Consultant - Teacher Development for Competency-Based Education and Peace Education

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, is a specialized agency of the United Nations that aims to promote world peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. Established in 1945, UNESCO has a mission to contribute to the building of peace, the eradication of poverty, sustainable development, and intercultural dialogue through education, the sciences, culture, communication, and information. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a diverse workforce of more than 2,000 employees. UNESCO's core values include commitment to the organization, integrity, respect for diversity, and professionalism, which guide its work across various sectors, including education, natural sciences, social and human sciences, culture, and communication and information.

Job Overview:
The position of Consultant for Teacher Development focuses on advancing teacher development and competency-based education across South Asia, particularly in Sri Lanka, Himachal Pradesh (India), and Bhutan. The consultant will work closely with the UNESCO Regional Office in South Asia to implement strategies that align with the Sustainable Development Goal 4 on Quality Education. This role involves supporting competency-based education reforms, monitoring UNESCO's activities in response to emergencies, and promoting education for peace and sustainable development. The consultant will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of various educational projects, coordinating with national and international experts, and ensuring effective reporting and accountability of UNESCO's education initiatives in the region. The consultant will also engage in developing structured teacher training modules and facilitating pilot cycles to enhance teacher capacities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including:

• Overseeing the implementation of competency-based education activities in Himachal Pradesh, coordinating with national and international experts to review policies and curricula, and developing a coherent framework for competency progression.
• Supporting the development of teacher training modules and managing school-based pilot cycles, including establishing monitoring mechanisms and producing evaluation reports.
• Finalizing the second year of the project addressing students' learning gaps in Bhutan, contributing to report development and maintaining project documentation.
• Supporting the implementation of the 2023 UNESCO Recommendation on Education for Peace, Human Rights, and Sustainable Development by developing project proposals and coordinating efforts with various partners.
• Coordinating UNESCO's emergency response efforts in Sri Lanka following cyclone Ditwah, ensuring safe learning environments for affected learners and teachers.
• Updating the UNINFO system entries for education activities in India and supporting regular reporting to UNCT focal points in the region.
• Managing administrative tasks, including preparing mission reports and tracking budgets, while ensuring effective communication and collaboration with stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (equivalent to a Master's) in education or social sciences. Additionally, a minimum of four years of relevant professional experience in education program management is required, with at least two years at the international level. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of education and socio-economic systems in developing countries, particularly in South Asia, and have a good understanding of Global Citizenship Education and Teacher Development. Familiarity with UN system mechanics, excellent report drafting skills, and strong coordination and negotiation abilities are essential. Candidates should also exhibit excellent presentation skills and the ability to communicate effectively in a multicultural environment, alongside strong IT and results-based management skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, which is equivalent to a Master's degree, in fields related to education or social sciences. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of educational systems and the socio-economic factors that influence them, particularly in the context of developing countries.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of relevant professional experience in education program management. This experience should include at least two years at the international level, which is essential for understanding the global context of educational initiatives and the challenges faced in implementing them effectively. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing educational projects and working with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
A strong command of English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. This proficiency is essential for effective communication, report writing, and stakeholder engagement. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages relevant to the South Asian context may be considered an asset, enhancing the consultant's ability to engage with local partners and communities.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for five months, with a possibility of extension. The consultant will be responsible for their own logistics, including office space, administrative support, and travel arrangements. The costs associated with these logistics will be included in the lump sum proposal submitted by the consultant. The consultant must adhere to the Harvard referencing style for all documentation and ensure compliance with UNESCO's standards. Regular feedback and revisions will be expected throughout the consultancy, and the consultant will be required to integrate a gender perspective in all activities. The selection process will involve an online application, potential video interviews, and assessments, with a focus on securing the highest standards of efficiency and integrity in the recruitment process.