Introduction

The International Organization (IOM) announces a Call for Expressions of Interest from civil society organizations and NGOs to submit proposals for participation in the project ‘Promotion of Language and Human Rights in Kosovo – Phase II’ funded by the UNMIK.

Background

The Law on the Use of Languages (LUL) mandates that all public institutions and service providers in Kosovo  ensure equal access and status for both official languages, Albanian and Serbian, as well as other languages officially recognized at the municipal level. Established in April 2012 within the Office of the Prime Minister, the Office of the Language Commissioner (OLC) monitors the implementation of this law. Its responsibilities include promoting the preservation, promotion, and protection of official languages, ensuring their equal status, and raising public awareness about language rights among various communities.

The ‘Promoting and Advancing Language Rights in Kosovo’ project, funded by UNMIK and implemented by IOM, plays an important role in improving the implementation of the LUL through various activities. Building on previous efforts, the second phase of the project began in September 2024.

In this phase, IOM is seeking for reputable and experience NGO to implement the training to improve professional output and introduce modern technologies in work of the municipal translators and interpreters.

Objective

The objective of this intervention is to improve the professional skills and output of municipal translators and interpreters by enhancing their knowledge of ethical behavior, confidentiality, and interpretation techniques. It introduces modern translation technologies like SDL Trados to boost work quality and consistency, and teaches practical note-taking and research skills for better consecutive interpretation and terminology accuracy. Ultimately, the training aims to raise professional standards and equip participants with the tools and techniques needed for more effective translation and interpretation work.

Proposed interventions

The training for municipal translators and interpreters should focus on improving professional standards and introducing modern technologies to enhance work quality. The training should consists:

- Focus on professional conduct, particularly in simultaneous and consecutive interpretation. Trainers to address common issues like interpreters giving unsolicited advice during sessions, discussing its negative impact, and teaching proper behavior.

- Emphasis on confidentiality during written translations and meetings, stressing the importance of keeping all information private and maintaining booth etiquette.

- Techniques for interpreting in person, especially when dealing with challenging speakers. Focus on strategies like “jumping-in” smoothly when interpreting in real time.

- Core principles like linear translation, reformulation, prediction, and editing will be taught, with exercises to improve interpretation quality and output.

- Special focus on note-taking techniques for consecutive interpretation, presenting various methods and the timing of interpretation.

Introduction to CAT Tools (Computer-Assisted Translation Tools):

- Detailed training on using SDL Trados, the leading tool in the market. Participants will learn to create projects, use add-in tools, and explore untapped resources that can enhance written translation consistency and quality.

- Practical sessions where participants, in small groups, will work on projects using the tools under trainer supervision.

- Trainers to share research methods and resources they use for finding appropriate terminology and enhancing translation work. Participants will gain insight into open-source research techniques.

- Conduct the pre and post testing in order to measure the level of gained knowledge through the training and level of success of the intervention.

These activities aim to boost professionalism, improve translation/interpretation quality, and introduce essential modern tools and techniques to municipal interpreters in Kosovo.

Overarching Outcomes:

The overarching outcomes of this intervention include enhanced professionalism, improved translation and interpretation quality, and increased efficiency through the use of CAT tools like SDL Trados. Participants will be better prepared to handle complex interpretation challenges, uphold confidentiality, and conduct effective research for accurate translations. Overall, the training will strengthen their capacity to perform at a higher professional level in their work.

Expected results:

The expected results of this training include improved adherence to professional ethics, better interpretation and translation quality, and enhanced use of CAT tools like SDL Trados. Participants will gain confidence in managing challenging situations, apply efficient research methods, and work more effectively in teams. Overall, the training will lead to higher professional standards and more consistent, high-quality translation services.

Impact:

The impact of this training will be a significant improvement in the overall quality and professionalism of municipal translation and interpretation services. Translators and interpreters will be better equipped to handle complex situations, use modern tools effectively, and maintain ethical standards, leading to more accurate and reliable communication in municipal affairs. This, in turn, will foster better interactions between government institutions and the public, enhancing trust and efficiency in municipal operations. Additionally, the use of technology like SDL Trados will improve consistency in written translations, raising the standard of municipal documents and communications.

Partnerships and collaboration

The project will collaborate with experienced NGOs to provide a required training.

In addition, partnering with municipal authorities to identify specific needs, ensure relevance, and facilitate participation from municipal translators and interpreters.

Proposed timeline:

November 2024

Qualification and experience

The NGO must have skilled trainers capable of conducting the training for approximately 40 participants, possessing relevant expertise and experience, such as:

• A degree in translation, interpretation, linguistics, or a related field.
• Advanced qualifications, such as a master's degree or professional certification in translation or interpretation, are highly desirable.
• Extensive practical experience in translation and interpretation, preferably in municipal or governmental settings.
• Experience with both simultaneous and consecutive interpretation techniques, showcasing proficiency in managing live translation scenarios.
• Proficiency in using CAT tools, especially SDL Trados. Ability to demonstrate best practices and techniques for using technology to enhance translation quality and efficiency.
• Experience in conducting training workshops, seminars, or courses for translators and interpreters.
• Strong presentation and communication skills to engage participants effectively and facilitate group discussions.
• Understanding of professional ethics and best practices in translation and interpretation, with the ability to impart this knowledge to participants.
• Awareness of cultural nuances that may affect interpretation and translation, with the ability to guide participants in navigating these aspects.

Submission of the project proposal

The application must be submitted by e-mail to the IOM.

Applications are submitted exclusively via the e-mail address: iompristinaapplications@iom.int,

The application is submitted via e-mail in PDF format (signed and scanned).

Place and deadline for submission of the project

The Application must be submitted electronically, and documents signed via email at: iompristinaapplications@iom.int, no later than 21^st of November 2024, before midnight. Late Application after the deadline will not be considered.