UNESCO Consultant - Inclusive Education

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, is a specialized agency of the United Nations aimed at promoting 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 approximately 2,000 employees. Its core values include commitment to the organization, integrity, respect for diversity, and professionalism, which guide its work in various fields including education, science, culture, and communication.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position at UNESCO focuses on providing specialized technical expertise in disability inclusion to support the implementation of inclusive education policies in Fiji. The consultant will engage in a series of strategic tasks aimed at facilitating multi-stakeholder consultations, designing a comprehensive study framework, and executing research that informs the operationalization of policies related to communication support and assistive technologies for learners with disabilities. The overarching goal is to ensure that all learners, regardless of their disabilities, have equitable access to quality education. This role requires a deep understanding of the challenges faced by students with disabilities in Fiji, particularly in rural and resource-constrained settings, and the ability to develop actionable recommendations that align with national and international commitments to inclusive education.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake three main tasks: 1) Plan, facilitate, and report on the findings of the Disability Inclusion Veivosaki, which involves reviewing relevant policies and frameworks, preparing facilitation plans, and documenting stakeholder inputs to synthesize key issues and recommendations. 2) Design the 'From Policy to Action Study' framework based on the findings from the Veivosaki, including defining study objectives, methodology, and ethical considerations, and presenting this framework for validation to stakeholders. 3) Execute the research as per the validated framework, collecting and analyzing data, developing the study content, and preparing a draft report that presents findings and recommendations for final validation. The consultant will also ensure that all deliverables are aligned with the objectives of the multi-stakeholder consultations and contribute to the overall goal of enhancing inclusive education in Fiji.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in Education, Disability Studies, Social Policy, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of 10 years of experience in inclusive education, disability rights, or strengthening education systems is required. Proven expertise in facilitating multi-stakeholder consultations and participatory research is essential, along with a strong knowledge of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and inclusive education frameworks. Excellent communication, facilitation, and report-writing skills are mandatory, and experience working in Pacific contexts is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in Education, Disability Studies, Social Policy, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background should provide the candidate with a solid foundation in the principles of inclusive education and disability rights, equipping them with the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to effectively contribute to the consultancy's objectives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in the fields of inclusive education, disability rights, or education systems strengthening. Candidates should have a proven track record of facilitating multi-stakeholder consultations and conducting participatory research. Experience in working with diverse groups, particularly in the context of disability inclusion, is crucial. Familiarity with the specific challenges and opportunities present in Pacific contexts will be considered a significant advantage.

Languages:
While the primary language for this consultancy is English, proficiency in additional languages relevant to the local context may be beneficial. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication skills in English, both written and verbal, as effective communication with stakeholders is a key component of the role.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is a remote position with a contract duration of three months, starting in August 2026 and ending in November 202

• The role is open to both local and external candidates. The consultant will report to the UNESCO Pacific Regional Office and will work closely with the Ministry of Education, the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), and other relevant stakeholders. Payment for deliverables will be contingent upon thorough review and approval by UNESCO and its partners. The consultancy emphasizes the importance of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence, and integrity, and encourages individuals from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities, to apply.