Assistant Master Trainer SC 6

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) supports the transformation to efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems to improve production, nutrition, the environment, and livelihoods. FAO Kenya is actively supporting the Kenyan government in digitalizing the agriculture sector and leveraging data for decision-making. To enhance its technical capacity, FAO Kenya seeks a qualified Assistant Farmer Field School master trainer.

Job Purpose

The Assistant Master Trainer will provide essential technical leadership, training, mentorship, and support to facilitators of Farmer Field Schools (FFS) and Farmer Business Schools (FBS). The role ensures that these methodologies are implemented effectively and sustainably, aligning with project objectives. This position is crucial for strengthening FAO Kenya's internal technical capabilities in supporting agricultural development and farmer empowerment through participatory learning approaches.

Responsibilities

Assist in adapting FFS and FBS curricula, training modules, and guides to local agro-ecological and market conditions. Co-facilitate Training of Trainers (ToT) and sessions for FFS/FBS facilitators and government extension officers. Provide direct coaching to facilitators during FFS/FBS cycles, emphasizing participatory learning methods and FFS principles. Conduct routine supervision visits to farmer groups to evaluate facilitator performance and offer on-site guidance. Offer technical assistance in agronomy, climate-smart agriculture, group dynamics, participatory experimentation, and business development skills within relevant value chains. Ensure facilitators adhere to approved methodologies and FFS/FBS principles. Support facilitators in data collection, record-keeping, and documenting observations. Guide facilitators in documenting innovations, field trials, enterprise performance, and farmer behavioral changes. Compile field reports, case studies, and success stories for dissemination. Participate in FFS review meetings and learning events. Facilitate linkages between FFS/FBS groups and service providers. Support the supervision of service providers and coordinate FFS learning events and field days.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of relevant experience in agricultural extension, participatory training, and farmer business capacity development is required. This experience should demonstrate a strong understanding of farmer-centric approaches and program implementation in agricultural contexts.

Skills

Proven experience as an FFS and/or FBS Trainer. Strong facilitation and participatory training skills. Excellent communication, writing, and interpersonal abilities. Experience in integrating cross-cutting themes such as gender, youth, climate resilience, and nutrition. Familiarity with monitoring, evaluation, and reporting in agricultural/agribusiness projects. Core competencies include Results Focus, Teamwork, Communication, Building Effective Relationships, and Knowledge Sharing.

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