Climate Change and Food Security – New Free E-learning Course from FAO

How does climate change affect agriculture and food security? What can be done to minimize its negative impacts? These are just some of the questions answered in this new course from FAO available for free online here or on CD-Rom by writing to information-for-action@fao.org
Starting with an overview of the concept of climate change, the course then looks at its impact on food security. After examining strategies for mitigating or adapting to the effects of climate change, it suggests concrete ways to make sure agriculture is “climate smart”.
The course is aimed at policy makers and people working in development agencies, who need to better understand how climate change affects agriculture and food systems, and what concrete actions can be taken. The course also includes face to face training materials, such as exercises, trainer’s notes, and slides, which can be adapted  to your training needs.

Concrete actions are needed to ensure food security
The effects of climate change will hit vulnerable people the hardest. However, policy makers and individuals can take concrete actions now to prevent food insecurity from increasing. Lesson Three “Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation in Agriculture” looks at possible strategies such as:
“people centred” strategies such as setting up community based grain banks, helping rural households diversify their sources of income, and social protection schemes;
improved water management practices such as building infrastructure for more efficient irrigation systems and small-scale water capture, storage and use;
adopting farming practices aimed at conserving soil moisture, organic matter and nutrients –such as crop rotation and using mulch stubble and straw;
using short-cycle seed varieties that allow for harvesting before the peak of the cyclone season.

Introducing climate smart agriculture
Many countries need to continually increase food production for growing populations. However, the goals of increased production and environmental preservation sometimes appear contradictory.
Lesson Four provides valuable insights on how climate smart agriculture can transform entire agricultural systems, making them more productive, while preserving the environment.

For more information and the course click here


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The Norman E. Borlaug Leadership Enhancement in Agriculture Program (LEAP) Fellowship

The Norman E. Borlaug Leadership Enhancement in Agriculture Program (Borlaug LEAP) is a fellowship program, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), to enhance the quality of thesis research of graduate students from developing countries who show strong promise as leaders in the field of agriculture and related disciplines as defined by Title XII. LEAP was developed in conjunction with the Borlaug International Agricultural Science and Technology Fellows Program sponsored by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) but operates as a separate program.

The Borlaug LEAP Fellowship supports engaging a mentor at a United States (US) University and at a Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) system center to support and enhance the thesis research and mentoring experience. Awards are made on a competitive basis to students who show strong scientific and leadership potential, have a well coordinated proposal between their home university, a US university mentor, and the CGIAR mentor, and whose research is related to a strong research and support project within the host country. Emphasis is placed on work that has relevance to the national development of the student's home country. 

REQUEST FOR APPLICATIONS (RFAs)

Applications are requested for sub-Saharan African students conducting research on topics related to USAID's global hunger and food security initiative -- FEED THE FUTURE.  The focus region is sub-Saharan Africa.  All topics related to agriculture (as defined by Title XII) and the research strategies of the Feed the Future Initiative are admissible. The administrative due date for applications is: JUNE 12, 2012.

For more information click here 

APPLICATION FORM   |   BUDGET FORM

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Internship opportunities with YPARD (3-4 positions)

1. Call for an intern in Translations

Intern’s main responsibility

YPARD is searching for an intern to support YPARD’s expansion in three languages: English, French and Spanish.

The intern will be in charge of the translation of:

-Key governance documents

-YPARD information and communications products

-YPARD news articles

Profile

The candidate should have a background in translations. He/she should be fluent in French and/or in Spanish, and have a very good working knowledge of English.

Knowledge about agricultural related fields, natural resource management or similar fields OR related to youth issues and development will be a strong asset.

 

2. Call for an intern in Social Networking

Intern’s main responsibility

YPARD is searching for an intern to increase YPARD’s visibility on Social Networks: Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Google+ etc, disseminate information posted on the website and animate YPARD social networks profiles.

The intern would also be solicited to take part and animate discussions on YPARD’s Forum space.
Profile
The candidate should have a background in agricultural related fields, natural resource management or similar fields OR related to youth issues and development.
While expertise in Social Networks is not required, the candidate should demonstrate a keen interest in using them and a genuine understanding of it.
The candidate should show outstanding communication skills, a strong curiosity, and eagerness to animate discussions on issues related to agricultural and youth development.
He/she should be a Young Professional, member of YPARD (sign up now at www.ypard.net )
He/she should be fluent in English. Knowledge in French and/or in Spanish will be considered a strong asset.

