Volunteer Opportunities

REMOTE ASSISTANCE: Training of Trainers on Fruit and Vegetable Processing and Preservation

Winrock International requests the support of a Senegal-based, national Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer and an American (remote) Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer for an 18- day volunteer assignment located in Keur Momar Sarr, Louga, Senegal. The volunteers will work together to train the Community Agricultural Domain of Keur Momar Sarr’ (DAC KMS) trainers and Agriculture Entrepreneurs Groups, as well as develop a syllabus in good practices and improved processing techniques and technologies, including how to process fruits and vegetables, while maintaining the produce’s flavor, with natural methods following food safety and hygienic practices. The DAC is especially interested in making homemade preserves, jams, juice, and concentrate juice. They would also like to learn about drying techniques, processing, and storing of okra, tomato, onion, hibiscus, baobab, eggplant, hot pepper, cucumber, etc. The national volunteer will conduct the training/technical assistance in person, with the U.S. volunteer participating remotely. 

The US volunteer should have the following qualifications and background: 

• University degree in agriculture, food science, or related field 

• Experience using modern and efficient equipment for fruits and vegetable processing 

• Ten years' experience in fruit and vegetable processing, including experience training others in this topic 

• Ability to remotely work with a local volunteer to train women groups 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills 

• French language skills preferred, but not mandatory 

• Proficiency with platforms such as Zoom, WhatsApp, and/or Microsoft Teams to participate in or facilitate training

Summary of US volunteer role: 

• The US volunteer will discuss with the local volunteer to coordinate the technical assistance. Also, s/he will be providing the training materials to help the local volunteer deliver the in-person training.

***As part of the Farmer-to-Farmer Consortium, this assignment is made possible through USAID funding. In accordance to USAID guidelines, any candidates submitted for consideration under this project must have a valid US passport or Green Card.***