NGOs and Professionalism

In the past and due to the non-technical nature of their work, NGO workers saw no need for professionalism in the way they carried out their activities. This is no longer the case because for several reasons, they have had to adopt a more professional attitude towards their work.

Some of these reasons include:
1. Donors require that an NGO be run like a business, to ensure judicious use of their donations.
2. The scope of work that NGOs undertake have become more technical in nature requiring individuals that are multidisciplined.
3. Increased competition amongst NGOs for scarce resources has also necessitated that they become more professional.
4. Generally for NGOs to be effective and efficient professionalism is a must.
5. NGOs also need to adopt a more professional attitude so as to change the negative image and bring about renewed confidence about them in the minds of the general public.

Professionalizing includes bringing in qualified individuals, the ability to concieve and finally implement systems and procedures that are relevant to the NGO’s activities.

To achieve professionalism

1. Have your staff legally employed and limit volunteerism to mobilization and campaign activities only.
2. Let existing vacancies be filled based on the candidate’s technical background and expertise
3. Use the most advanced technology that is available to carry out programmes and projects.
4. Have your accounting systems audited yearly by paid independent auditors.

These days, NGOs use paid staff in addition to organization members who do the voluntary work. This is one way of achieving professionalism in NGOs.

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