FLTC 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. UNICEF employs a large workforce dedicated to serving children and communities globally, fostering a culture of inclusivity and belonging.

Job Overview:
The primary objective of the FLTC Consultant position is to provide technical assistance to the Ministry of Education (MoE) in Zambia, focusing on advancing Foundational Learning (FL) outcomes. The consultant will strengthen coordination among MoE directorates, institutions, and partners involved in foundational learning. This includes operationalizing the Foundational Learning Technical Committee (FLTC) and establishing effective linkages with other relevant coordination platforms to ensure a harmonized and impactful approach to foundational learning. The role requires a deep understanding of the education sector in Zambia, particularly in early childhood education (ECE) and primary education, and aims to address the challenges faced by children in the country.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide technical assistance to the Ministry of Education in advancing Foundational Learning outcomes.
• Strengthen coordination among MoE directorates, institutions, and partners working on foundational learning.
• Operationalize the Foundational Learning Technical Committee (FLTC).
• Establish effective linkages with other relevant coordination platforms.
• Ensure a harmonized and impactful approach to foundational learning.
• Collaborate with government ministries and development partners to enhance educational outcomes.
• Manage and facilitate meetings and workshops related to foundational learning initiatives.
• Monitor and evaluate the progress of foundational learning programs and provide feedback for improvement.
• Develop reports and documentation to communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders. 1
• Engage with community stakeholders to promote awareness and support for foundational learning initiatives.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced degree in Education, Public Administration, Development Studies, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in the education sector.
• Demonstrated experience working with government ministries and development partners.
• Strong organizational, communication, and facilitation skills.
• Experience in monitoring and evaluation (M&E) is considered an asset.
• Knowledge of Zambia’s education sector, with emphasis on ECE and Primary Education.
• Proven technical expertise in foundational learning, including literacy and numeracy.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience working directly with the Ministry of Education.
• Strong skills in managing coordination platforms.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in Education, Public Administration, Development Studies, or a related field. This educational background is essential to understand the complexities of the education sector and to effectively contribute to foundational learning initiatives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of experience in the education sector, with at least 3 years of direct experience working with the Ministry of Education. Candidates should have a proven track record of working with government ministries and development partners, demonstrating strong organizational and communication skills. Experience in monitoring and evaluation is considered an asset, as is a deep understanding of Zambia’s education sector, particularly in early childhood and primary education.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within UNICEF and with government partners. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Zambia would be considered an asset, as it may facilitate better communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may involve working in a dynamic environment that requires flexibility and adaptability. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those from underrepresented groups. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks, and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates should be aware that UNICEF does not charge any processing fees during the recruitment process and has a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and appointments are subject to medical clearance and visa requirements.