Consultant for National Digital Divide Report

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established in 197

• Its mission is to promote economic and social development in the Arab region through regional cooperation and integration. ESCWA works with member states to formulate policies and strategies that address the challenges facing the region, including economic growth, social justice, and sustainable development. The organization operates in 22 member countries and employs a diverse workforce of professionals dedicated to improving the lives of people in the Arab region. ESCWA's initiatives focus on various sectors, including technology, environment, and social development, aiming to enhance the quality of life and promote inclusive growth across the region.

Job Overview:
The consultant will be responsible for developing a comprehensive national digital divide report for Jordan, focusing on key areas such as access, use, digital skills, user experience, and cost. This role is crucial in addressing the digital divide, which affects participation in the digital economy and access to essential services. The consultant will analyze existing policies, strategies, and data related to ICT and digital inclusion, while also identifying gaps and proposing solutions to enhance digital access for marginalized communities. The report will serve as a foundational document to guide national efforts in bridging the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to digital resources for all citizens. The consultant will work closely with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship (MoDEE) and ESCWA teams to ensure alignment with national strategies and international best practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties include:

• Reviewing current policies, strategies, and initiatives related to ICT and digital inclusion in Jordan.
• Analyzing international best practices in digital divide analysis.
• Assessing available national data and identifying gaps in information.
• Conducting interviews and meetings with key national stakeholders to gather insights and feedback.
• Drafting the national digital divide report based on comprehensive analysis and stakeholder input.
• Presenting the draft report to national entities and incorporating feedback into the final document.
• Contributing to workshops and discussions to capture key comments and insights.
• Ensuring that gender considerations and youth perspectives are integrated into the research and reporting process.
• Maintaining high standards of academic integrity and avoiding plagiarism in the report.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in ICT, technology, engineering, computer science, or a related field. A Ph.D. is preferred. Additionally, candidates should have at least 5 years of experience in digital technologies, with a strong background in research and analysis. Experience in management and planning is also required, along with a proven track record of delivering research papers and reports. Candidates must submit a copy of their educational qualifications as part of the application process, as incomplete applications will not be considered.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as ICT, technology, engineering, or computer science. A Ph.D. is highly desirable, indicating a strong academic background and expertise in the subject matter. Candidates must provide proof of their educational qualifications, as this is a critical requirement for the application process.

Experience:
The consultant should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in the field of digital technologies, particularly in research and analysis. Previous experience in management and planning is essential, as the consultant will need to coordinate with various stakeholders and manage the reporting process effectively. Experience in delivering research papers and reports is also desirable, showcasing the candidate's ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in both written and spoken English and Arabic is mandatory for this position, as these are the working languages of ESCWA. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in all four language skills: speaking, reading, writing, and understanding. Knowledge of French is considered an asset, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both English and Arabic to engage with diverse stakeholders and produce high-quality reports.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the consultancy is 16 weeks, and the work location is remote. The consultant will be required to submit a comprehensive report that meets specific formatting and content guidelines, including a minimum of 30 pages and an executive summary. The report must be submitted in MS-Word format, and all deliverables will be subject to plagiarism checks. The consultant must ensure that the content is original and properly referenced, with no more than 20% of the text consisting of previously published material. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates should be aware that their bank account information is not required.