 

3. Call for an intern in Web4Knowledge

Description

• He/she will be in charge of updating the information available on the YPARD website, including job opportunities and calls for papers, events and featured ARD news for Young Professionals. This includes finding the relevant information, manual information posting on the website and management of RSS pipes
• He/She will be in charge of the development of some key sections of the website: partners and stakeholders, external resources display and e-library, media and pictures spaces
• The intern might be solicited to translate existing communication products and YPARD news articles, when appropriate – if skills required are met

Profile

• The candidate should have a background in agricultural related fields, natural resource management or similar fields OR related to youth issues and development.
• While ICT skills are not required, the candidate should demonstrate a keen interest in Information research and dissemination, and in issues related to agricultural and youth development.
• The candidate is expected to show a strong curiosity, good written communication skills and an outstanding interest in contributing to information sharing for agriculture development.
• He/she should be a Young Professional, member of YPARD (sign up now at www.ypard.net)  
• He/she should be fluent in English. Knowledge in French and/or in Spanish will be considered a strong asset.

What will the candidate gain from this internship?

YPARD is eager to give a young professional the opportunity to gain in professional experience related to his/her background in Translation services, and getting expertise in the field of agriculture and international development.

Working with YPARD is also about getting a chance to increase one’s network within the ARD sector and expanding one’s knowledge in on-line resources and organizations in ARD.

Conditions of work

The candidate will work remotely in close collaboration with the YPARD Web and Communications Officer. It is therefore compulsory he/she has a good internet access and connection from his/her own place, Skype installed with headphone, and knowledge in using it.

The internship contract is for 10-15 hrs a week, for 6 months. Work load might be heavier by the end of each month (due to monthly reports)

This position is not remunerated.

Application

Interested candidates should send a CV and a motivation letter to info@ypard.net with the: [internship Translations application] in the subject line.

Application to be sent anytime from end March 2012; the successful candidate is expected to start ASAP in April 2012. 

 

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Call for Abstracts: ‘Feeding 1 billion in Africa in a Changing World’

The CTA/ FARA/IFS/ ANAFE/ RUFORUM consortium, in collaboration with AGRA and NPCA, is pleased to announce the launch of its 2012-2013 Africa-wide women and young professionals in science competitions. With a population of approximately 1.03 billion in 2011, and a growth rate of 24 million per annum, Africa’s population is expected to double by 2050. The continent needs to increase agricultural productivity in a sustainable manner as well as find endogenous solutions to respond to the challenges. 

Africa’s investment in science and innovation remains low; and only one African university is listed among the top 500 in the world. Women are under-represented in all areas of policy, education and research and many of Africa’s youthful population; 70% aged 30 or younger, do not see a future in agriculture or science. The continent faces a knowledge and skills gap as ageing scientists and academicians retire.

The 2012-2013 Africa-wide competitions will evaluate, recognize and reward the contributions of women and young professionals who are involved in:

(i) Pioneering and innovative research;

(ii) Communicating their research results and technological developments; and

(iii) Advocating for policy change as well as influencing policy processes through their research.

They will also raise awareness of the need for valuing and sustaining the engagement of women and young professionals and facilitating their contribution to Africa’s socio-economic transformation.

Deadline: 14 May 2012. 

For more information or to submit abstracts email to: CTA or FARA-AFRICA

Full details are available on the websites below:

CTA-Kng -  or CTA RUFORUM   IFS FARA ANAFE NPCA AGRA 

Links to Documents

Women in science competition announcement.pdf (252.03 kB)

Young Professionals in sceince competition announcement.pdf (241.52 kB)

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Applications Open for Cambridge University Masters Programme in Conservation Supported by UNEP

Two scholarship programmes have been generously established to support students from less developed and developing countries that are rich in biodiversity, to attend the MPhil in Conservation Leadership during the academic year 2012-2013. The Miriam Rothschild Scholarship Programme in Conservation Leadership is generously supported by Arcadia. Additional scholarships are available as a result of support from another donor.

The number and size of the scholarships varies from full scholarships, to partial scholarships that cover specific aspects of the funding package required by students. Offers of scholarships will be made competitively based on: academic quality; the motivation and potential of candidates to become conservation leaders; and, the funds applicants already have available for the course.

