Organic Farming Specialist
Project Description
The College of Agriculture and Home Science (CAHS) at Ifugao State University (IFSU) in the Philippines has requested the support of a Peace Corps Response Volunteer (PCRV) to serve as an Organic Farming Specialist and assist in the establishment of an organic demo farm and fertilizer production area. At IFSU, training on Natural Farming System/Organic Farming has been conducted since 2006 with farmers from nearby communities and students, and IFSU is a Technical Education and Skills Development Authority accredited as a training and assessment center for Organic Agriculture. The planned establishment of an organic vegetable production demo farm and organic fertilizer production area in the University main campus will become a learning site for farmers, students and faculty and the demo farm will showcase the application of organic fertilizers and botanical pesticides in the vegetable production. The demo farm will serve as a model for the other campuses to follow and will facilitate and provide opportunity for complementary support among the other campuses with agricultural lands.
With the support from a PCRV, the College of Agriculture and Home Science seeks to introduce and design concepts for an organic vegetable production model farm and an organic fertilizer production area. The PCRV will also review the agriculture extension programs/curriculum and propose and assist in training activities on organic agriculture principles and technologies. The main goal of the assignment is to provide technical support to the CAHS staff for the implementation and operation of this planned organic demo farm.
Please note that departure dates and other details of this project could change because of the uncertainties as Peace Corps and local partners resume volunteer operations. Candidates selected for this position will be arriving in the Philippines together as a group, so while the departure dates for the whole group could change, dates cannot be changed for individual candidates.
Partner Information
College of Agriculture and Home Science (CAHS)-Ifugao State University (IFSU) – Lamut, Main Campus
Required Skills
• High tolerance for ambiguity and high level of flexibility – some details of this project could change because of the uncertainties as Peace Corps and local partners resume volunteer operations
• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or any related field
• At least 3 years work background on management of agricultural crops
• At least 3 years work experience in organic farming or sustainable agriculture program management
• Demonstrated ability to live and work in a multi-cultural setting
• Excellent interpersonal skills with demonstrated flexibility
The Peace Corps embraces and leverages the diversity of its volunteers as a reflection of America's diversity. Peace Corps Response is committed to reflecting the diversity of the United States in the professionals we send into the field to support the mission of world peace and friendship. Applicants with diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Serving in Philippines
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Medical Considerations
Before you apply, please review Medical Information for Applicants to learn about the medical clearance process.
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