Brief Description:

DURATION: 12 months

EXPECTED DEPARTURE DATE:
Departure date is contingent upon completion of administrative file and approval of visa. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis and position will remain open until filled.

OVERVIEW:
Uniterra is a leading Canadian international volunteer cooperation and development program, jointly implemented by the Centre for International Studies and Cooperation (CECI) and World University Service of Canada (WUSC).

Uniterra contributes to improving the socio-economic conditions of poor and marginalized communities in 14 countries and with over 200 partners in Africa, Asia and the Americas through the exchange of expertise and knowledge of Canadian and international volunteers. Uniterra believes that economic growth, when inclusive, is the most powerful driver of poverty reduction. The purpose of the Uniterra program is to improve the lives of some of the world’s most vulnerable populations by stimulating growth and facilitating access to the benefits of growing and diversified markets. To make this happen, we are working with our local partners to enhance the income of poor and marginalized women and youth through better access to employment and income generation opportunities. Uniterra country program staff work with our local partners to design Uniterra assignments in the context of the country strategy, supporting the inclusion of women and youth in key economic subsectors.

For more information on the Uniterra program, our approach and countries of focus please visit: Uniterra.ca

PARTNER DESCRIPTION:
The Ghana Electrical Contractors Association (GECA), founded in 1948, is a member-based association of Electrical Contractors in Ghana. Its mission is to provide a focal point for all licensed electrical contractors in Ghana to plan for the welfare of members and promote electrical contracting works throughout the country. In seeking to secure and maintain a high-level of professional standards among members, the association also aims to regulate the conduct of members of the association generally.

A first assessment of the capacities of the national office was carried out by a WUSC volunteer and recommendations and their agenda have been proposed, accepted and are currently being implemented. A capacity assessment has also been done using Uniterra’s capacity assessment tool. Capacity gaps have been identified and Uniterra and GECA are in the process of prioritising these gaps capacity strengthening. To sustain the reorganization efforts currently underway, GECA requires a volunteer to support the management involved in the restructuring to ensure the sustainability of its activities whilst also researching to provide insight into the gaps within the training and employment of artisans within the sub sector.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Review existing capacity reports and develop an action plan for institutional capacity strengthening
- Support management at the national office in developing sound administrative and reporting systems and implementing general administrative tools
- Review policy documents available on residential construction, identify gaps and formulate recommendations
- Promote the equal participation and representation of women and men in all programs
- Prepare reports as required by Uniterra and the partner organization

QUALIFICATIONS:
- Degree in Social Science
- Knowledge in the construction sector is an asset
- Experience in working with associations
- Open-minded, resourceful and adaptable
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

VOLUNTEER BENEFITS AND SUPPORT:
- Support and guidance prior to departure and while on assignment in country.
- Participation in a pre-departure training where you will have the opportunity to learn about the program, gain practical skills for living and working in an intercultural context and meet other volunteers. Travel, meals and accommodation are covered.
- In-country orientation and briefing upon arrival in-country.
- Language training in-country where required.
- Return flights, visas and work permits.
- Cost of required country specific vaccinations and antimalarials.
- Comprehensive health insurance.
- Modest monthly living allowance while overseas.
- Accommodation while overseas.
- Vacation leave entitlement.
- Return debriefing in Canada after completion of assignment. Travel, meals and accommodation are covered.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
- Applicants must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada between the age of 18-70.
- Departure date is contingent upon the timely completion of all administrative requirements (e.g. visa processes, medical clearance, police checks, travel documentation).
- With the support of the program, all volunteers shall undertake to make a minimum financial contribution of $1,500 for participating in the program.

TO APPLY VISIT:
http://agora.ceci.ca/SGC/WUSProje.nsf/va_WPO/F1D661343F9258ED8525809100719619?OpenDocument&lg=enok

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