Under the Project Manager's supervision, the incumbent supports field-level execution of community mobilization and behavior change interventions in close coordination with Local Authorities (LAs) and project partners. The role involves facilitating inclusive community consultations and targeted awareness campaigns for residents, schools, and community groups surrounding the proposed waste management infrastructure to promote sustainable waste separation and circular economy principles. Additionally, the incumbent drives field-level data collection efforts by systematically monitoring community feedback, identifying emerging social risks, and tracking participation metrics. To safeguard project compliance and mitigate localized disputes, they are also responsible for supporting established grievance redress mechanisms by documenting grassroots concerns and complaints, ensuring all field data is promptly and accurately channeled through official UNOPS procedures.
The project was developed following a series of assessments and consultations conducted since 2022 by the Ministry of Provincial Councils and Local Government, KOICA, UNOPS, and relevant national and local stakeholders. These assessments identified significant gaps in waste collection, treatment, and final disposal systems in the Uva and Northern Provinces, particularly in Badulla and Vavuniya districts. Both districts were recognized as high-priority areas due to increasing waste generation, limited infrastructure, operational constraints within local authorities, and continued reliance on open dumping practices. The assessments further emphasized the need for an integrated approach that combines infrastructure development, institutional strengthening, and community participation.
Based on these assessments' findings and recommendations, the Government of Sri Lanka and KOICA agreed to develop a dedicated intervention to establish sustainable Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) systems in the selected districts. The collaboration was formalized through a Record of Discussion, and UNOPS was engaged to support implementation, drawing on its extensive experience in delivering ISWM and circular economy initiatives in Sri Lanka.
Under the supervision of the project manager, the Community Mobilisation Senior Assistant will support field-level implementation of community engagement and behaviour change activities in coordination with Local Authorities (LAs), community groups and project partners.
Community Mobilization and Local Authority Coordination
Maintain close and regular communication with LAs, community leaders and residents, particularly in communities surrounding proposed waste management infrastructures including the sanitary landfill.
Support community meetings, consultations, and engagement activities related to project infrastructure development in coordination with LAs and the project team.
Assist the project team and LAs in implementing community engagement plans and communication activities to build trust and address community concerns.
Facilitate inclusive community participation, including women and vulnerable groups, and communicate community feedback and concerns to the project team.
Support implementation Complaints and Concerns Response Mechanism (CCRM) and facilitate institutionalization of the grievance redress mechanism at the local authority level and community-based organizations.
Coordination for Behavior Change Activities
Liaise with Local Authorities, community leaders and relevant stakeholders to facilitate community participation in waste management awareness and behavior change activities implemented by service providers.
Support coordination between service providers, Local Authorities and communities to ensure smooth implementation of planned activities.
Assist in mobilizing community members, schools and relevant community groups to participate in awareness campaigns, training sessions and other project activities.
Monitoring and Reporting
Monitor community concerns, potential disputes and emerging social risks related to project infrastructure activities, and promptly report issues to the project team for appropriate follow-up.
Support the implementation of established grievance mechanisms by documenting community concerns and complaints and referring them through UNOPS procedures.
Monitor community participation and engagement activities, including those implemented by service providers, and collect relevant field information and feedback.