FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION OF THE UNITED NATIONS (FAO)
Deadline for Application: 19 August 2025
Job Title: Agricultural Extension Specialist
Type of Requisition: PSA.NAT
Duty Station: Home-Based
Organizational Unit: FAO Lesotho
Duration: 60 Days
Important Notice
- FAO is committed to workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, background, and culture.
- Qualified female applicants, nationals of non- and under-represented Members, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
- FAO has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination.
- All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks.
- Applications will be treated with strict confidentiality.
Organizational Setting
FAO supports the transformation to efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems for better production, nutrition, environment, and life. In Lesotho, FAO assists the government in developing policies and projects to achieve food security and sustainable resource use.
FAO, through its technical cooperation programme, is supporting the digitization of agriculture under the global flagship initiative on Digital Villages, piloting AI-assisted agricultural extension services. This requires an Agricultural Extension Specialist to develop extension content for the AI platform.
Reporting Lines
The incumbent will work under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative in Lesotho and direct supervision of the Assistant FAO Representative (Programme), collaborating with ITU technical teams and government inter-ministerial teams.
Technical Focus
The pilot focuses on agronomy and digital innovation for delivering agricultural extension and advisory services to farming communities.
Tasks and Responsibilities
- Compile and organize background information to identify priority commodities for AI-assisted advisory services.
- Collect and compile extension and advisory materials from Lesotho and the subregion.
- Coordinate expert reviews and technical validation with relevant institutions.
- Organize stakeholder workshops (extension workers, experts, farmers) to review advisory messages.
- Incorporate feedback and finalize extension dossiers.
- Work with AI technical teams to customize data and improve advisory messages.
- Submit a final report.
Minimum Requirements
- Master’s degree in Agricultural Extension, Agronomy, or related field.
- At least 5 years’ experience in agricultural extension, agronomy, or related field.
- Proficiency in English.
- National of Lesotho or resident with a valid work permit.
FAO Core Competencies
- Results Focus
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Building Effective Relationships
- Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement
Technical/Functional Skills
- Strong analytical, research, and writing skills.
- Experience with Microsoft CoPilot and digital tools is an advantage.
- Experience in international projects and training programs is desirable.
- Ability to manage stakeholder consultations and write clear reports.
Additional Information
- FAO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
- Only qualifications from accredited institutions (listed in WHED: www.whed.net) will be considered.
- Appointment is subject to medical fitness, residency/visa requirements, and security clearances.
How to Apply
Apply online via the FAO recruitment portal.
Ensure your profile is complete with employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills.