The Internships will be practical hands-on-work with Agro Processors in Jamaica. Agro Processors in Jamaica are an essential part of the agricultural sector of Jamaica. Instead of relying solely on growing primary crops (commodities) where cost of production and price drive the economics of the sector, agro processors and value to crops and involve sophisticated marketing strategies. Agro Processors are a strong market for small medium sized farmres in Jamaica. They are also a large source of employment for rural women (seasonal). A recent study on the agro processing sector indicated that there was a lack of trained management, acute working capital deficiency, weak marketing efforts, inadequate human resources, and inadequacies in technical competence.

The IT internships seek to address the above mentioned issues. The majority of the agro processors in Jamaica are run by entrepreneurial people who may have specific training in one or several aspects of running their business but not all aspects. The lack of trained personnel in the industry is a major constraint.

The interns will work with targeted agro processors to address the following needs:

Website design

IT Marketing

Financial Management

Basic Computer Skills

Basic Computer Maintenace(Virus Updates,Windows Updates Defragmentation,etc.)

Data Entry (HACCP Compliance)

Interns will be provided with background studies on the agro processing sector as well as additional information that will assist them in their assignment preparation.

Financial Programs will be recommended for examination by the intern for processors. Additionally, interns will be advised to the financial/accounting needs of the processor and asked to research potential program can meet their needs.

Needs assessments will be conducted prior to the interns arrival so that the intern can adequately prepare for their assignment.

Internship Overview:
June 9: Arrive Norman Manley Airport Kingston. LOL staff greets Volunteers and provides transporation to Sandhurst Hotel. Welcome Dinner at Port Royal in the evening.
June 10-15: In-country training at Sandhurst Hotel, Kingston: Expectations of FtF, Crossing Cultures, Understanding Patios, Review of Safety and Security in Jamaica, Review of Assignments and Placements, Meetins with JEA and JEA Staff, Overviews on Agro Processing Sector, Overview on JA Economy, Field Trips and 'Shadow' Experience with US Peace Crops IT Volunteers.
June 16-28: First IT Assignment with Host; living with host family
June 29-July 11: Second IT Assignment with new host; living with host family
July 11-14: Gathering in Kingston to discuss progress on assignments
July 15-26: Third IT Assignment wit new host; living with host family
July 27-August 9: Fourth IT Assignment with new host; living with host family
August 10-15: Report Writing and Presentation of findings to JEA and LOL Staff
August 16: Depart for the USA

If interested, contact Charlie Ferreira at 656-0038 or cferreir@uvm.edu