National Consultant for Youth Empowerment

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 is known for its passionate culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, aiming to build careers while serving children and communities worldwide.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant for Youth Empowerment will provide technical support to the Ministry of Youth and Arts (MOYA) in Rwanda, focusing on the implementation of youth programs aimed at enhancing school-to-work transitions and social impact. The consultant will work closely with UNICEF and other partners to ensure that programs align with national policies and strategies. The role involves supporting planning, implementation, and reporting on youth empowerment initiatives, particularly those that address the challenges faced by young people in the labor market. The consultant will also engage with local youth-led organizations to ensure their involvement in various activities, contributing to the overall goal of empowering youth and reducing unemployment rates in Rwanda.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for conducting situation analyses, planning, and reporting on youth empowerment and skills development initiatives led by MOYA and other partners. Key tasks include providing technical support for coordination with stakeholders to enhance public/private/youth partnerships, facilitating the planning and monitoring of various programs such as Ingazi, RISE, and Green Rising. The consultant will develop technical concept notes for key meetings and events, prepare consultancy reports highlighting achievements and recommendations, and ensure effective engagement with youth-led organizations. Deliverables will include progress reports, updated program documents, partnership strategies, and final reports summarizing key achievements and lessons learned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in education, economics, development studies, or a relevant technical field. A minimum of five years of professional experience in program planning, management, or research in development is required. Experience in youth empowerment programs, particularly in upskilling, employment, entrepreneurship, and career development, is essential. Relevant experience within a UN system agency is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of the challenges facing youth in Rwanda and possess the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in a relevant field such as education, economics, or development studies is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of youth empowerment and the socio-economic factors affecting young people's transition into the workforce.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of professional experience in program planning, management, or research within the development sector. Candidates should have demonstrated experience working on youth empowerment initiatives, particularly those focused on skills development and employment opportunities. Experience in a UN agency or similar organization is advantageous and will be viewed favorably during the selection process.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNICEF and with international partners. Knowledge of Kinyarwanda is considered an asset, as it will facilitate better engagement with local stakeholders and youth organizations in Rwanda.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is set for a duration of 12 months, starting from January 10, 2026, to December 31, 202

• The position is based in Rwanda, and candidates must be prepared to work in-country. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization offers a range of benefits, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates will undergo rigorous background checks and must meet medical clearance and vaccination requirements as part of the hiring process.