National UN Volunteer Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established by the United Nations General Assembly, is dedicated to advocating for the protection of children's rights and ensuring their basic needs are met. The organization aims to expand opportunities for children to reach their full potential, guided by the Convention on the Rights of the Child. UNICEF operates globally, focusing on mobilizing political will and resources to support developing countries in prioritizing children's needs. The organization is committed to protecting the most disadvantaged children, including victims of war, disasters, and extreme poverty, and works in emergencies to safeguard children's rights. UNICEF collaborates with various partners to promote gender equality and support the sustainable development goals, ensuring that the rights of women and girls are upheld in all its initiatives.

Job Overview:
The National UN Volunteer Specialist position at UNICEF in Sri Lanka is focused on supporting the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) and Early Childhood Education (ECE) sectors. The role involves working closely with key government partners, including the Ministry of Education and the National Secretariat for Early Childhood Development, to facilitate the implementation of ECCD/ECE programs. The specialist will assist in the planning, coordination, and execution of various educational initiatives, ensuring that the preschool curriculum is effectively implemented by 202

• This position requires strong administrative and logistical support to organize workshops, training sessions, and consultations with stakeholders, thereby contributing to the overall improvement of the ECCD/ECE sector in Sri Lanka.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer Specialist will undertake several key responsibilities, including:

• Supporting the planning, coordination, and implementation of ECCD/ECE programs, tracking progress, and ensuring timely delivery of outputs.
• Assisting in the finalization and printing of ECCD/ECE guidebooks and resource materials, ensuring quality assurance and monitoring timelines.
• Collaborating with the supply team to manage preschool supplies, coordinating procurement, and maintaining accurate supply records.
• Providing administrative and logistical support for ECCD/ECE workshops, consultations, and training sessions, including preparing event materials and documenting program activities.
• Supporting communication with stakeholders and assisting with any additional tasks assigned by the Education Section, while participating in regular team meetings and identifying innovative projects to contribute to the section's work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the National UN Volunteer Specialist position should possess strong organizational and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. They should have a solid understanding of early childhood education principles and practices, as well as experience in program coordination and implementation. Familiarity with supply chain management and logistical support in educational contexts is also essential. The ideal candidate should be adaptable, proactive, and capable of managing multiple tasks effectively.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in education, social sciences, or a related field is required for this position. A master's degree in a relevant discipline would be an advantage, as it demonstrates a higher level of expertise and understanding of the complexities involved in early childhood education and development.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2-3 years of relevant experience in program coordination, preferably within the education sector or with international organizations. Experience working with government agencies and understanding the educational landscape in Sri Lanka will be highly beneficial. The ability to navigate complex environments and work effectively with various stakeholders is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of UNICEF. Proficiency in Sinhala or Tamil would be considered an asset, as it would facilitate communication with local partners and stakeholders in Sri Lanka.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UN Volunteer assignment, and candidates will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The position is based in Colombo, which is the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, and offers a temperate climate with high humidity. The UN Volunteer will need to adhere to UNICEF's strict policies on conduct and child safeguarding principles. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history. The organization is committed to diversity and welcomes applications from qualified professionals regardless of gender, race, or other characteristics.