What qualifications do I need?
There is no hard and fast rule about what qualifications you need to be a part of the AYAD Program. There are no minimum requirements that go across all assignments.
The way it works
You need to have the skills and experience to do the assignment for which you are applying. Assignments vary greatly in terms of the sectors, the technical components and the level of experience required. So some assignments will require you to have finished a university degree or apprenticeship and spent a couple of years working in your field while other assignments will expect that you will have some work under your belt and a demonstrated interest in the field of the assignment you are applying for.
The best way to tell is to read the objectives of the assignment you are applying for. That will give you a strong idea of the kinds of tasks you will be asked to carry out while on assignment and you can then decide whether you think you would be able to do those tasks.
A good way to look at assignments is to look at the skills and experience you have and then check out assignments in your sector. When you read an assignment if you think 'I can do that!' then we would encourage you to apply. You can then use the Statement Against Selection Criteria to show how, from you experience, you would be able to do the assignment you are applying for.
The Selection Panel looks holistically at the experiences, skills and qualifications of candidates. Previous volunteer work, coaching a sporting team, mentoring in your workplace, travel and a demonstrated interest in working in a developing country all count towards your ability to be a good AYAD volunteer.
You will see that when assignments are advertised they include a qualifications section. This will give you a good idea of the level of skills and experience the Host Organisation is hoping for - you are not expected to have exactly the degree/ diploma/work experience mentioned. Look at the objectives of the assignment and see whether your skills, experience and qualification can fulfil those objectives.