Consultant for AI Readiness Assessment

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was established in 1945 with the mission to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. UNESCO operates in over 190 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. The organization focuses on fostering educational opportunities, promoting cultural diversity, and advancing scientific research and innovation. Its core values include commitment to the organization, integrity, respect for diversity, and professionalism, which guide its efforts in addressing global challenges and promoting sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The consultant will oversee the implementation of the Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) in Suriname, which is part of UNESCO's initiative to operationalize the Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence. This position involves leading the preparation of a policy-oriented country report that draws from RAM results and multi-stakeholder consultations. The report aims to inform a comprehensive national AI strategy and provide an evidence-based framework for the ethical governance of AI. The consultant will work closely with national and regional stakeholders, including government ministries, academia, civil society, and the private sector, to assess the current state of AI development and readiness in Suriname. The role requires a deep understanding of the ethical, legal, social, and governance issues surrounding AI, as well as the ability to facilitate discussions and gather insights from various stakeholders to shape national policies and strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a range of duties including:

• Developing a timeline for the implementation of the RAM in coordination with UNESCO.
• Mapping key stakeholders for data collection purposes.
• Facilitating work with a National Steering Committee led by the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Entrepreneurship and Technological Innovation (EZOTI).
• Conducting the RAM questionnaire to assess the potential for AI development and identify regulatory and institutional gaps.
• Coordinating national consultations and focus groups to discuss the results of the readiness assessment and identify policy priorities.
• Preparing a diagnostic report based on the RAM outcomes.
• Organizing a mid-term update call with UNESCO and government counterparts.
• Conducting a validation workshop to present the draft country report and gather feedback.
• Drafting the final policy-oriented country report with recommendations for ethical governance of AI. 1
• Supporting the launch of the report and presenting its findings to stakeholders. 1
• Participating in high-level events organized by UNESCO to showcase project outcomes. 1
• Ensuring overall coordination with relevant stakeholders throughout the RAM process.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (PhD or a specialized Master’s) in fields related to the governance of artificial intelligence, ethical implications of AI, or law enforcement and technology. A minimum of 7 years of professional or research experience in the technology industry, particularly in the ethical, legal, social, and governance issues of AI, is required. Experience with government agencies in the implementing country is a plus. Proven experience in conducting research and analysis, implementing programs/projects on AI governance, and producing policy-oriented reports is essential. A strong understanding of the Caribbean development framework and the dynamics of AI governance in the region is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, preferably a PhD or a specialized Master’s degree, in relevant fields such as governance of artificial intelligence, ethical and social implications of AI, law enforcement and technology, or other related disciplines. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of AI governance and the ethical considerations involved in its implementation.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of professional or research experience in the technology sector, specifically focusing on the ethical, legal, social, and governance issues surrounding artificial intelligence and related digital technologies. Candidates should have experience working at both national and international levels, with a strong emphasis on conducting research, analysis, and implementing programs related to AI governance. Familiarity with the relevant government agencies in Suriname and experience in producing policy-oriented reports are highly desirable.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English and Dutch is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of another local Caribbean language is considered a valuable asset, as it may enhance communication with local stakeholders and facilitate broader engagement in the project.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is non-staff and has a contract duration ranging from 1 to 6 months. The recruitment is open to external candidates, and the application process requires candidates to submit an up-to-date CV, a methodological approach for the assignment, and a financial proposal. The evaluation of candidates will be based on the criteria outlined in the vacancy notice, and selected candidates may be subject to reference checks. UNESCO emphasizes its commitment to diversity and encourages applications from under-represented groups, including individuals from minority and indigenous backgrounds.