Students interested in seeking funding support should, if they have not already done so, make a formal application to the Board of Graduate Studies for a place on the course. Such an application will include a written statement of not more than 750 words outlining why the applicant is suited to gain a place on the course. The deadline for applications is 30 March 2012.

In addition, applicants wishing to be considered for funding support should make a financial case outlining the funds that they have available, and any funds that they still require to ensure they can take up their place on the course. This financial case should update any information given in the original application to the Board of Graduate Studies. The financial case should generally not exceed 200 words, and should be sent by email to Emily Chenery [emily.chenery@geog.cam.ac.uk], Programme Administrator, MPhil in Conservation Leadership by 30 March 2012.

For more information & application click here 

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Grants for PhD Students University of Deusto, Spain

 The Basque Institute of Competitiveness - University of Deusto (Spain) offers Grants For Doctoral Students. Scholarship / Financial aid: 12.000 Euro awards for each year doctoral fellowships
ABOUT ORKESTRA: The Basque Institute of Competitiveness (Orkestra) is a research institute located in the Basque Country (Spain), founded in 2006 and affiliated with the University of Deusto. Its mission is to engage in the so-called 3'is of the Institute: Investigation (research) of excellence, specialized Instruction, and Interaction with the relevant agents of competitiveness - local, regional and national governments, the European Union, firms, and the various intermediary organizations (technology centers, business organizations, cluster associations, etc.) - as a means of strengthening the competitiveness of the Basque economy and society in a globalized environment fully aware of the need to promote sustainable development. The Institute is comprised of approximately 30 researchers and support staff and is currently expanding and reinforcing its areas of focus.

QUALIFICATIONS: Applications are welcome from scholars of all nationalities that are currently undertaking a doctoral degree in the fields of business, energy, economics and public policy. Applicants might be enrolled in the doctoral programme in Competitiveness and Economic Development of the University of Deusto (further information: http://www.deusto.es ), or in a doctoral programme from another Basque, Spanish or international university that enables them to be integrated into the research team of the Basque Institute of Competitiveness (Orkestra) for a period of 1-3 years. The selected student will join one of the Departments of Orkestra in San Sebastian or Bilbao (Spain), where they will develop their research in line with the research lines and projects of that department.

DESCRIPTION: Orkestra - Basque Institute of Competitiveness (University of Deusto) is offering grants for:
- Students looking to undertake Ph.D. within the doctoral program offered by the Basque Institute of Competitiveness and the University of Deusto.
- Postgraduate students at other institutions whose research focus is one of the topics above mentioned and who wish to undertake a fellowship at the Basque Institute of Competitiveness, while continuing their studies.

RESEARCH DEPARTMENTS:
- Territory, Innovation and Clusters (San Sebastian). (2011RRHHPD - TIC)
- Entrepreneurship (San Sebastian). (2011RRHHPD - ENT).
- Strategy (San Sebastian). (2011RRHHPD - STR)
- Energy (Bilbao). (2011RRHHPD - ENE)

GRANTS CONDITIONS:
- 12.000 Euro awards for each year doctoral fellowships from one year to up to three years.
- Payment of enrolment fees.
- Job facilities: computer, work facilities, etc.
- Access to funding for attending congresses.

REQUIRED LANGUAGES: ENGLISH - Excellent and SPANISH - Basic
APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Candidates should apply via email to recruitment@orkestra.deusto.es, including the following information:
- C.V.
- Description of current areas of research developed in thesis (maximum 2 pages)
- Minimum of 3 references (including contact info, email)
- Proof of registration in a doctoral programme, or evidence that you applied for a doctoral programme.

 

FURTHER INFORMATION:
- Application deadline: 30th April, 2012
- Start Date up to: 30th September, 2012

For more information and application Click here

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Full MA & PhD Scholarships for Sub-Saharan African Students

Full MA & PhD Scholarships for Sub-Saharan African Students: For applicants from Sub-Saharan African countries with an excellent academic record the DRD (Development Research Division) of the DAAD-funded South African-German Centre for Development Research and Criminal Justice offers a limited number of DAAD merit scholarships per year.

