Helvetas is a Swiss development organization operating in Kyrgyzstan since November 1994 and implementing projects in Kyrgyzstan in various sectors. One of the current projects is the newly started Skills Development Kyrgyzstan Project (SDK), funded by the Government of Switzerland through the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). In November 2023, Helvetas launched the main 4-year phase of the project, covering the period from November 2023 to October 2027, aiming at strengthening non-formal inclusive and effective training offers for employed, underemployed and unemployed youth, women and vulnerable groups in Kyrgyzstan. The main objective of SDK Project is to make upskilling and reskilling courses accessible, affordable and relevant to the current and future needs of the employers by developing and institutionalizing the non-formal part of the VET system nationwide and thus addressing both economic as well as social needs. SDK focuses on improving training quality and inclusion based on viable and sustainable financing mechanisms. Post-training support and enhanced career guidance will assist learners in finding decent employment opportunities. The project activities will be carried out country wide. Helvetas/SDK announces a competition to fill a full-time vacant position of the SDK VET Policies and Education Systems Expert for its Bishkek office. Responsibilities Responsible for providing strategic guidance on developing a conducive regulatory framework and eco-system enhancing private-sector led non-formal VSD training offers Responsible for managing project activities linked to policy dialogue on promoting non-formal education and relevant capacity building and training for key state, private and third sector stakeholders Responsible for supporting the Project Manager / Team Leader in assuring high quality project implementation, project reporting and communication with stakeholders Responsible for supporting project visibility and communication flows, for participating and contributing to knowledge and learning sharing Professional Qualifications Education: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in business administration, economics, education policy or similar domain Further training or specific skills and experience: Sound background in dealing with education system reform, ideally in VET and social partnership Sound knowledge and experience in PCM Experience in labour migration and lifelong learning skills is an asset Professional experience At least five-year experience in education or policy related projects At least three-year experience in project management Methodological and/or leadership competencies Result-oriented personality / maintaining deadlines Process facilitation / moderation and coaching skills Knowledge and experience in participatory and gender-sensitive approaches Excellent analytical, conceptual, visionary and programmatic competencies Social and personal competencies Social competence and intercultural communication skills Good reporting and writing skills Negotiation skills Languages English (oral and written), Kyrgyz (oral and written) and Russian (oral and written) IT skills Proficiency with MS Office software Interested candidates are kindly requested to send their detailed CV and cover letter in English to: kyrgyzstan@helvetas.org (with copy Alina.Asanakunova@helvetas.org) The deadline for submission is 17:00, December 12, 2023. Please, kindly include “SDK – VET Policies Expert” in the subject line of your email.
Helvetas is a Swiss development organization operating in Kyrgyzstan since November 1994 and implementing projects in Kyrgyzstan in various sectors. One of the current projects is the newly started Skills Development Kyrgyzstan Project (SDK), funded by the Government of Switzerland through the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). In November 2023, Helvetas launched the main 4-year phase of the project, covering the period from November 2023 to October 2027, aiming at strengthening non-formal inclusive and effective training offers for employed, underemployed and unemployed youth, women and vulnerable groups in Kyrgyzstan. The main objective of SDK Project is to make upskilling and reskilling courses accessible, affordable and relevant to the current and future needs of the employers by developing and institutionalizing the non-formal part of the VET system nationwide and thus addressing both economic as well as social needs. SDK focuses on improving training quality and inclusion based on viable and sustainable financing mechanisms. Post-training support and enhanced career guidance will assist learners in finding decent employment opportunities. The project activities will be carried out country wide. Helvetas/SDK announces a competition to fill a full-time vacant position of the SDK Project Assistant for its Bishkek office. Reporting Reporting to Project Manager Key objectives A Providing full assistance in effective operation of multi-tier project with multiple stakeholders B Project monitoring and evaluation/ data collection and tracking for all project components C Support services for logistical, administrative and financial matters delivered Main tasks A Maintaining office co-ordination: maintaining co-ordination and link between the department/person and the rest of the office; Assisting proper communication with all stakeholders; Preparing and distributing project communication materials, leaflets/calendars; Composing and distributing invitations / minutes for SDK presentations and conferences; Filing documents in accordance with the approved PD Documentation System Procedure; Updating, inventorying and organizing the project documentation; maintaining correspondence with partners; Maintaining project pages in social network (Facebook, Instagram etc.); Oversee all project materials and events following and being in compliance with the project’s Communication Strategy; Manage tendering process (tender announcements, minutes, interviews, notifications); Preparing Service/Grant Agreements for review by the Legal Advisor. B Project data collection quarterly and annually from component leads against LogFrame; Preparing SDK indicator spreadsheets to track data and report them to PM; Liaise with the Head Office (HO) Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) person for the development of online data collection system or any M&E developments; Be responsible for all M&E activities for SDK project. C Making all necessary arrangements for workshops, meetings and seminars; Assist the HO financial team in providing, documenting and filing all necessary financial data; Order office supplies and stationery, photocopying, binding, filing, other small office work as needed or requested, including inventory of consumables; Arranging logistical support of missions, managing flight / transport issues, assist expatriates / consultants / trainees / volunteers to settle and work in the country; Giving general information to visitors / callers about the project; Provide written and oral translation as needed. Responsibilities A Responsible for fast and correct communication flow within the team Responsible for organization and accessibility of information B Responsible for Monitoring & Evaluation activities in the project Responsible for project data collection and tracking against the LogFrame C Responsible for travel arrangements and logistics for collaborators / consultants / expatriates Responsible for event preparation and logistics Other duties of project assistant Supporting the staff when assigned Competency profile Basic education Mandatory: Bachelor’s degree (university diploma) in economics, business administration, or similar domain Optional: Additional training/skills improvement in the relevant fields Professional experience Mandatory: Willingess to learn and interest in development programming Social and personal competencies Excellent communication skills Good reporting and writing skills Moderation skills Languages Mandatory: Kyrgyz (oral and written), Russian (oral and written), English (oral and written) Computer skills Mandatory: Excellent knowledge of MS Office programmes How to apply Interested candidates should send their resume along with a cover letter and recommendation letters to kyrgyzstan@helvetas.org (please specify “SDK Project Assistant” in the subject line of your email). Applications should be submitted no later than 5:00 PM on November 26, 2023.
Branch of the Association HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation in KR is looking for Project Manager of Youth United for the Future Project (duty station in Osh). Main tasks: Leads the YOU Project in all aspects of project cycle management; Provides leadership and fosters an atmosphere of cooperation among project staff, and partner organisations to achieve project objectives; Introduces and maintains a proper planning and monitoring system to ensure the quality control of the project’s outputs and expected outcomes; Establishes and monitors agreements/contracts with partner organisations; Recruits and supervises project staff and mobilises required technical assistance; Manages and controls project funds, ensuring that they are utilized in the most cost effective manner. Checks and approves narrative and financial reports of partners; Ensures the timely preparation of annual internal budgets and financial reports providing explanations on over- or under-expenditures; Makes sure that local legal requirements and local administrative regulations are followed in the execution of the project; Represents the project in regular contacts with the Government of Kyrgyzstan and other national and international partners. Qualifications: Degree in public policy, intercultural communication, peace studies, sociology or other relevant social studies; Good understanding of inter-ethnic, community security/peace and conflict prevention issues; A minimum of 5 years’ relevant work experience preferably in supporting community-based initiatives in the field of community security/ peace building / conflict prevention; Experience in building young people’s skills and experience in democratic practice and in undertaking participatory research on root causes of radicalization among youth and ways to address them collaboratively, and in partnership with communities and local authorities; Experience in identification of the capacity gaps and requirements of community-based organisations, NGOs, local government and local security centres in relation to the local collaboration and security provision; Work experience in dialogue facilitation across ethnic, rural-urban, religious and regional divides Experience in the area of youth participation in public life; Result-oriented project management (logical framework approach); Strong coaching and facilitation skills; Social competence and communication skills; Knowledge and experience in participatory and gender sensitive approaches; Process facilitation / moderation skills; Motivational leadership style and team building skills; Proven interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills and sensitivity; Excellent reporting and writing skills; Negotiation skills; Excellent knowledge of Kyrgyz, English and Russian. Interested candidates are kindly requested to send their detailed CV, cover letter and recommendation letters in English to: kyrgyzstan@helvetas.org (with copy Alina.Asanakunova@helvetas.org) The deadline for submission is no later than 17:00, October 30, 2023. Please, kindly include "Project Manager - YOU" in the subject line of your email.
