INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTARY SERVICE

This project was foreseen in, and is closely related to an IVS general support grant project approved in 6/74 (932004201). A professionally staffed Development Program and Evaluation Office (DPEO) will be established and maintained within IVS. The DPEO will have two basic functions: (1) to provide IVS with an enhanced program design capability; and (2) to design and assist in the implementation of on-going and end-of-project evaluations for IVS. Two professionals to be attached to the DPEO will be recruited and supported with the help of grant funds. These individuals should, preferably, have a graduate degree in economic and/or social development policy and implementation, with a strong background in economics and a focus in rural development planning. They should also have field experience in field activities, experience as a volunteer, or other relevant experience. The DPEO will be assisted, in conjunction with host institutions, USAID missions, and others, in the development of integrated rural development plans for specific geographical locations and within a specific time framework. DPEO will also be aided in developing clearly defined sectoral projects. These program plans will be of sufficient caliber to qualify for international donor support. An in-house capacity for professionally designed and implemented program evaluations will also be developed. An indefinite quantity contract study of the IVS will then be performed, with recommendations made for improving the IVS programming and evaluation system. In addition to work on specific projects, the DPEO would be responsible generally for the upgrading of IVS staff skills, both in Washington and in the field.