National Research Consultant

National Research Consultant

United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)

July 27, 2026September 1, 2026Tajikistan
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development to its staff. UNICEF prides itself on its inclusive culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, aiming to build careers while serving children and communities globally.

Job Overview:
The National Research Consultant position at UNICEF Tajikistan is a temporary consultancy role focused on providing research and analytical support under the GPE-funded Tech4Ed Initiative. The consultant will work closely with the Lead International Consultant to generate high-quality analytical evidence in two key areas: developing an investment case and cost model for a Cluster School Approach (CSA) to school digitalization, and analyzing innovative connectivity solutions for internet and intranet access in Tajikistan's schools. This role requires a strong background in education technology and research, as well as the ability to coordinate with various stakeholders, including government institutions and telecommunication providers. The consultant will be expected to deliver specific outputs within a defined timeframe, contributing to the overall goals of the Tech4Ed Initiative.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for conducting comprehensive research and analysis in the areas of digital learning and connectivity solutions. Key duties include:
  • Collaborating with the Lead International Consultant to develop a detailed investment case and cost model for the CSA approach to school digitalization.
  • Conducting an in-depth analysis of existing connectivity solutions, including mobile and satellite technologies, to assess their applicability in Tajikistan's educational context.
  • Engaging with stakeholders, including government agencies and telecom providers, to gather insights and data necessary for the research.
  • Preparing analytical reports that summarize findings and provide actionable recommendations based on the research conducted.
  • Ensuring that all deliverables are completed on time and meet the quality standards set by UNICEF and the GPE.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong set of qualifications, including:
  • Advanced degree (Masters or higher) in relevant fields such as Social Studies, Statistics, Education Technology, ICT, Computer Science, or Telecommunications Development Studies.
  • A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in areas such as digital learning, EdTech, education research, and connectivity initiatives.
  • Proven experience in conducting research, data analysis, and preparing analytical reports.
  • Familiarity with the education sector and digital transformation priorities in Tajikistan is essential.
  • Strong analytical, research, and report-writing skills are required, along with proficiency in data analysis tools.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced degree (Masters or higher) in fields related to social studies, statistics, education technology, information and communication technology, computer science, telecommunications development studies, or other related disciplines. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of digital learning and connectivity in the educational context.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience. This experience should encompass work in digital learning, EdTech, education research, and connectivity initiatives. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in conducting research, data analysis, and policy reviews, as well as preparing analytical reports. Experience working with government institutions, telecommunication service providers, development partners, and international organizations is essential, along with a background in supporting education digitalization efforts.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Tajik is mandatory for this position, as effective communication is critical for the role. Additionally, a working knowledge of Russian is required, which will facilitate interactions with various stakeholders in the region. Proficiency in these languages will enhance the consultant's ability to conduct research and engage with diverse groups effectively.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy role has a contract duration of 6.9 months and is primarily remote, with potential travel required for stakeholder engagement and data collection. UNICEF emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization also provides reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. UNICEF maintains a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with its aims and objectives, ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all employees.
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