Digital Learning 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 passionate culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, aiming to create a workforce that reflects the diversity of the children it serves.

Job Overview:
The Digital Learning Consultant will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive analysis of the digital landscape in South Sudan, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for digital learning. This role involves assessing the digital divide affecting children and young people, evaluating the quality and accessibility of digital learning content and platforms, and identifying the skills gap among teachers and learners. The consultant will work closely with the Ministry of General Education and Instruction (MoGEI) and UNICEF colleagues to develop a strategic report that outlines practical recommendations for enhancing digital learning in the country. The consultant will adopt a participatory approach, ensuring that the analysis is informed by the perspectives of various stakeholders, including government entities, NGOs, and the private sector. The final deliverables will include an inception report, a draft and final analysis report, and presentations summarizing key findings.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct a desk review of existing literature and data on digital learning opportunities and connectivity in South Sudan.
• Develop a detailed methodology and activity plan for the Digital Learning in South Sudan Landscape Analysis.
• Perform research and data analysis to assess the availability, quality, and use of digital learning content and platforms.
• Identify gaps, bottlenecks, and opportunities for expanding digital learning in South Sudan.
• Map ongoing and planned initiatives by the government and other stakeholders aimed at improving digital connectivity and learning.
• Provide practical recommendations for strategies to enhance internet connectivity and digital learning access.
• Collaborate with MoGEI’s ICT Unit and UNICEF colleagues throughout the consultancy.
• Prepare and present findings and recommendations to stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Education, IT, or a related field. They should have a minimum of 8 years of professional experience in qualitative research methods, monitoring and evaluation, and implementation of monitoring systems in developing countries. A sound knowledge of research methodologies, both quantitative and qualitative, is essential. Practical experience in managing primary research in challenging environments, particularly in remote and marginalized communities, is required. Relevant experience in the education sector in Eastern and Southern Africa, particularly in South Sudan, is desirable. Familiarity with technology for development and digital platforms for low-bandwidth settings is also advantageous. Strong writing, editing, and communication skills in English are mandatory.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in Education, IT, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background should provide a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of digital learning and educational technology.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of professional experience, particularly in qualitative research methods and monitoring and evaluation within the education sector. Candidates should have experience working in developing countries, with a focus on the unique challenges faced in South Sudan. Experience in engaging with government entities, particularly the Ministry of General Education and Instruction, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Additional languages relevant to the South Sudan context may be considered an asset but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy is expected to last until 15 March 2026, with specific deliverables due at various stages throughout the consultancy period. The position is not a full-time staff role but rather a consultancy, meaning that the selected candidate will not be considered a staff member under UNICEF's regulations and will not receive benefits typically afforded to staff. The consultant will be responsible for their own tax liabilities and must ensure that they have the necessary visa and health insurance for the duration of the contract. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women and individuals with disabilities.