Research & Projects Volunteer- Sri Lanka

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RESEARCH & PROJECTS VOLUNTEER - SRI LANKA

Location: Batticaloa

Dates: June onwards (Flexible)

Duration: 5-12 weeks

THE ROLE

Street Child is looking for individuals hoping to gain valuable experience in the development sector by undertaking an international volunteering role in Sri Lanka.

Street Child is a charity dedicated to empowering some of the most vulnerable children in the world by giving them the chance to go to school and giving their families the sustainable means to keep them there.

We have identified that out of school children is one of Sri Lanka’s main development issues, particularly those in marginalised communities, despite having an overall literacy rate of over 90%. Street Child is currently seeking to pilot and expand a series of projects in Sri Lanka which intend to provide children the opportunity to access education that is inclusive, sustainable and life-saving. This placement is a unique opportunity to make a critical contribution to an organisation that is setting up and scaling its efforts within various communities in rural and urban Sri Lanka.

Street Child offers placements for 5 to 12 weeks, supporting work in our country office in Batticaloa as well as in the field where we collaborate with local partner organisations. As we’re still in early days of our work in the country, willingness to be flexible is central to our needs.

Working alongside the local team, your key responsibilities will include but are not limited to -

• Coordinate primary and secondary research using bespoke methodologies and methods, including appropriate tools for research with children, their communities and other relevant stakeholders
• Conducting literature reviews on assigned issues, proposing frameworks for how these issues can be understood within Street Child
• Creating/ reviewing research papers with recommendations for Street Child and relevant stakeholders; these papers will form the basis for future research and initiatives
• Supporting the design and delivery of projects; including travel to the field sites where necessary
• Scoping new partnerships and maintaining current relationships with other organisations
• Identifying potential local and international funders and writing in depth funding proposals to these organisations as required

QUALIFICATIONS

• A research degree with a strong academic record
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Extremely Independent and capable of proactive work plan management with minimal support and guidance
• Flexible, adaptable and able to thrive in a start-up environment
• Thoughtful, resourceful, reflective, and eager to learn
• Culturally responsive and respectful
• Professional and diligent in presentation and conduct
• Keen interest in understanding and contributing to the development sector

TERMS

The successful applicant must be prepared to live and work in austere conditions when required, and to travel independently to urban, rural and remote project sites. The applicant must be able to manage his or her work plan and report regularly to the team on progress, and will be considered a valued member of the team.

A fundraising commitment will be required of the successful applicant, for which support will be provided by Street Child UK staff. Flights and food are at the applicant’s own expense. Accommodation will be provided by Street Child at a fixed cost, and will require sharing rooms with another volunteer of any gender. A detailed breakdown of costs and expenses will be provided for those applicants selected for interview.

Whilst this is initially a voluntary role, for applicants with relevant experience who have the ability to add strategic value, there is potential to attain a more permanent position with the organisation.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Please send your cover letter and CV to intvol@street-child.co.uk outlining your experience, interest in the placement and availability.