GEOP Program Senior Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development to its staff. UNICEF is known for its inclusive culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, making it a desirable workplace for individuals passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and communities worldwide.

Job Overview:
The GEOP Program Senior Consultant will play a crucial role in the Ghana Education Outcomes Project (GEOP), which aims to improve learning outcomes and reintegrate out-of-school children in northern Ghana. This position involves serving as the primary in-country representative for the GEOP program, focusing on stakeholder engagement and ensuring progress on key workstreams. The consultant will be responsible for providing technical input and driving initiatives that align with the project's goals, particularly in relation to the Accelerated Learning Programme (ALP) and the Mainstream School Improvement Programme (MSIP). The consultant's work will be pivotal in achieving the desired outcomes of the GEOP, which is embedded within the World Bank-funded GALOP.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Act as the primary liaison for the GEOP program, coordinating with stakeholders including government entities, educational institutions, and community organizations.
• Drive stakeholder engagement to ensure alignment and progress on agreed priority workstreams.
• Provide technical input and guidance on design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and implementation, particularly in the areas of literacy and numeracy.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the GEOP initiatives, making recommendations for improvements as necessary.
• Prepare and present reports on program progress and outcomes to UNICEF and other stakeholders.
• Collaborate with the World Bank and other partners to ensure the successful delivery of outcomes payments.
• Facilitate workshops and training sessions for educators and stakeholders involved in the GEOP.
• Ensure compliance with UNICEF's policies and standards throughout the program's implementation.

Required Qualifications:

• A Master's degree in International Development, Education, Public Policy, Social Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in the education sector, particularly in public policy and program design.
• Proven experience working with the government in Ghana and understanding of the local education landscape.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to develop innovative solutions to complex challenges.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in a relevant field such as International Development, Education, Public Policy, or Social Science. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively contribute to the GEOP program.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience, particularly in the education sector. Candidates should have a strong background in public policy, program design, and implementation, with specific experience working in the education sector in Ghana. Familiarity with innovative finance and its application in educational programs is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent written and verbal communication skills. Knowledge of additional languages spoken in Ghana may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is full-time and may involve travel within Ghana. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those with disabilities. The organization adheres to a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and is committed to safeguarding the rights of children. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks and must comply with UNICEF's standards and principles. Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications through the online recruitment portal, including an up-to-date CV, cover letter, and a separate financial proposal.