Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Is Hiring A Junior Programme Assistant APPLY NOW
Background
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and food security. Its Latin motto, fiat panis, translates to “let there be bread”. It was founded on 16 October 1945.
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About FAO
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is an international organization that works to eliminate hunger, improve nutrition, enhance agricultural productivity, and promote sustainable agriculture worldwide. Established in 1945, the FAO is one of the specialized agencies of the United Nations system.
The FAO’s main goal is to achieve food security for all people and ensure that they have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead healthy lives. The organization works closely with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to address issues related to agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and rural development.
Here are some key aspects of the FAO’s work:
- Policy advice and technical assistance: The FAO provides member countries with policy advice, technical expertise, and capacity-building support to help them develop and implement sustainable agricultural and rural development strategies.
- Knowledge and data sharing: The FAO collects and analyzes data on food and agriculture, conducts research, and publishes reports to provide valuable insights and information to member countries, policymakers, and the public.
- Emergency response and resilience building: The FAO plays a crucial role in emergency response and recovery efforts in times of natural disasters, conflicts, and other crises. It helps affected communities restore their agricultural livelihoods, strengthen resilience, and rebuild food systems.
- Sustainable agriculture and natural resource management: The FAO promotes sustainable agricultural practices that conserve natural resources, enhance productivity, and minimize environmental impacts. It supports efforts to improve land and water management, protect biodiversity, and mitigate climate change in the agricultural sector.
- Partnerships and coordination: The FAO collaborates closely with other United Nations agencies, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector to leverage resources, share knowledge, and coordinate efforts in addressing global food security and agricultural challenges.
The FAO works towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger. It supports countries in aligning their national policies and programs with the SDGs and provides guidance on sustainable agriculture and food systems.
The FAO’s headquarters is located in Rome, Italy, and it operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization is governed by its member countries through the FAO Conference, which meets biennially to discuss and make decisions on major policy issues. The Director-General, elected by member countries, leads the FAO’s operations and represents the organization at the global level.
Overall, the FAO plays a vital role in promoting food security, sustainable agriculture, and rural development, with the aim of eradicating hunger and improving the livelihoods of people around the world.
Why work at FAO
Working at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) offers several compelling reasons for individuals passionate about addressing global food security, sustainable agriculture, and rural development. Here are some reasons why people choose to work at FAO:
- Mission-driven work: FAO’s core mission is to achieve global food security, eradicate hunger, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture. By working at FAO, you have the opportunity to make a tangible and meaningful impact on the lives of millions of people, particularly those who are most vulnerable.
- Global reach and impact: FAO operates in over 130 countries, working directly with governments, local communities, and partner organizations worldwide. This global reach provides the opportunity to work on diverse projects, collaborate with international experts, and contribute to addressing food security challenges on a global scale.
- Multidisciplinary approach: FAO’s work spans various areas, including agriculture, fisheries, forestry, nutrition, and rural development. This multidisciplinary approach allows you to gain exposure to a wide range of issues and develop a holistic understanding of the complex challenges facing food systems.
- Professional growth and learning: FAO is committed to the professional development of its staff. It offers training programs, knowledge-sharing platforms, and opportunities for career advancement. Working at FAO provides a stimulating and dynamic environment in which you can enhance your skills, expand your knowledge, and grow as a professional.
- Collaborative and inclusive work culture: FAO values collaboration, teamwork, and diversity. It brings together professionals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and expertise to foster a collaborative work environment. Working at FAO provides opportunities to learn from and collaborate with colleagues from around the world, bringing together different perspectives and approaches.
- Cutting-edge research and innovation: FAO is at the forefront of research and innovation in the fields of agriculture, food security, and rural development. It collaborates with leading institutions and experts to develop innovative solutions and approaches to address challenges such as climate change, sustainable farming practices, and food waste reduction.
- International exposure and travel opportunities: FAO’s global presence offers opportunities for international assignments and travel. Working in different countries and cultural contexts allows you to broaden your horizons, deepen your understanding of global issues, and develop cross-cultural competencies.
- Competitive compensation and benefits: FAO offers competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits packages, and job security as an organization within the United Nations system. It adheres to international standards and provides a supportive work environment that values employee well-being.
It’s important to note that working at FAO, like any international organization, can also come with challenges, such as complex bureaucratic processes, demanding workloads, and the need to navigate diverse cultural and political environments. However, for individuals committed to addressing global food security and sustainable agriculture, the opportunity to work at FAO can be highly rewarding and impactful.
Junior Programme Assistant
- Closure Date: May 25, 2024, at 11:59:00 PM
- Organizational Unit: FACMB – FAO Representation in Cambodia
- Job Type: Non-staff opportunities
- Type of Requisition: PSA (Personal Services Agreement)
- Grade Level: Not specified
- Primary Location: Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Duration: 120 days (6 months)
Tasks and responsibilities
The Junior Programme Assistant will:
• Support in collecting and analyzing data related to food, agriculture, and trade;
• Support in producing concept notes, talking points, technical briefs and reports;
• Support development and implementation of initiatives on data and digital transformation in agriculture;
• Support in arranging missions including development of mission programmes and appointments with stakeholders;
• Support in organizing trainings and workshops and reporting;
• Participate in and report on bilateral and multilateral meetings, workshops and coordination meetings with government counterparts and development partners;
• Support recruitment of national and international consultants;
• Act as FAO’s focal point for youth and Indigenous People;
• Undertake other related tasks at required by the FAO Representative to achieve activities above.
CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING
Minimum Requirements
• University degree (BA) in agricultural economics, digital economy, or other relevant fields.
• At least 2 years of working experience in the relevant field with excellent working knowledge of relevant issues related to project support and project implementation as well data collection, data analysis.
• Working knowledge (level C) of English
• National of Cambodia or resident in the country with a valid work permit.
FAO Core Competencies
• Results focus
• Teamwork
• Communication
• Building effective relationships
• Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement
Technical/Functional Skills
• Research management including data collection, data analysis and reporting.
• Project management, administration, and operations support.
• Proficient in relevant computer applications such as word processing tools and spreadsheets, data and analytical information management.
