Skills developed by volunteers in the FAIR trade sector : Malta case study

Abstract

Validation of informal and non-formal learning is gaining importance within the context of the Lisbon Agenda as Europe is working towards becoming the most competitive and dynamic knowledge-based economy in the world, capable of sustainable economic growth, with more and better jobs and greater social cohesion. The FAIR trade sector in Malta consists of the activity of a small cooperative – Koperattiva Kummerc Gust (KKG), mainly involved in running a shop ‘L-Arka’, selling from stalls, organising awareness raising activities as well as political lobbying at national and European level alongside other non-governmental organisations. The aim of such initiatives is not only economic but more importantly involves raising awareness of fair trade principles with the general public and at political level. Four types of volunteer work were identified within the cooperative: sales; organisation of large activities; participation in local and trans-national projects; and running the cooperative through the main committee. The skills and knowledge learnt in each activity are identified and described in detail. Most of the skills and competences are generic and can be easily used in other economic contexts. The sector specific skill identified relates to the principles and values of fair trade. It is argued that such skill is problematic in that it is difficult to measure it in terms of observable behaviour.