Individual Consultant: Strategy, Policy and Planning in Education

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, the United Nations Children's Fund, is a leading humanitarian and development agency that has been working globally for the rights of every child for nearly 74 years. Established in 1946, UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories, focusing on protecting the rights of children and improving their lives. The organization aims to ensure that every child has the opportunity to survive, thrive, and fulfill their potential, contributing to a better world for everyone. UNICEF's mission encompasses various aspects of child welfare, including safe shelter, nutrition, health care, education, and protection from disaster and conflict. The agency is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, promoting flexible work arrangements to support a healthy work-life balance for all staff. UNICEF has also been recognized for its efforts in gender equality in the workplace, being the first UN agency to receive the EDGE certification, which is a global standard for gender equality. The organization prides itself on fostering a multicultural and harmonious work environment, with a zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse, as well as harassment and discrimination. All selected candidates undergo rigorous reference and background checks to ensure the integrity of the hiring process.

Job Overview:
The Individual Consultant for Strategy, Policy and Planning in Education will play a crucial role in supporting UNICEF's mission to improve educational outcomes for children, particularly in disadvantaged communities. This position is open to both national and international candidates and is primarily home-based, with the consultant expected to manage their own time and deliverables according to a specific schedule. The consultant will be responsible for developing strategic plans and policies that align with UNICEF's goals in education, ensuring that all initiatives are evidence-based and focused on achieving measurable results. The role requires a deep understanding of educational systems, policies, and practices, as well as the ability to engage with various stakeholders, including government officials, educators, and community leaders. The consultant will also be expected to contribute to the development of high-quality knowledge products, such as policy briefs and donor proposals, that effectively communicate UNICEF's objectives and strategies in the education sector. This position offers an opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of children and their families by enhancing educational access and quality.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Individual Consultant include, but are not limited to:

• Conducting comprehensive assessments of current educational policies and practices to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement.
• Developing strategic plans and policy recommendations that align with UNICEF's objectives in education.
• Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to gather insights and feedback on proposed strategies.
• Preparing high-quality knowledge products, including policy briefs, donor proposals, and strategy notes, that effectively communicate UNICEF's vision and objectives in education.
• Managing the delivery of consultancy services according to the agreed-upon schedule and ensuring timely submission of all deliverables.
• Participating in meetings and workshops as required, including visits to UNICEF office premises for discussions with the contract supervisor.
• Providing technical assistance and capacity-building support to UNICEF staff and partners in the education sector.
• Monitoring and evaluating the impact of implemented strategies and policies, making adjustments as necessary to achieve desired outcomes.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for this position should possess the following qualifications:

• A strong background in education policy, planning, and strategy development, with a proven track record of successful consultancy work in the education sector.
• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information and present it in a clear and concise manner.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in project management and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.
• A commitment to UNICEF's mission and values, with a passion for improving educational outcomes for children.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a minimum of a Master's degree in Education, Public Policy, International Development, or a related field. A Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree is preferred and may be an advantage in the selection process. Relevant certifications or training in education policy and planning will also be considered an asset.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in education policy, planning, and strategy development. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of UNICEF's mission, is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the education sector, particularly in low-resource settings.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly those relevant to the regions where UNICEF operates, is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is contract-based for a duration of 10 months, with a focus on deliverables rather than hours worked. The consultant will primarily work remotely but may be required to visit UNICEF office premises for meetings as agreed with the contract supervisor. The application process requires submission of a cover letter, an updated CV, two relevant writing samples, and a financial proposal. It is important to note that UNICEF does not charge any fees during any stage of the recruitment process, and all selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks. Women, trans, non-binary, and gender-diverse candidates are strongly encouraged to apply, as UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce.