Horticulture Trainer Advisor - Volunteer in Papua New Guinea

Closing Date: 22 November 2024

Category: Agriculture & Horticultural Sustainability

 Change your scene and become a VSA Volunteer and share your experience, knowledge, and skills to transform the lives of many. Work with our partner organisation to create a fair future for all. 
 
VSA will organise and fund, flights, visas, insurance, accommodation, living allowance and utilities while on assignment. 

Please note VSA Volunteers must be a NZ citizen or permanent resident. 

Volunteering with VSA 
 
Volunteer Service Abroad (VSA) is not your typical volunteering agency, we are committed to building sustainable communities across the Pacific. If you’re an experienced agronomist, looking for an extraordinary overseas experience in the Pacific to build into your field of expertise – working collaboratively with the Department of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL), then read on, as we have an exciting opportunity in store for you!
 
Our Partner Organisation - Department of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL)

The Department of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL) of Papua New Guinea (PNG) is the national institution responsible for the oversight and development of the country's agriculture and livestock sectors. As the backbone of PNG’s economy, agriculture supports the livelihoods of a significant portion of the population and is critical to the nation’s goals for inclusive, sustainable economic growth and food security.

The Assignment

The objective of this assignment is to increase productivity, improve post-harvest practices, and reduce reliance on imports while promoting sustainable, climate resilient practices. As Horticulture Trainer/Advisor you will use your expertise to provide training and technical support to DAL staff, communities and farmers. This will be designed to enhance the quality of locally produced vegetables, while improving the productivity and competitiveness of small-scale and semi-commercial vegetable production.

The Volunteer

Are you someone who wants to make a difference, have a sense of adventure and like the challenge of being outside your comfort zone?  VSA Volunteers are technical experts who impart their skills and knowledge to the local community. You will need to be flexible, adaptable, resourceful, resilient with a passion for Aotearoa and the wider Pacific community.

We're looking for a volunteer with the following:


  • A tertiary qualification in Horticulture, Agronomy, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
  • Proven experience in horticultural production, particularly in vegetable farming and post harvest management.
  • Expertise in sustainable farming techniques, crop management, pest and disease control, and climate-smart agriculture.
  • Capacity-building skills, with experience in designing and delivering technical training to farmers and agricultural stakeholders.
  • Ability to conduct assessments and provide actionable recommendations.
  • Proficiency in mentoring, coaching, and supporting the professional development of others.

The Country

Most people living in Papua New Guinea (PNG) are Melanesian, but some are Micronesian or Polynesian. PNG has over 800 known languages although there are three official languages: Tok Pisin, English, and Hiri Motu. Numerous indigenous languages are still used by people from a society that ranges from traditional village-based life to modern urban living.

Underlying the Papua New Guinean culture is the wantok system. Wantok, or ‘one talk’, refers to the people who speak your language or your extended family/clan; a Papua New Guinean’s primary loyalty will be to their wantok.
  
The country is predominately Christian, with indigenous faith and spirituality still important to many locals.
  
The people of Papua New Guinea are famously warm and hospitable and the isolated mountain ranges are often home to unique fauna and flora found nowhere else in the world.
  

Apply Now!

Apply for this amazing opportunity through our website. For more information on this assignment, email volunteer@vsa.org.nz.



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We are looking for a volunteer with:

  • 6-9 months full time Volunteering opportunity in Papua New Guinea
  • Flights, accommodation and other expenses covered by VSA
  • Make a lasting difference across the Pacific

VSA covers flights, accommodation, insurance and some expenses. A living allowance is also provided.