UN Volunteer - Education Programme Support

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established by the United Nations General Assembly, is dedicated to advocating for the protection of children's rights and ensuring that their basic needs are met. With a mission to expand opportunities for children to reach their full potential, UNICEF has been operational in Lao PDR for over 45 years, making it one of the longest-serving international organizations in the country. The organization plays a crucial role in supporting the government, advocating for reforms, and leading coordination efforts to scale up results in various sectors, particularly education. UNICEF operates in multiple countries worldwide, focusing on transformational change to achieve sustainable coverage at scale.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer (UNV) position is designed to support the planning and implementation of UNICEF Lao PDR’s Education Programme, which aims to address significant challenges in the education sector, particularly in light of the economic hardships faced by the country. The role involves enhancing the capacity of the government and implementing partners to improve learning outcomes and skills development for children and adolescents. The UNV will engage with children, adolescents, parents, and communities to foster empowerment and participation in educational initiatives. The position requires close collaboration with the Education team and other sections of UNICEF, as well as coordination with government stakeholders and various partners, including NGOs and civil society organizations. The UNV will contribute to the overall objectives of the Country Programme 2022-2026, which seeks to ensure that more children, especially the most disadvantaged, are better prepared for school and achieve improved learning outcomes by 2026.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UNV will undertake several key tasks, including:

• Supporting communication efforts by documenting the progress and impact of the Education Programme’s interventions for donor reporting, fundraising, and advocacy purposes.
• Contributing to Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) and knowledge management in education, assisting with education research, studies, and evaluations to improve government and UNICEF’s in-house capacity.
• Enhancing UNICEF’s capacity to contribute to improved coordination and effectiveness of the Education Sector Working Group (ESWG) mechanism, including Early Childhood Education and Basic Education focal groups.
• Assisting with other programme-related tasks, such as inputs to annual reviews, development of funding proposals, and preparation for donor visits and annual reports. The UNV will also be involved in field missions to monitor and facilitate UNICEF-supported activities in various provinces, ensuring that the programme is effectively implemented and aligned with its objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong communication skills, adaptability, and a commitment to ethical standards and integrity. They should demonstrate professionalism, respect for diversity, and the ability to work collaboratively in teams. The role requires creativity, planning and organizing skills, and a willingness to share knowledge and engage in continuous learning. The UNV should be able to manage their time effectively and demonstrate accountability in their work.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position, ideally in fields related to education, social sciences, or international development. Candidates should have a solid understanding of educational policies and practices, particularly in the context of developing countries. A degree in education, public policy, or a related field is preferred, along with knowledge of UNICEF’s mission and objectives.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have prior experience in education programming, project management, or related fields. Experience working with government agencies, NGOs, or international organizations in the education sector is highly desirable. Familiarity with monitoring and evaluation processes, as well as knowledge of the Lao education system, will be advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate a capacity for teamwork and collaboration, as well as the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of UNICEF. Knowledge of Lao or other local languages is considered an asset, as it can facilitate communication with local communities and stakeholders. Proficiency in additional languages may enhance the candidate's profile, particularly in a multicultural environment.

Additional Notes:
The UNV position is based in Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, and involves field missions to support programme implementation. The assignment is situated within a multi-cultural working environment with approximately 70 staff members. The role is classified as a family duty station, and the living conditions are considered safe. The UNICEF office provides support for work-related travel and offers a range of benefits, including a Volunteer Living Allowance, family allowance, and health and life insurance. The UNV is required to complete the B-SAFE training and submit the certificate as part of the appointment process. The office is located near the Mekong River, with various commuting options available, and there are multiple accommodation choices in the area.