UN Volunteer - Education Project Support

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of every child. With a mission to ensure that all children have the opportunity to survive, develop, and reach their full potential, UNICEF operates in over 150 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on equity, aiming to address the needs of the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families. UNICEF's work is guided by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, emphasizing the importance of investing in health, education, and protection to foster sustainable growth and stability in nations.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer will play a crucial role in supporting the planning, implementation, monitoring, and coordination of education projects in Sierra Leone, particularly focusing on enhancing the quality of learning for early grade learners. This position involves collaborating with various stakeholders, including the Government of Sierra Leone, to implement the 'Delivering the Foundations of Learning for All' program. The volunteer will be responsible for developing literacy teaching and learning materials, facilitating teacher capacity building, and promoting digital learning tools. Additionally, the role includes supporting the development of socio-emotional learning modules and ensuring effective documentation and reporting of project progress. The volunteer will work under the guidance of the Chief Education and the supervision of the Education Specialist (GPE Coordinator).

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Literacy TLM Development Support: Coordinate writing workshops with international consultants and national writers, manage logistics, materials, and budget preparation, monitor the writing process, review draft materials for clarity and accessibility, and engage graphic design firms for TLM production.
• Teacher Capacity Building: Support the planning and delivery of national in-service teacher training, coordinate with stakeholders to implement and monitor the Community of Practice (COP), manage activity reports, and organize district review meetings.
• Digital Learning Support: Collaborate with government and partners to assess needs for digital learning tools, develop a work plan for creating digital resources, and oversee implementation to support structured pedagogy.
• Socio-Emotional Learning: Facilitate consultations on SEL, coordinate with partners to develop work plans, recruit technical expertise, and prepare for the implementation of SEL modules in national teacher training.
• Documentation and Reporting: Prepare technical briefs, presentations, and success stories, maintain activity trackers, draft summary updates for UNICEF and partners, and conduct program monitoring to manage records of progress.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. A proactive approach to problem-solving and adaptability to changing circumstances are essential. The volunteer should demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and ethical standards, with a respect for diversity and cultural sensitivity. Familiarity with educational systems and practices, particularly in the context of Sierra Leone, will be advantageous.

Educational Background:
A degree in education, social sciences, or a related field is required. Additional qualifications in project management, curriculum development, or teacher training will be considered an asset. Candidates should have a strong understanding of educational methodologies and practices, particularly in early childhood education.

Experience:
The position requires prior experience in education project implementation, preferably in a developing country context. Experience working with government agencies, NGOs, or international organizations in education-related roles is highly desirable. Familiarity with literacy and numeracy programs, teacher training, and capacity building initiatives will be beneficial.

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

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position based at UNICEF’s Sierra Leone Country Office in Freetown, with periodic travel to districts. 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 covered according to UN standards. The position is classified as a family duty station, and living conditions are generally good. The cost of living for expatriates can be fair to high, particularly for imported goods. The role is full-time, and candidates should be prepared for the challenges and rewards of working in a developing country context.