Associate Education Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), which was established in 195

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state. UNHCR works to ensure that refugees can return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. The organization operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members dedicated to protecting and assisting refugees and displaced persons worldwide. UNHCR's work is guided by the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence, and it aims to provide international protection and humanitarian assistance to those in need.

Job Overview:
The Associate Education Officer position is crucial for supporting the implementation of the Refugee Education 2030 strategy, which aligns with the Global Compact on Refugees. This role involves advocating for and enhancing the quality and inclusiveness of national education systems to facilitate access for refugee and host community children and youth to education at all levels. The Associate Education Officer will work closely with UNHCR Country Offices and partners to ensure that educational programming is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The incumbent will be responsible for promoting equitable access to education, fostering safe learning environments, and enabling learners to utilize their education for sustainable futures. This position requires a strong understanding of the Central African education system and the challenges related to inclusion, quality, and equity in education, particularly in humanitarian contexts. The role also demands excellent communication skills in both French and English, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to the principles of equality, inclusion, and diversity.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Education Officer include staying informed about political, social, economic, and cultural developments affecting education access and quality. The officer will actively pursue opportunities to implement UNHCR's urban policy and support the integration of refugees into national education systems. Responsibilities also include providing technical advice on education issues, coordinating with partners to adapt the Education Strategy to local contexts, and ensuring coherent annual planning and monitoring of education programs. The officer will advocate for the rights of persons of concern (PoC) to education, facilitate inter-sectoral linkages with other programmatic areas, and support the development of global education policies. The role involves identifying training needs, conducting training sessions, and ensuring compliance with global protection policies. The Associate Education Officer will also engage in direct dialogue with Country Offices regarding education program implementation and contribute to the planning and coordination of UNHCR's education initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a solid background in education programming, with relevant experience in progressively responsible functions in education. Essential qualifications include demonstrated work experience in education programs, field experience in education program implementation and coordination in humanitarian or development contexts, and experience working with government entities, particularly Ministries of Education. Strong interpersonal skills, analytical abilities, and excellent communication and presentation skills are required. The candidate should also demonstrate the capacity to work independently and effectively under pressure. Desirable qualifications include experience in refugee education programs, knowledge of UNHCR policies, and experience in child protection.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's degree in Education, Social Sciences, or a related field. Candidates with a Graduate degree or Doctorate in relevant fields will be considered with reduced years of experience. Certifications in project management or education in emergency situations are considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's profile for this role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience with an undergraduate degree, two years with a graduate degree, or one year with a doctorate. Candidates should have substantial experience in education programming, particularly in contexts involving refugees or displaced persons, and should demonstrate a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities in education within humanitarian settings.

Languages:
Knowledge of English and the UN working language of the duty station (French) is mandatory. For national professional jobs, knowledge of the local language is also required. Proficiency in additional languages is considered an advantage, particularly in enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a UNOPS IICA1 role and is not remote. The target start date for the position is December 1, 202

• The role is categorized under a non-family residential location, indicating that the position may not be suitable for family members accompanying the staff member. The position is full-time and involves significant interaction with various stakeholders, including government officials, NGOs, and educational institutions.