Center for Economic Governance and Leadership (CEGL) of University of Kigali is a pioneering training hub dedicated to empowering Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) in Rwanda. The center's vision is to be Rwanda’s leading University Business Center, empowering SMEs to contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth by creating a dynamic ecosystem where SMEs can thrive and drive sustainable development. It has mission  to support the growth and success of SMEs in Rwanda by offering innovative solutions through high-quality training programs, extensive networking, and evidence-based research, empowering SMEs with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to excel in the competitive market, fostering collaboration and strategic partnerships, and making a transformative impact on the SME landscape, thereby contributing to Rwanda’s economic development and building a prosperous future for businesses and communities. 

The primary partner organization (under contract) for this assignment is the Center for Economic Governance and Leadership (CEGL) of the University of Kigali, but the volunteer will also support other partner organizations, including, but not limited to: the Rwandan Association for the Promotion of Integrated Development (ARDI), the Rwanda Climate Change and Development Network (RCCDN), INGABO Syndicate, and Safer Rwanda.  

• In collaboration with the CEGL team at the University of Kigali, develop tools that promote gender equality and women's empowerment, including educational resources, training materials, and capacity-building programs aimed at fostering gender equality across various domains.  

• Support the partner organization on training sessions and train the CEGL team and members to ensure effective dissemination of gender equality principles and practices within the university.  

• Assist ARDI in conducting an in-depth assessment of the current gender equality situation within its programs and activities;  

• Support the design of innovative strategies and programs aimed at promoting gender equality, with a particular focus on empowering women and young rural women for ARDI, RCCDN, INGABO Syndicate, and Safer Rwanda;  

• Organize training sessions and awareness campaigns for the staff of partner organizations, community members, and other stakeholders to foster a deep understanding of gender-related issues;  

• Organize training, sharing, and learning sessions on gender equality for communities of practice at the national and regional levels;  

• Contribute to the integration of gender perspectives into programs and initiatives implemented by partners, including policies and various developed strategies and tools;  

• Support partner organizations in establishing monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to measure the impact of gender equality initiatives and adjust existing intervention approaches;  

• Actively collaborate with external partners, women's rights organizations, and other key stakeholders to strengthen efforts towards gender equality;  

• Encourage and mobilize the staff of partner organizations to promote gender equality and women's rights by participating in the development of an inclusive and equitable organizational culture;  

• Consider gender equality, rights, and diversity in all activities, with a particular focus on the participation and representation of women and young women in all activities;  

• Take into account environmental issues and climate change adaptation in all activities;  

• Ensure compliance with the organization's safety and protection guides, manuals, directives, or instructions at all times.  

• Take necessary measures to contribute to ensuring personal safety, including establishing an individual risk mitigation plan at the place of assignment;  

• Participate in communication activities to share your volunteer experience with your community and raise awareness about international solidarity issues;  

• Organize or support a fundraising activity to contribute to the community's efforts in collaboration with local partner organizations.    

• Write the required reports for the partner organization and CECI.  

• Hold a degree in gender or women’s studies, feminist studies or a related field.  
• Have a deep understanding of theoretical and practical concepts and issues related to gender equality and inclusion.  
• Have an experience in working with different organisation/institutions in gender integration and mainstreaming as well as development of tools associated.  
• Understand social dynamics and gender inequalities.  
• Be able to contextualize gender equality work within the framework of development projects.  
• Experience in designing and implementing gender equality or women's economic empowerment projects is an asset.  
• Have the ability to adapt to various situations and adjust approaches based on local needs and realities.  
• Possess excellent communication and training skills.  
• Be fluent in English and French (speaking and writing).  

VOLUNTEER BENEFITS AND SUPPORT:

• Support and guidance prior to departure and while on assignment in the country.
• Participation in a pre-assignment training where you will have the opportunity to learn about CECI and gain practical skills for working in international cooperation.
• Return flights and visas.
• Cost of required country specific vaccinations and antimalarials approved by CECI.
• Health Insurance.
• A tax-free living allowance in Canada is provided to support an adequate standard of living.
• An accommodation allowance that provides access to adequate housing.
• A unique and rewarding work experience!