useful advice, and fun activities! I have truly benefited from the teachings and practical activities with amazing people whom I am now delighted to call my colleagues and friends! The speakers were a great balance of professionalism, technical knowledge, and engagement—without forgetting humor and fun."

JPO in Sustainable Development Coordination, Guinea, Italian JPO

Thank you!