The National Agricultural Research Organisation -- Vacancy Announcement

The National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) is an autonomous body which promotes and undertakes research in crops, livestock, fisheries, forestry and natural resources management in Uganda. The Director General, NARO invites suitably qualified persons to apply for the following position: Development Communications Specialist The Development Communications Specialist is a new and challenging post in the Client-Oriented Agricultural Research and Dissemination Project (COARD) which is based at the Serere Agriculture and Animal Production Research Institute (SAARI) in Soroti District, supported by the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID). NARO terms and conditions will apply. The COARD project facilitates client-oriented participatory research and extension through two agricultural technology funds (ATFs), which are awarded on a competitive basis. The funds support on-farm, participatory research and mechanisms for improving technology dissemination, which contribute to sustainable improvements in rural livelihoods in northern and eastern Uganda. The Project investigates different ways of disseminating research outputs, with emphasis placed on involving all relevant actors in a participatory two-way communication process to enhance partnerships and linkages. A Development Communications Specialist is needed to further develop and implement the communications strategy. The successful applicant will be based at SAARI, and will be responsible for providing and implementing the communications strategy. (S)he will be responsible for providing (i) technical support to projects awarded through the ATFs in the area of communications and dissemination (ii) monitoring and evaluating ATFs projects as necessary, (iii) monitoring the overall communications context for COARD project and SAARI and conducting relevant surveys and studies, (iv) assisting with public relations activities of SAARI and the COARD project. Qualifications The successful applicant will have a good first degree in a relevant discipline (e.g agricultural extension/education, development communication studies). (S)he must have at least two years practical, relevant post-graduate experience and some experience of working in a research or development organisation in the field of agriculture or natural resources. Computer literacy is essential, and knowledge of the local languages of the Teso and Lango regions is desirable. Interested scientists are requested to send their applications to the address below, enclosing updated CVs, copies of academic testimonials, and names and addresses of three referees to arrive not later than December 7, 2001.