Short Consultancy for Conducting Village Savings and Loans Activities at Norwegian Refugee Council

Specific objectives of the assignment

• To conduct training on VSLA concepts, principles, phases and modules.
• To provide skills and knowledge to staff and coaches on the establishment and operationalization of savings groups in VSLA model
• To train staff and coaches on record keeping, and documentation required for successful implementation of VSLA
• To provide training on available digital options and how they can be integrated into the VSLA model during implementation by savings group
• To highlight Islamic ways of loaning and knowledge about Sharia Compliance
• To conduct hands-on training on how NRC staff and coaches can facilitate the smooth implementation of the VSLA model among the project participants
• To provide skills on how NRC staff can supervise, support and monitor the coaches who will facilitate group sessions on VSLA for the target project participants

Scope of work

The following are the key areas to focus on:

• How to improve communities’ behaviour and attitude towards savings, loans and income generation during times of crises
• Establishing of savings groups and introduction of VSLA concept
• VSLA Management structures, leadership and gender composition
• Recording keeping and documentation of VSLA
• Using digital resources in VSLA
• Loaning, entrepreneurship and recovery processes.
• Referrals for tapping into available funding sources

Methodology

It is preferred for the consultant to use participatory adult learning approaches. The consultant will develop a detailed training methodology and approaches based on their understanding of the terms of reference. The final training methodology and approaches shall be agreed upon between the consultant and the NRC.

The following are the expected key tasks for this short-term consultancy:

• Develop and submit training plan / proposal to NRC for approval
• Prepare necessary handouts for the participants based on the approved training plan.
• Provide NRC with the necessary materials, handouts or manual as point of reference for the training and for reproduction and distribution to participants
• Prepare a training delivery schedule that has full itinerary of activities
• Conduct hands-on training based on participatory adult learning approaches
• Submit the final training documents (handouts, manual, power point slides, group work exercises, etc).
• Prepare and submit the training report

Management and Implementation Responsibilities

The consultant will report directly to the LFS Specialist. However, s/he will also be required to work closely with the LFS Project Coordinator (PC).

NRC will provide:

• Guidance and technical support as required throughout the training.
• Training venue
• All training materials, such as stationery; projector; VSLA kit for training, etc.
• Meals, refreshment, travel & accommodation
• Ensure all participants are present during training

The consultant will be responsible for:

• Developing and sharing with NRC the training plan
• Developing training materials and tools;
• Conducting the training in a participatory and practical way
• Sharing training report and training materials for reproduction

Contract and Logistics

• The consultant will sign a contract including terms and conditions of the consultancy and payment modalities.
• The consultant’s logistics, travel costs (to and from locations) and accommodation will be covered by NRC
• The consultant will abide by NRC’s rules and regulations related to security
• The consultant will be offered office space during the period of the Training at NRC Area Office, Kakuma

Qualifications and Experience

• A Master ‘s degree in economics, business management, rural development or relevant related disciples
• Minimum 3 years of working experience in delivering VSLA TOT training and directly training beneficiaries in VSLA methodology, with a strong focus on extremely poor market-based projects, micro-finance, small business management, and empowering women and households in refugee and host community settings.
• Demonstrated experience in facilitation of VSLA training and use of participatory and adult learning techniques. Must have conducted similar work for other INGOs or UN agencies.
• Have presentation skills and good report writing skills
• Fluent in Kiswahili and English languages, both written and verbal.