Scholarships are available for full-time students of:
the MA and M Econ in Development Studies,
the Master in Public Administration,
the MA in Development Management (Bochum Programme),
the PhD in International Development Studies.
Scholarships include monthly allowances of 570 Euro plus travel allowances for Master candidates and 900 Euro plus travel allowances for PhD candidates.

Requirements for application and application procedure
Scholarship applicants are advised to carefully read about the specific entry requirements and course application procedure of the programme of their choice.
Candidates for;
The Masters Programme in Public Administration (MPA),

The MA and M Econ in Development Studies as well as PhD candidates in the fields of Governance,Public Policy,Public Management or Development Studies can submit their scholarship application before they register with UWC through the online application procedure.
Please submit a letter of application, the DAAD application form (see below), a CV, an academic transcript from your last university and two academic references.Applicants will be informed about their applications by the end of October.

For more info and application Click here

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International Students Scholarships Malaysia

The Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) is an initiative by the Malaysian Government to attract the best brain from around the world to pursue advanced academic studies in Malaysia. This scholarship aims to support Malaysian Government's effort to attract, motivate and retain talented human capital from abroad.
Talented international students with excellent academic records and outstanding co-curricular backgrounds are welcomed to apply for this scholarship and further their studies in any selected and well-established Malaysian public and private universities. This scholarship is divided into two (2) categories of study: Postgraduate and Post-doctoral Studies

Commonwealth Scholarship A panel established by the Ministry  of Higher Education Malaysia will finalizes the selection. Eligibility   i. Not be more than 45 years of age during application.   ii. Obtained a minimum of Second Class Upper (Honours)CGPA of 3.5/4.0 at Bachelor Degree Level for Masters Degree applicants and for PhD candidates must possess CGPA 3.5/4.0 or very good result at Masters degree level in a similar field of intended PhD study. In addition, for post-doctoral programme, the selection will be evaluated based on the number of books produced, refereed/non refereed journals, portfolio and patent copyright. The Post-Doctoral candidate must have excellent reputation in research and possesses knowledge related to the research to be carried out. or a   iii. Took one of the following English Language Proficiency Test not more than two years before the date of application. The list of tests and minimum scores required:     - IELTS Academic Test with a score of at least 6.5; or     - TOEFL paper-based test with a score of at least 580 or computer-based test with a score of at least 230 or internet-based test with a score at least 92.   iv. In excellent health condition and certified by a Certified Doctor/Medical Professional. The cost of medical examination is to be borne by the applicants   v. Wrote a proposal that is relevant to the needs and interests of Malaysia (research-based programme only)   vi. Has applied for and gained admission to postgraduate and post-doctoral studies in Malaysia (conditional letters of offer will be accepted at the time of application or has a confirmation of acceptance or affiliation with the universities in Malaysia).         Deadline: 30th April.For further information about the scholarship contact: Ms. Norkamilah Zanial, E-mail: norkamilahz [at] mohe.gov.my  For application click here

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RAS KAWINTSEB: Live Concert @ Haramaya University

 On Tuesday 20/03 @ 6:30 pm on the campus of Haramaya University, Ras Kawintseb will sing French songs in Reggae style for the French Speaking Communities' Day.

The 20th of March is the French-speaking communities' day . It is an international event celebrating French language an culture around the world.belongs to the Rasta community and is famous in Ethiopia for his interpretations of classical French song (Jacques Brel, Georges Brssens) in a Reggae style.

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Google Student Ambassador Programme

Are you technically savvy and thrilled by new technology? Are you enthusiastic about Google products? Are you knowledgeable about your school and motivated to bring new opportunities to your peers? Do your friends call you a natural leader? If so, the Google Campus Ambassador role may be a perfect fit for you!The Google Campus Ambassador Programme is an opportunity for you to be a liaison between Google and your university. Ambassadors plan and host a few events during the school year, introduce students to new Google products and features, and act as a campus contact for Google teams.

Ambassadors may:

• Work closely with local Google teams
• Host and organize events to bring awareness to Google's products and brand
• Spread the word about competitions, bootcamps, scholarships and other opportunities
• Attend Google events as a Google representative
• Help Google to better understand your campus' culture
• Build relationships on campus with faculty and student groups
• Test products and features
• Promote product use and new product launches to students
• Be a source of knowledge for your university about Google products
• Spread Google goodwill to your fellow students

The Google Student Ambassador Programme is an opportunity for you to be a liaison between Google and your university. Ambassadors plan and host a few events during the school year, introduce students to new Google products and features, and act as a campus contact for Google teams. This opportunity is open to university students at level 2 or above and postgraduate students.