During the global "Green Destinations" conference on October 9th in Tallinn, Estonia, the picturesque town of Karakol secured its spot in the "Top 100 Success Stories of Sustainable Destinations 2023." This prestigious acknowledgment celebrates the dedication and efforts of all tourism contributors in Karakol and throughout Kyrgyzstan towards fostering sustainable and conscientious tourism. Annually, the Green Destinations Top 100 Stories competition assembles standout practices and motivational stories from worldwide destinations. This year, Kyrgyzstan presented Karakol's compelling narrative of tourist guides' perseverance in maintaining year-round employment. Their story delves into the roles these guides play in crafting memorable experiences for tourists throughout every season. This tale sheds light on the successful strategies and projects aimed at continually enhancing training and elevating the quality of guide services, which include ski and cultural tour guides. Their determination has equipped them with newfound skills, provided consistent income, and bolstered their employment opportunities. The inclusion of Karakol's narrative within the "Top 100 Success Stories of Sustainable Destinations 2023" further cements the town's dedication to sustainability and ethical tourism practices. It's crucial to highlight that Karakol's inclusion signifies a monumental triumph not only for the town but also for the broader Kyrgyzstani tourism sector. This recognition stems from the collective efforts of the Sustainable Development of Winter Tourism in Kyrgyzstan project (WTK), Karakol City Hall, Destination Karakol, and all tourism industry stakeholders in Karakol. It's noteworthy to mention that the Alay District of Kyrgyzstan received similar recognition in 2022 with the support of another project - GreenTour-Promoting Sustainable Tourism in Kyrgyzstan. About Green Destinations: Founded in the Netherlands, Green Destinations ardently champions sustainable tourism by assessing, nurturing, and accrediting committed destinations and enterprises. The organization orchestrates numerous international programs, aligning sustainable tourism experts, advisors, and nonprofits. Over 450 destinations and 50 businesses from 60 nations are proud participants. Their mission? To redefine tourism for the better. Green Destinations Conference 2023: Hosted from October 8-10 in Tallinn, Estonia, the conference congregated sustainability experts and enthusiasts worldwide to discuss pressing sustainability concerns and exchange best practices in adept destination management.
Branch of the Association HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation in KR is looking for a Business Facilitator in tourism and apiculture value chains of Bai-Alai Project (duty station in Osh). Qualification requirements: High degree in business administration, economics or similar domain Knowledge and experience in tourism sector Social competence and intercultural communication skills Good reporting and writing skills Negotiation skills English (oral and written), Kyrgyz (oral and written) and Russian Proficiency with office productivity software Main tasks: Coordinate and provide guidance on strategic and operational issues related to tourism value chain with special focus on women and youth SME development Contribute to a proper monthly, quarterly and annual planning and monitoring system (operational and financial) to ensure the quality control of the Bai Alai project’s outputs and expected outcomes, according to the Project Management Framework (PMF) Ensure that women and disadvantaged groups are included in decision-making processes in the projects area and within partner organisations Facilitate good business relations with local, regional and national level tourism actors, including women and youth entrepreneurs Liaise with state authorities and institutions to promote an enable legislative environment Monitor and supervise that tourism VC observed and adhered (incl. by co-facilitators and partners / beneficiaries) Implement monitoring and evaluation system in cooperation with partner organizations in regard to tourism value chain with focus on GSE indicators Participate in and contribute to relevant M&E exercises (capitalisation of experience, progress reports, etc.) Work closely with HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation team in Bishkek and Osh. Interested candidates are kindly requested to send their detailed CV, cover letter and recommendation letters in English to: kyrgyzstan@helvetas.org (with copy Alina.Asanakunova@helvetas.org) The deadline for submission is no later than 17:00, October 13, 2023. Please, kindly include "Business Facilitator - Bai Alai" in the subject line of your email.
In a step towards promoting sustainable tourism practices in Kyrgyzstan, the Greentour project, in collaboration with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), successfully organized a comprehensive 3-day training program from September 4th to 6th, 2023. The training, held in the city of Bishkek, brought together 23 dedicated representatives from various tourism organizations. The participants of this essential training program included key stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, representing the Department of Tourism under the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic, the mayor’s office of the city of Karakol, Destinations Osh and Jalalabad, universities (Kyrgyz Economic University and Osh State University), the Osh Regional Museum of Fine Arts, the Center for Nomadic Civilization, the Kyrgyz Association of Tour Operators, the Kyrgyz Association of Community-Based Tourism, as well as the HORECA Plus Association. The primary focus of the training was to impart knowledge and insights on the four fundamental criteria for sustainable tourism, namely good management, socio-economic impact, cultural impact, and environmental impact. These criteria were elucidated with real-world examples drawn from various global tourism destinations: the sector’s burden on Asian ecosystems, the problems of mass tourism in European capitals, the commodification of culture and the loss of authenticity due to intensive tourism promotion. The program featured a balanced mix of theoretical sessions that covered the key GSTC criteria, enriching field trips to tourism sites for practical analysis and assessment of their compliance with sustainability criteria, and presentations by participants who shared their assessment results. Kyal Kenzhematova, Deputy Director of the Department of Tourism under the Ministry of Economy of the Kyrgyz Republic, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in the tourism sector. She stated, “Kyrgyzstan has chosen the path of sustainable development, and the topic of this training is incredibly relevant. We must understand that sustainable tourism benefits everyone: nature, people, and businesses - both today and for many years to come. Knowledge of sustainability criteria is essential for everyone working in the tourism sector.” The Greentour project, is funded by the European Union’s SWITCH-Asia program and implemented by Helvetas. For more detailed information about the Greentour project, please visit the Helvetas and SWITCH-Asia website.
