Launched in 2020, CSP’s internship program provides students from 11 Lebanese universities the opportunity to gain professional and practical experience to start their careers and generate a temporary income to support their families during the current economic crisis. Salha Bou Saleh, a computer science graduate from the Islamic University, is one of 146 fresh students and/or recent graduates who have benefitted from the internship program so far. Salha is from Baasir, a remote village in Chouf, where employment and career opportunities are limited. During her internship, Salha supported the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) unit of the USAID-funded Lebanon Investment Initiative (LII) program implemented by Insure and Match (IM) Ventures. At LII, Salha gained hands-on experience, developed her communication skills, and learned new MEL techniques and approaches.

Following her internship, and as a result of her professionalism, dedication, and commitment, Salha was hired by IM Ventures as a Junior Data Analyst on April 26, 2023. To date, Salha is one of 45 interns who found long-term employment after participating in CSP’s internship program, including four who have found quality employment with implementers of USAID programs.

“Transitioning from an intern to a full-time employee is a significant milestone in my professional journey. It marks the start of a new chapter, where I’ll have greater responsibilities and a chance to make a meaningful impact”, stated Salha, now a Junior Data Analyst with IM Ventures in Lebanon.