18 September 2008

Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire : As a UNV volunteer Training Officer at the Integrated Mission Training Centre for the United Nations Operation in Côte d’Ivoire (ONUCI), I design, develop, coordinate and evaluate training and development courses and workshops for staff to meet mission and staff needs.

This includes technical and substantive training such as induction training (for new staff in the mission); planning; train-the-trainer duties; and performance appraisals. I have to both develop and upgrade relevant training materials, and coordinate training and other related issues with military, UN police and sections at the sector level. This is to ensure that integrated training is developed and delivered to meet cross-cutting needs.

The Induction Programme lasts for three days and is mandatory for all new personnel, whether international, national, UN police, military observers or UNV volunteers. It aims to assist those new to peacekeeping in understanding the operational and cultural complexities of their working and living environment. It provides staff with the basic guidance to perform their duties effectively and safely and to behave in compliance with the values and standards of the United Nations set out in the Code of Conduct.

Human rights are an element too. The Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse is a half-day training that has been declared mandatory for all staff in peacekeeping missions. It provides peacekeepers with an understanding of what sexual exploitation and abuse is, and illustrates the destructive consequences of such acts for victims, UN peacekeepers, and the impact on the reputation and credibility of the United Nations as an institution.

Another essential is High Frequency (HF) and Very High Frequency (VHF) Radio Operation and Communication Training. Lessons are at the sector level in Daloa, and ensure that all staff members know the basics of how to operate both HF and VHF radios, especially the mobile radios fitted in the 4x4 mission vehicles. Without this knowledge, communications on the mission would break down entirely.

Then, as well as coordinating and supervising the French and English languages courses implementation in all Sector West, I evaluate the effectiveness of the training.

To me, 'volunteer' means rendering services, sharing experience and expertise where and when it's needed, regardless of the financial reward. These services have to be rendered with pride and a smile despite any obstacles or difficulties.