Education Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
VSO 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 simply providing aid. The organization operates under the Volunteering for Development (VfD) approach, which prioritizes the most marginalized communities. This approach is grounded in years of evidence and learning, focusing on developing active citizens who can drive local community-led change and achieve sustainable development goals long after a project or grant concludes. VSO's commitment to fostering change through volunteerism has made it a significant player in the global effort to alleviate poverty and promote equality.

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 entails training and supporting District Education Officers, Primary Education Advisors (PEAs), teachers, and School Managers to successfully integrate tablet-based learning into their teaching practices and school systems. The Education Specialist will play a crucial role in enhancing the educational landscape by ensuring that modern technology is effectively utilized to improve learning outcomes. 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 educational development in challenging environments.

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

• Providing technical assistance to the Ministry of Education to enhance the implementation of the BeFIT programme.
• Conducting training sessions for District Education Officers, PEAs, teachers, and School Managers on the effective use of tablet-based learning tools.
• Supporting the development of training materials and resources that align with the educational goals of the BeFIT programme.
• Monitoring and evaluating the integration of technology in teaching practices and providing feedback for continuous improvement.
• Collaborating with local education stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of the programme and its alignment with national education policies.
• Facilitating workshops and seminars to promote best practices in education and technology integration.
• Engaging with community members to raise awareness about the benefits of technology in education and to foster community support for the programme.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess relevant experience in training and mentoring primary school teachers, including both in-service and student teachers. Additionally, applicants should have a valid motorcycle riding license obtained within the last two years, as this role may require travel to various educational sites. The ideal candidate will also demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups of people.

Educational Background:
A degree in education or a related field is required for this position. Candidates with additional qualifications in educational technology or curriculum development will be viewed favorably. Continuous professional development in teaching methodologies and educational leadership is also advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience in training and mentoring primary school teachers. Experience in implementing educational programmes, particularly those that incorporate technology, is highly desirable. Candidates should also have a proven track record of working in challenging educational environments and demonstrating resilience and adaptability.

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 a full-time role, although specific details regarding salary and contract length have not been specified. VSO emphasizes equal opportunities and values a diverse workforce, promoting inclusivity in its recruitment process. Volunteers will receive an allowance paid in local currency to cover reasonable living expenses, although it may not be sufficient to send money home. Accommodation provided may vary and is typically 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.