National Project Officer (Digital Transformation)

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. With a presence in over 190 countries, UNESCO aims to build peace in the minds of men and women through education, science, culture, and communication. The organization operates numerous programs and initiatives worldwide, focusing on sustainable development, education for all, and the preservation of cultural heritage. UNESCO is committed to fostering inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all, aligning its efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The National Project Officer (Digital Transformation) will play a crucial role in leading the programming, execution, monitoring, and reporting of the UNESCO-led component of the Joint Programme on Digital Transformation for Education in Jamaica. This position is pivotal in ensuring the successful implementation of the project, which aims to modernize and integrate the Education Management Information System (EMIS) in Jamaica. The officer will work closely with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education and Youth, to enhance data governance and interoperability of digital systems, thereby improving teacher management and engagement. The role requires a strategic approach to project management, ensuring that activities are aligned with the overall objectives of the Joint Programme and contribute to the advancement of digitalization in the education sector. The officer will also be responsible for coordinating stakeholder consultations, managing project logistics and financial resources, and ensuring effective communication and advocacy strategies are implemented throughout the project lifecycle.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Project Officer will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including:

• Coordinating the organization and implementation of all actions and activities related to the UNESCO-led component of the Joint Programme, ensuring timely execution and resource allocation.
• Planning and conducting stakeholder consultations and meetings, facilitating dialogue, and integrating feedback into project planning.
• Monitoring and managing the project budget, ensuring compliance with financial policies, and preparing financial reports.
• Developing and implementing monitoring and evaluation frameworks to assess project performance and disseminate findings.
• Collecting and producing reports and documents as required, including donor reports, and maintaining internal databases.
• Providing support for communication and advocacy strategies, ensuring effective dissemination of project outcomes and achievements.
• Communicating successes and developments to government stakeholders and donor partners, identifying opportunities for collaboration.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) from an accredited institution, preferably in Education, Information Technology, or a closely related field. Additionally, candidates should have at least 4 years of relevant work experience in coordinating programs and projects, including experience in planning, budgeting, implementation, monitoring, and reporting processes of development programs. Experience in managing software development projects and stakeholder engagement is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate professional technical knowledge in international development and project management, along with excellent coordination and organizational skills.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) is required for this position, ideally in fields related to Education, Information Technology, or similar disciplines. Additional training in project management or certification in change management methodologies would be advantageous, as would an educational background in Education Policy and Management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 4 years of relevant work experience in program and project coordination, particularly in the context of development initiatives. Candidates should have a proven track record in planning, budgeting, implementation, monitoring, and reporting processes. Experience in managing software development projects and engaging with stakeholders throughout project lifecycles is essential. Familiarity with UN Joint Programs will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 1 year, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of funds and satisfactory performance. This position is open to both internal and external candidates, but only nationals of Jamaica may apply. The role is classified under the NO-C grade, and the approximate annual starting salary is 8,640,538 JMD. UNESCO offers a range of benefits, including 30 days of annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan. The selection process may include pre-recorded video interviews, written assessments, and reference checks. Candidates are encouraged to apply online by the specified deadline, and all applications will be treated with confidentiality.