National Fruit Tree Nursery and Capacity Development Expert

Organizational Context

FAO, under the Unilateral Trust Fund Programme (UTF) “Strengthening Resilience of the Agriculture Sector”, will provide capacity building and technical assistance to support the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) and the Project Management Unit (PMU) in implementing a World Bank-funded project. FAO will also assess the existing capacities of structures involved in the seed and fruit tree seedling sector and crisis prevention and management.

Job Purpose

The expert will support the implementation of the UTF/TAJ/023/TAJ “Strengthening Resilience of the Agriculture Sector Project” in Tajikistan. Under the supervision of the FAO Representative for Tajikistan and technical guidance from the Lead Technical Officer, the role focuses on providing extension services to seed and fruit tree seedling farms. The primary objective is to enhance the performance, management, and productivity of fruit tree nurseries, ensuring effective project outcomes and agricultural sector resilience.

Responsibilities

Develop methodology and questionnaires for needs assessment and skill gap analysis of 13 project-supported farm nurseries. Conduct field monitoring visits with SUE “Tojikniholparvar” to gather data, evaluate nursery practices, and identify capacity gaps. Prepare a capacity and skills development plan for nurseries, recommending improvements in management, propagation, and production systems. Conduct trainings for registered farm nurseries based on assessment findings. Provide extension services and technical support in nursery operations, including seed sourcing, seedling production, pest/disease management, irrigation, and nutrient management. Facilitate the introduction of quality certification procedures for fruit tree seedlings. Prepare regular technical reports on field visits, assessment outcomes, and recommendations. Undertake other related tasks as requested.

Work Experience

Minimum 5 years of practical field experience in fruit tree nursery management, seedling production systems, or intensive orchard development projects. Proven expertise in clonal rootstock management, advanced budding/grafting techniques, field-level pest/disease diagnostics, and precision drip irrigation/fertigation setups. Deep understanding of national seedling certification procedures, quality standards, and state phytosanitary requirements.

Skills

Strong computer literacy (Microsoft Office, digital communication tools). Excellent oral and written communication skills. Strong analytical and report writing skills. Experience with international organizations, UN agencies, or NGOs. Experience coordinating with national stakeholders, government institutions, and development agencies. Knowledge of agricultural and rural development in Tajikistan. Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams. Knowledge of the agricultural sector and institutional landscape in Tajikistan. Experience in coordinating agriculture or rural development projects. Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement and project coordination. Strong coordination, leadership, and interpersonal skills. Knowledge of digital technologies in agriculture is an asset.

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