While still a master’s student, Serhiy Dolynenko applied for an internship with the Research Service of the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s parliament. He sought hands-on experience as an analyst, hoping to conduct practical research that could make a meaningful contribution to national policy, especially during such a pivotal time.
"Throughout the internship, I felt like I was actively contributing to state policy development," says 25-year-old Serhiy. "Political decisions should be grounded in solid analysis, not just shaped by biases from specific segments of the electorate. I believe policy needs to be science-driven."
Serhiy was one of seven young professionals selected for the six-month internship with the Parliamentary Research Service, facilitated and supported by the USAID "RADA: Next Generation" Program for the second year running. USAID aims to empower young Ukrainians to participate in state institutions and influence policy.
"This is the only internship program in our parliament that occurs during the full-scale invasion," said Artem Yanchuk, Deputy Head of the Verkhovna Rada Secretariat. "It’s an excellent starting point for young professionals looking to work in the Verkhovna Rada."
Beyond providing a valuable opportunity for young people, the internship prepares to become future professional staff who would strengthen the Research Service's institutional capacity and bolster the Ukrainian parliament's analytical prowess. The Research Service aims to provide MPs with objective data and high-quality analysis, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of parliamentary decisions that impact Ukrainians' daily lives.
"I was part of a strategic foresight project, forecasting long-term socio-economic trends for Ukraine," says Serhiy, describing the experience. "Working on these scenarios broadens your perspective. Today, you're analyzing the potential impact of opening a soybean processing plant; tomorrow, you're exploring the implications of tax policy changes. I was surprised, for example, by the research I did on the pet products market—it turns out Ukraine has major growth potential there and could become a key competitor in the EU. This type of analysis should guide political decision-making for our country's future."
Between May and October 2024, the seven interns prepared over 40 analytical reports, using more than 200 information sources. They also supported the Research Service by comilling a database of 1,200 legislative documents from various countries.
"We had high expectations for you, and you met them all. You've been invaluable to us. Once again, together with the USAID "RADA: Next Generation" Program, we selected the best youth," said Lesia Vaolevska, head of the Research Service, during the certificate ceremony. "I hope this internship gave you insights into how our parliament works, the role of the Research Service, and the quality of analysis it provides. Your contributions have helped us improve. The youth perspective always brings fresh, progressive ideas."
Serhiy echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the unique perspectives youth bring to governance. "For example, it can be difficult for civil servants who graduated decades ago to fully understand and address today's student issues. The challenges were different back then, and we all have our own biases. That's why young people must take responsibility and promote their causes, advocating for solutions that reflect current realities."
Lesia Vaolevska noted that two interns stood out and received job offers to join the Research Service team: Serhiy Dolynenko, who will be working in the foresight department, and 21-year-old Tetiana Seheda, a master's student in philology and public policy and governance, who also finds time for volunteer work.
Since November 1, Tetiana has been working in the Training Center of the Research Service, which offers professional development for members and staff of the Verkhovna Rada. She recalls feeling nervous at the beginning of the internship due to her limited experience in political and legal analysis. However, the training provided by the USAID "RADA: Next Generation" Program and the mentorship from Research Service staff quickly developed her confidence and expertise. Both interns agreed that the best part of their experience was the connections they made with their peers, mentors, and professionals.
"Motivation is the key," Tetiana shares. "This internship is a real chance to be part of governance and an incredible start to a public sector career. Ukraine has all the resources to become a strong, prosperous state. If our generation is committed to bettering ourselves and our country, we have every reason to be optimistic about the future."