Google Student Ambassadors must be: Currently enrolled in the university and available for one academic year, Pursuing a degree or postgraduate program, Passionate about technology, Able to plan events and manage a budget, and Actively involved in student life on campus. For more info, Click here

For application click here

NB: They are currently receiving very few apps from African women for the Google Student Ambassador program, so deadline extended to Mar 20th.

 

 

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2012/2013 Africa-wide Young Professionals in Science Competition

Excellence in Science, Technology and Innovation for Agricultural and Rural
Development

Call for Abstracts

“Feeding 1 billion in Africa in a changing world”

This competition seeks to promote excellence and recognize and reward outstanding young professionals who are undertaking scientific and innovative research, technology and engineering related development activities and communicating the outputs (knowledge, technologies and approaches) to improve agricultural performance and socio-economic development in Africa.

Who can participate?
Young professionals (25-40 years) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), North Africa and the Diaspora1 are encouraged to participate. Individual and group entries will be accepted. The role and contribution of the young professional(s) must be clearly demonstrated in group submissions. Entries should demonstrate effective partnerships and combination of skills and/or engagement with peers and or rural communities.

What is the scope?
Any science, technology and innovation (ST&I) related research and development activity linked to the topic “Feeding 1 billion in Africa in a changing world” which has been undertaken within the last five years and shows measurable impact (potential or demonstrated) on agricultural development or rural livelihoods in Africa, is eligible.
Thematic areas include: 

(i) increasing agricultural productivity and food security; 

(ii)postharvest handling and value addition;

 (iii) environmental and eco-system sustainability
– climate change, water, soil and biodiversity; 

(iv) policy, economics and trade;

 (v) tertiary education, knowledge management and ICTs; and 

(vi) agricultural machinery/engineering
including processing and packaging. Communication strategies, methods and tools used to
disseminate results - scientific findings, technologies, or approaches must be included.

Guidelines:
Entrants are required to submit an extended abstract (1000 – 2000 words) that clearly details the ST&I project. The heading “Young Professionals in Science”, name and full contact details; official mailing address, telephone and fax numbers, e-mail address must appear at the top of the first page. The abstract should include the title, brief background, objective(s), methodology/approach, results, discussion, conclusion, communication strategy, methods and tools used for sharing outputs and impact (potential or demonstrated).
Passport page showing proof of age and citizenship must be submitted with the entry.Extended abstract and passport page should be e-mailed to scicom2012@cta.int and copied to agsci_award@fara-africa.org. The deadline for submission is 14th May, 2012. 

Abstracts received after the deadline will not be considered. Criteria for evaluation include logic (10%), content (20%), communication (20%), impact (20%), innovation (15%) and originality (15%).

Evaluation (Stage I)
Abstracts received by May 14th, 2012 will be evaluated by a panel of experts including scientists, policy makers, farmers, gender and information and communication experts. The top 20 semi-finalists will be announced on 11th July, 2012. They will be sponsored to attend a scientific writing and communication workshop which will be held in conjunction with the 3rd RUFORUM biennial conference, in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania from 24-28th September, 2012. Semi-finalists will be required to submit full draft papers of not more than 4 – 6 pages by 13th August, 2012. Failure to submit draft papers in keeping with the competition guidelines by 13th August will result in immediate disqualification.

Evaluation (Stage II)
Final papers are to be submitted by 16th November 2012. All final papers will be evaluated by the expert panel to select the 10 top finalists who will compete for the cash awards, prizes and trophies during the Finals and Award Ceremony in June 2013. All semi-finalists who meet the 16th November deadline for submission of final papers will be invited to the 6th Africa Science Week and FARA General Assembly scheduled for June 2013, in Accra,Ghana.

Competition Organizers:
The Technical Center for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (ACP-EU), the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), the African Network for Agriculture, Agroforestry and Natural Resources Education (ANAFE), the International Foundation for Science (IFS), the NEPAD Planning and Coordinating Agency (NPCA), and the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM), in collaboration with the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA).

1African nationals working or studying abroad and doing research on African issues linked to/and contributing to Africa’s development. Proof of citizenship is required.

For more information Click Here

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