National Aquaculture Development Expert-Unido, Karachi

United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), Vienna, Austria          Req Code: 5092                                                          Qualification:

• Advanced university degree in Aquaculture, Fisheries Science, Environmental Management or a related field, is required.

Experience:

• At least five (5) years of professional experience in aquaculture or fisheries value chain development is required.
• Proven expertise in developing and delivering training programs, including ToT modules and field-based training is required.
• Strong background in business planning, market analysis, and export readiness is required. Experience with compliance, certification processes, and environmental sustainability initiatives is desirable.
• Prior experience with international organizations, donor-funded projects, or development agencies is highly desirable.
• Fluency in written and spoken English is required. Fluency and/or working knowledge of Urdu is desirable.            

Functional Responsibilities:

• Develop Training-of-Trainers (ToT) Modules: Collaborate with international fisheries experts to design and deliver Training-of-Trainers (ToT) modules tailored to the needs of coastal districts in Sindh. These modules will focus on critical areas such as sustainable pond management, fish breeding, water quality control, and disease prevention. Additionally, business-oriented topics like financial planning, market analysis, and digital marketing will be included to enhance the business acumen of local trainers. The goal is to equip trainers with the knowledge and tools needed to support fish farmers effectively. Comprehensive training materials, including manuals and digital guides (code of practices), will be developed to ensure knowledge sustainability. Design and Implement Farm Field Schools (FFS): Establish Farm Field Schools (FFS) in the coastal districts of Sindh to provide practical, on-site training to fish farmers. These schools will focus on hands-on learning, covering essential topics such as pond preparation, feeding strategies, water management, and post-harvest handling. The FFS will foster peer-to-peer learning and encourage the adoption of improved practices. Regular sessions will be conducted to ensure that farmers can apply the techniques effectively, leading to better productivity and profitability. Develop Business Plans for Fisheries Enterprises: Develop customized business plans, together with international experts, for small, medium and large pond fish holders, hatcheries, and related enterprises in Sindh’s coastal districts. These plans will address critical areas such as production optimization, value addition, market linkages, and supply chain improvements for feed and medicine. By providing detailed financial projections and strategies for accessing grants or investments, the business plans will help these enterprises achieve sustainable growth. Hands-on support will be provided during the initial implementation phase to ensure successful execution. Introduce Best Practices for Sustainable Fisheries Operations: Enhance productivity and environmental sustainability and identify and promote best practices in aquaculture tailored to the coastal districts of Sindh. These practices will include efficient feed utilization, disease management, and sustainable pond operations. Demonstration projects will be established to showcase these practices, and farmers will be trained on adopting environmentally friendly solutions, such as waste recycling and renewable energy use. Continuous feedback mechanisms will be implemented to refine these practices and maximize their impact. Market Intelligence, Export Readiness, and Compliance: Conduct market analysis to provide fisheries enterprises in coastal Sindh with insights into local and international market trends. This will help identify demand patterns and opportunities for value-added products. Enterprises will be guided on export readiness, including quality standards and supply chain optimization. Training will be provided on compliance with food safety regulations and obtaining certifications such as HACCP and ISO, enabling access to premium export markets and enhancing the competitiveness of the fisheries sector.