UN Volunteer - Education Programme

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of children worldwide. With a mission to ensure that every child has the opportunity to survive, develop, and thrive, UNICEF operates in over 150 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to advocate for children's rights and provide essential services. The organization focuses on equity, ensuring that the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families receive the support they need. UNICEF's work is guided by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, emphasizing the importance of addressing inequity to foster sustainable growth and stability in nations.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer position within UNICEF Sierra Leone's Education Programme is designed to support the implementation of initiatives aimed at improving access to quality education for disadvantaged children and adolescents. This role will focus on the Improved Access pillar of the Education Programme, particularly in the areas of inclusive education and Non-Formal Education (NFE). The UN Volunteer will assist in executing the Inclusive Education Strategy and advocacy plan developed by UNICEF, which aligns with the Government's Radical Inclusion policy. The position requires active participation in planning, monitoring, and evaluating education projects, with a strong emphasis on system strengthening and enhancing educational quality. The UN Volunteer will engage with various stakeholders, including government ministries, civil society organizations, and organizations representing persons with disabilities, to ensure effective coordination and implementation of inclusive education initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Supporting inclusive education coordination and stakeholder engagement by documenting meetings, following up on action points, and ensuring the involvement of key stakeholders.
• Representing UNICEF in stakeholder meetings related to inclusive education and assisting in the implementation of the Inclusive Education Strategy and Communication Strategy.
• Coordinating curriculum adaptation efforts to ensure teaching materials are inclusive and accessible, facilitating consultations with relevant organizations and institutions.
• Supporting in-service teacher training on inclusive education and collaborating with teacher training institutions to integrate inclusive education into pre-service curricula.
• Assisting in the early identification of disabilities and strengthening referral systems, including improving data collection related to disability in education.
• Conducting situation analyses of Non-Formal Education services and supporting the design of accelerated education programs for marginalized girls.
• Preparing technical briefs, presentations, and reports to document progress and inform stakeholders about inclusive education and NFE initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position should possess strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. A commitment to children's rights and equity is essential, along with adaptability and flexibility in a dynamic work environment. The ideal candidate should demonstrate professionalism, respect for diversity, and a commitment to continuous learning. Proficiency in project management and monitoring and evaluation processes is highly desirable, as well as experience in education or related fields.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in education, social sciences, or a related field is required for this position. Advanced degrees or specialized training in inclusive education, child rights, or educational policy would be advantageous. Candidates should have a solid understanding of educational systems and policies, particularly in the context of developing countries.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience in education, social work, or a related field. Experience working with marginalized communities, particularly in the context of inclusive education or Non-Formal Education, is highly valued. Familiarity with UNICEF's mission and objectives, as well as experience in project management and stakeholder engagement, will be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of UNICEF in Sierra Leone. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Sierra Leone would be an asset, as it can facilitate communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a UN Volunteer position based in Freetown, Sierra Leone, classified as a family duty station. The UN Volunteer will be responsible for covering their own accommodation and living expenses while in Freetown. Travel costs incurred during official duties will be reimbursed according to UN standards. The position may require periodic travel to districts, and the living conditions in Freetown are generally good, with access to essential services and amenities. The cost of living can be high for expatriates, particularly for imported goods, but there are good local supermarkets and restaurants available. The position is full-time, and candidates should be prepared for a tropical climate with a rainy season.