Work-based Learning Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is focused on expanding access to internships and work-based learning opportunities for refugee students in higher education, particularly in Ethiopia and Kenya. It aims to address the barriers faced by these students in transitioning from education to employment. The organization operates in various countries, emphasizing the importance of structured work-based learning as a means to improve employability and facilitate the school-to-work transition for young refugees. The project is part of a broader initiative to enhance educational outcomes and labor market integration for marginalized groups.

Job Overview:
The Work-based Learning Consultant will play a crucial role in mapping and assessing work-based learning components integrated into higher education programs attended by DAFI scholars in Ethiopia and Kenya. The consultant will evaluate participation levels, perceived outcomes, and barriers to access for refugee students. This position requires a comprehensive understanding of the operational context surrounding higher education and employment for refugees, as well as the ability to analyze linkages between educational institutions and the private sector. The consultant will conduct a literature review, collect primary data, analyze findings, and disseminate results through stakeholder workshops. The assignment is home-based and is expected to last for four months, requiring full-time commitment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for the following duties:

• Conduct a literature review and systems mapping of work-based learning components in higher education programs for DAFI scholars in Ethiopia and Kenya.
• Assess participation levels of refugee students in work-based learning opportunities and identify perceived outcomes and barriers.
• Analyze the linkages between higher education institutions and the private sector to understand employer awareness and readiness to host refugee students.
• Identify opportunities to strengthen institutional frameworks that support work-based learning for refugees.
• Collect primary data through surveys, interviews, and focus groups.
• Prepare and submit a literature review and systems mapping report by October 202
• Complete data collection tools and datasets by November 202
• Draft a comparative analysis report by December 202
• Submit a final report and policy brief by December 202
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• Facilitate online stakeholder validation workshops with participants from Ethiopia and Kenya.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires the following qualifications:

• A degree in a relevant field such as education, social sciences, or a related discipline.
• Fluent proficiency in English is mandatory.
• Demonstrated experience in higher education, technical and vocational education and training (TVET), or work-based learning research.
• Strong familiarity with refugee education and protection contexts.
• Understanding of higher education policy, labor market dynamics, and private sector engagement in East Africa.
• Proficiency in mixed-methods research and participatory approaches.
• At least 6 years of relevant work experience in similar roles.
• Excellent writing and facilitation skills in English.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a degree in a relevant field, which may include education, social sciences, or a related discipline. The educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of higher education systems, labor market dynamics, and the specific challenges faced by refugee students in accessing work-based learning opportunities.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant work experience, particularly in areas related to higher education, work-based learning, or refugee education. Candidates should have a proven track record of conducting research, analyzing data, and engaging with stakeholders in the education and employment sectors. Experience in mixed-methods research and participatory approaches is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the socio-economic and legal barriers faced by refugees in accessing education and employment.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as all reports and communications will be conducted in English. While not required, knowledge of additional languages relevant to the regions of Ethiopia and Kenya may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances the consultant's ability to engage with local stakeholders and participants.

Additional Notes:
This position is remote and does not require a functional clearance. The assignment is expected to last for four months, with a full-time commitment required. The consultant will be compensated on a monthly basis, with remuneration levels and applicable entitlements varying based on the residence of the selected candidate. The selection process may include a written test to assess the candidate's qualifications and suitability for the role.