Education Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
VSO (Voluntary Service Overseas) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting volunteering as a powerful and practical means to combat poverty and inequality. Established with the mission to create lasting change through volunteering, VSO believes in empowering individuals in some of the world's poorest and most fragile regions rather than merely providing aid. The organization operates on the principle that people in developing countries possess the desire, power, courage, and determination to shape their own futures. Through its Volunteering for Development (VfD) approach, VSO prioritizes the most marginalized individuals, fostering active citizenship that drives local community-led change and contributes to sustainable development goals long after projects conclude. VSO has a global presence, working in various countries to implement its mission and support local communities.

Job Overview:
The Education Specialist role is designed to provide technical support and capacity building to the Ministry of Education at various levels, including district, zonal, and school levels, specifically for the effective implementation of the BeFIT programme. This position is crucial in training and supporting District Education Officers, Primary Education Advisors (PEAs), teachers, and School Managers to seamlessly integrate Tablet-based learning into their teaching practices and school systems. The Education Specialist will play a pivotal role in enhancing educational outcomes by ensuring that educators are well-equipped to utilize technology in their classrooms, thereby improving the learning experience for students. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in education, particularly in training and mentoring primary school teachers, and will be expected to demonstrate a commitment to fostering an inclusive and effective learning environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Education Specialist will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to:

• Providing technical support to the Ministry of Education in the implementation of the BeFIT programme.
• Conducting training sessions for District Education Officers, PEAs, teachers, and School Managers on the integration of Tablet-based learning into educational practices.
• Developing training materials and resources that align with the BeFIT programme objectives.
• Monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of training sessions and the overall implementation of the programme.
• Collaborating with local education stakeholders to ensure the successful adoption of technology in schools.
• Offering ongoing support and mentorship to educators to enhance their teaching methodologies.
• Collecting and analyzing data to assess the impact of the BeFIT programme on student learning outcomes.
• Engaging with community members to promote the benefits of technology in education and gather feedback for continuous improvement.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess relevant qualifications that demonstrate their capability to fulfill the role of Education Specialist. This includes a strong background in education, particularly in training and mentoring primary school teachers. Additionally, candidates should have a valid motorcycle riding license obtained within the last two years, as the role may require travel to various educational institutions. The ideal applicant should also exhibit competencies such as open-mindedness, resilience, adaptability, and the ability to facilitate positive change and build sustainable working relationships.

Educational Background:
A degree in education or a related field is required for this position. Candidates with advanced degrees or specialized training in educational technology or teacher training will be given preference. The educational background should reflect a strong understanding of pedagogical practices and the integration of technology in education.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience in training and mentoring primary school teachers, which can include both in-service and student teachers. Experience in implementing educational programs or initiatives, particularly those involving technology, will be highly advantageous. Candidates should also have practical experience in working within educational settings, demonstrating their ability to engage effectively with educators and stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of instruction and communication within the organization. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Malawi would be considered an asset, as it would facilitate better communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time, and while specific salary details are not provided, volunteers will receive an allowance paid in local currency to cover reasonable living expenses in the country. It is important to note that the allowance may not be sufficient to send money home. Accommodation provided will be basic, reflecting the organization's commitment to working with some of the poorest communities in the world. VSO reserves the right to close the job posting early if a sufficient number of applications are received, and they emphasize a fair and transparent recruitment process, ensuring no fees are charged during the application process.