Job Description: Community Education Contractor (Cooker and Pump Use Education Program)

Organization: Affordable Solar for Villagers (AS4V)
Position: Community Education Contractor
Location: Blantyre
Duration: 3-month contract (Renewable based on performance and funding)
Reports to: AS4V Director

Background

AS4V is implementing an Education Program aimed at improving the adoption and effective use of solar-powered cookers and irrigation pumps under the Modern Energy Cooking Services (MECS) program. Data shows that up to 80% of customers are not actively using the systems, largely due to lack of training and awareness. The Education Program will address this gap through hands-on training, demonstrations, and community engagement, starting with a pilot in Lundu and Mchinji districts.

Key Responsibilities

The Education Contractor will

1. Conduct Customer Cooker and Pump use Trainings.
   • Train household customers on the use of solar cookers, irrigation pumps, batteries, and solar panels.
   • Demonstrate proper cooking techniques using local recipes on solar cookers.
   • Show customers how to maintain and troubleshoot common problems.
2. Data recording and Reporting
   • Shall record data of trained Households and Report to AS4V.
3. Support Women Shop Owners
   • Train and mentor women-led solar shop owners to become local trainers.
   • Assist shops in organizing regular demonstrations for prospective customers.
4. Community Outreach and Advocacy
   • Address cultural beliefs and misconceptions about solar cooking.
   • Highlight the benefits of solar technology.

Qualifications and Skills

• Minimum of a Diploma (From recognized institutions) in Community Development, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, Public Health, or related field.
• Experience in community mobilization, training, or extension work (especially with women’s groups).
• Strong communication skills in Chichewa and English (other local languages an added advantage).
• Ability to prepare basic reports and data collection forms.
• Passion for renewable energy, women’s empowerment, and rural development.
• Willingness to travel frequently within project districts.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit

• A CV (max 2 pages).
• A short cover letter highlighting relevant experience.
• Two references.

Send applications to: solarkumidzi@gmail.com with the subject line “Community Education Contractor Application – AS4V”. By 24/09/2025