Project Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, is a specialized agency of the United Nations aimed at promoting world peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. Established in 1945, UNESCO has a mission to contribute to the building of peace, the eradication of poverty, sustainable development, and intercultural dialogue. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. UNESCO is dedicated to fostering educational opportunities for all, promoting cultural diversity, and advancing scientific research and knowledge sharing.

Job Overview:
The Project Assistant position at UNESCO in Tashkent is integral to supporting the Government of Uzbekistan in enhancing the quality and inclusivity of education. The role involves working closely with the Ministry of Preschool and School Education (MoPSE) and various national partners to implement UNESCO's comprehensive Education Programme. The Project Assistant will play a crucial role in strengthening teacher professional development, improving learning environments, and promoting competency-based education (CBE). The position requires a proactive individual who can provide administrative, financial, and programmatic support to ensure the successful planning, coordination, and delivery of educational activities. The incumbent will be expected to contribute to the effective implementation of multiple initiatives aimed at improving education services in Uzbekistan, particularly focusing on vulnerable learners and disadvantaged groups. This role is essential for ensuring compliance with UNESCO's regulations and achieving project results, making it a pivotal position within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Assistant will undertake a variety of administrative and programmatic tasks to support the implementation, monitoring, and reporting of project activities. Key responsibilities include assisting the project team in preparing and administering contracts, facilitating communication with stakeholders such as MoPSE and NGOs, maintaining databases of education experts, and managing project documentation. The incumbent will also organize meetings, workshops, and training sessions, ensuring all necessary materials are prepared. Additional duties involve collecting information for reporting purposes, translating project documents, and traveling to project sites to provide on-site assistance. The Project Assistant will support the team in preparing progress reports and monitoring tools, and will perform other tasks as assigned to ensure the success of project activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) in education, social sciences, administration, or a related field. A minimum of three years of relevant professional experience in education, administrative support, or project implementation is required. The ideal candidate should demonstrate strong project management skills, proficiency in IT, and excellent communication abilities. A commitment to the values of the United Nations, including non-discrimination and respect for diversity, is essential. The ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multicultural environment is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a first-level university degree, which can be a Bachelor's degree or an equivalent qualification in fields such as education, social sciences, or administration. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of educational systems and project management within the context of UNESCO's mission.

Experience:
The position requires at least three years of relevant professional experience. This experience should ideally encompass roles in education, administrative support, or project implementation, providing the candidate with a solid foundation in managing educational initiatives and understanding the operational aspects of project work.

Languages:
Proficiency in both written and spoken English and Uzbek is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of Russian is considered a desirable qualification, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively within the diverse linguistic landscape of Uzbekistan.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position is non-staff and is set for a duration of one year. The role is open to external candidates, and UNESCO emphasizes its commitment to gender parity and workforce diversity. The organization offers a competitive salary package that includes benefits such as 30 days of annual leave, family allowances, medical insurance, and a pension plan. Candidates should be aware that the recruitment process may involve an assessment exercise and a competency-based interview. UNESCO maintains a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and encourages applications from individuals belonging to minority groups, indigenous groups, and persons with disabilities.