Company Profile

WUSC (World University Service of Canada) is a Canadian non-profit organization working to create a better world for all young people. We bring together a diverse network of students, volunteers, schools, governments, and businesses who share this vision. Together, we develop solutions in education, economic opportunities, and empowerment to overcome inequality and exclusion for youth around the world, particularly young women and young refugees. WUSC currently works in 25 countries across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, with an annual budget of approximately CAD $40 million. We have over 90 staff in our Ottawa office, and over 200 people overseas implementing 16 development projects in collaboration with donors such as Global Affairs Canada, the UK Department for International Development (DFID), the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, Mastercard Foundation and the African Development Bank. 

Job Description

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (EOI)

Soliciting Expression of Interest (EOI) from Industries to Undertake Skill-Based Training 

Accelerating Change Through InnoVation in Agricultural TVET (ACTIVATE)

WUSC Background

• Provide industry-led, hands-on training in specific skills/trade areas 
• Co-design training programs that align with the competency-based standards of the ACTIVATE Project.
• Offer mentorship and supervision to trainees.
• Collaborate with the ACTIVATE Project to develop sustainability plans to ensure long-term capacity for skills development in the industry.
• Facilitate job placement and/or entrepreneurship opportunities for successful trainees.

Expected Deliverables

• A detailed training program outline for each skill area.
• Identification of resources required for the training, including personnel equipment and materials.
• A clear sustainability plan outlining the continuity of training beyond the initial partnership phase.
• Industry’s plan for providing mentorship, networking, and career support for graduates.

Training Gantt Chart and Mobilization timelines
The project has two separate cohorts (see below the Gantt Chart) to be completed between May and December 2025, with timelines (duration of training) largely determined by the skill based short courses that will be offered by prospective industries across the various zones. Successful industries will be responsible for mobilizing learners for each cohort of training.  

Required Skills or Experience

Eligibility Criteria
Industries wishing to submit an EOI must meet the following criteria:

• Capacity for Training: Must have a structured training system or the capacity to implement one.
• Relevance to Market Demand: Training offered must address specific industry needs with demonstrated demand for skills that aligns with the project sectors.
• Industry Recognition: Must be recognized as a credible leader in its field with a proven track record of successful training programs.
• Alignment of youth interest: Must demonstrate a clear understanding of the interests, aspirations, and needs of young people. Proposed training programs should be designed to align with these interests in order to enhance engagement, relevance, and the likelihood of successful outcomes. Preference will be given to industries that can show how their training offerings are youth-centered and responsive to current trends, demands, and career pathways that appeal to young learners.
• Commitment to Inclusivity: Must ensure equal training opportunities for both young men and women, including persons with disabilities and other marginalized groups. This includes providing a flexible reporting timetable to accommodate household responsibilities, offering on-site healthcare support for nursing mothers, ensuring facilities are accessible for persons with disabilities, and demonstrating a willingness to work with individuals who may lack identification documents because of their legal (or lack thereof) status.
• Infrastructure and Resources: Must have adequate resources (training facilities, equipment, and tools) to deliver quality training.
• Environmental Sustainability: Must have or commit to implementing environmental sustainability practices and willing to  incorporate environmental sustainability principles and climate resilience into training programs.
• Retention of Trainees: The industry must have the capacity to retain at least 20%  of trainees after each training cohort. Additionally, the industry should be willing to support the deployment of trainees to other sister industries where appropriate.
• Workplace Experience Learning (WEL): The industry must design the training duration to include Workplace Experience Learning (WEL), ensuring that trainees gain practical, real-world experience as part of their skill development.
• Co-investment: The industry must have the capacity to co-invest (at least 40%) in the training program. This could include financial contributions or in-kind support to cover the cost of training and other essential services needed to facilitate an effective learning environment.
• Willingness to Commit: Must be willing to sign a partnership agreement outlining roles, responsibilities, and expectations.
• Post-Training Support: Must provide aftercare support to graduates, including job placement, mentorship, and entrepreneurship assistance.