Trainers: Agricultural and Irrigation
Call for CVs (Trainers): Agricultural and Irrigation Best Practices, and Climate Change Adaptation
About CNFA:
CNFA is a not-for-profit international agricultural development organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. and dedicated to empowering farmers and rural entrepreneurs to improve their livelihoods and increase their incomes. CNFA assists smallholders to increase household-level food security and nutrition through improved agricultural practices, introduction of new varieties, diversification of crop production, food preservation and storage, development of farmer-based organizations, and strengthened linkages to markets. CNFA has a track record of implementing successful agricultural development programs in 47 countries.
Project Description:
CNFA is inviting applications from qualified candidates for 6 Trainers for the Quality Technologies Revitalizing Agriculture (Q’tra). The purpose of this USAID Activity will be to work with farmers in the West Bank and Gaza (WBG) to improve climate-resilient conservation and management of freshwater resources and associated ecosystems by increasing the availability, quality, and environmental resilience of drinking water supply sources. The duration of this Activity spans five years, from September 2023 to September 2028
Scope of Work
CNFA is seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Trainers specializing in Agricultural and Irrigation Best Practices, and Climate Change Adaptation. The Trainer will be responsible for developing and delivering comprehensive training programs to educate farmers, agricultural professionals, and stakeholders on smart irrigation, water quality, water conservation and management, climate change adaptation strategies, and resilient agricultural practices. This role underscores the importance of training agricultural professionals on sustainable practices and climate change adaptation strategies, while also detailing the necessary qualifications and preferred skills for candidates, with potential adjustments based on specific Q’tra requirements and the role’s scope.
The training will be delivered in an interactive friendly format, utilizing lectures, group discussion, presentation and participatory methods to engage all the participants. During the contracting period, Q’tra will focus on five main Training Modules as follows below:
Module 1: Basic Climate Change Training
This module offers a comprehensive introduction to Q’tra interventions designed to enhance water conservation and quality for farmers. It includes detailed descriptions of each intervention, such as pond lining, computerized systems, low-flow emitters, electromagnetic ionizers, sand filters, and hydroponics. Each section defines the intervention, explains its mechanisms, and outlines its contributions to addressing climate change. Additionally, it highlights the specific challenges these technologies can resolve for farmers, thereby improving their efficiency and sustainability in water management.
Module 2: Advanced Climate Change Training
This advanced module addresses fertilizer management strategies to enhance agricultural efficiency. It includes the transition from traditional 4L, 6L, and 8L drippers to more efficient 1L and 2L drippers, and the reduction of chemical pesticides through Pesticide Evaluation Report and Safer Use Action Plan (PERSUAP) guidelines for optimized dosage, emphasizing cost efficiency and environmental benefits. The module also covers Integrated Pest Management (IPM) as an alternative to conventional herbicides and pesticides, promoting natural predators and crop rotation. Additionally, it discusses the benefits and maintenance of fertigation systems, and the learning curve for effective implementation. A cost-benefit analysis for all crops using earning statements is also provided.
Module 3: School Module “Training Module for School Participants on Eco-Culture and Climate Change”
This training program is designed to provide 10th and 11th grade students with a comprehensive understanding of eco-culture and climate change. Initially targeting private schools, the program aims to expand to public schools in subsequent phases. The curriculum includes interactive workshops, field trips, and guest lectures to engage students and enhance their learning experience. By the end of the module, students will have a solid foundation in environmental science and practical skills to promote sustainability in their communities.
Module 4: Awareness College Session in Hall “Training Course on Modern Irrigation Water Technologies”
This module offers a comprehensive overview of modern irrigation water technologies designed to enhance water conservation and quality for farmers. It includes detailed descriptions of various interventions such as computerized systems, low-flow emitters, electromagnetic ionizers, sand filters, and hydroponics. Each section defines intervention, explains its mechanisms, and highlights its role in mitigating climate change. The course aims to provide college students, particularly those in agricultural programs, with the knowledge and skills necessary to implement these technologies effectively, thereby improving agricultural efficiency and sustainability.
Module 5: College Module “Training Program on Computerized Irrigation Systems”
The program is designed for agricultural college students and engineers, focusing on the introduction and technical training of computerized irrigation systems. It begins with an overview of the basics and importance of these systems in modern agriculture, followed by detailed descriptions of key components such as sensors, controllers, and software. The technical training component includes step-by-step guidance on system setup, calibration, and configuration for optimal performance. Software training covers navigating the user interface and using tools for data analysis to make informed irrigation decisions. Field demonstrations provide on-site examples of these systems in action and review successful case studies highlighting their impact on water conservation and crop yields. Finally, the program addresses the environmental impact, emphasizing how computerized irrigation systems contribute to efficient water use and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Tasks:
The Duties and Responsibilities for the Trainer are outlined below:
- Define the objectives of the training modules, including expected outcomes and deliverables.
- Review and develop the curriculum for each training module as outlined in the module descriptions.
- Create comprehensive training materials for each module as specified in the descriptions.
- Conduct workshops, seminars, and hands-on training sessions for farmers, agricultural workers, and other Q’tra stakeholders.
- Clearly outline the roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders involved in the training sessions.
- Identify the resources needed to deliver the training sessions, including materials, logistics, equipment, and other necessary support.
- Coordinate the scheduling of training sessions with the Q’tra team, considering the availability of participants and facilitators.
- Incorporate case studies, field demonstrations, and participatory learning techniques to enhance the effectiveness of the training.
- Assess participant learning outcomes and provide feedback to enhance training programs. This includes creating pre- and post-training assessments for each module.
- Prepare, follow up and submit an attendance sheet, high quality pictures, and evaluation analysis for each training session.
- Maintain and regularly update Q’tra trainee’s database.
- Collaborate with subject matter experts, researchers, and stakeholders to ensure the training content reflects the latest advancements and best practices in agriculture and climate science.
- Support Q’tra technical team in developing training manual (guide).
- Support Q’tra technical team in providing ongoing technical assistance and support to farmers, helping them implement new practices and troubleshoot issues.
- Other duties as required.
جميع الحقوق محفوظة لموقع جوبس.
Qualifications:
- Relevant Expertise: A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Agriculture, Irrigation) or equivalent professional experience.
- Exceptional Communication & Facilitation Skills: Demonstrates strong communication, interpersonal, and facilitation skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences.
- Cultural Competence: Possesses a deep understanding of the cultural context and sensitivities of the target communities, exhibiting respect for local norms and values.
- Language Proficiency: Fluency in both spoken and written Arabic is required.
- Expertise in Agricultural Training: In-depth knowledge of developing and delivering comprehensive training programs on smart irrigation, water quality, conservation, management, climate change adaptation, and resilient agricultural practices for farmers, agricultural professionals, and stakeholders.
- Community Engagement: Proven experience working with community-based organizations, building trust, and fostering strong relationships with local stakeholders.
- Data Collection & Analysis: Skilled in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to drive program improvement and ensure accurate reporting.
- Experience with International NGOs: Previous experience collaborating with USAID or similar INGOs, particularly in the West Bank or Gaza, is highly desirable.
- Local Insight: Thorough familiarity with the specific needs, challenges, and dynamics of farmers and other targeted groups within the local context.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or protected veteran status. CNFA takes affirmative action in support of its policy to advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.
Only those candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted.
CNFA IS PROUD TO BE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER It is the policy of CNFA to provide equal employment opportunity to all persons, regardless of age, race, religion, color, national origin, gender identity, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, political affiliation, marital status, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, membership or non-membership in an employee organization, veteran status, or on the basis of personal favoritism or other non-merit factors, except where otherwise provided by law.