National Project Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNESCO, which stands for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Established in 1945, UNESCO aims to promote peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a mission to build peace through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. UNESCO is committed to fostering sustainable development and promoting human rights, gender equality, and cultural diversity. The organization employs thousands of staff members worldwide, working collaboratively with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The National Project Officer position is a critical role within UNESCO's initiative to enhance social cohesion and resilience in Somalia through the integration of peace-centered pedagogy into early childhood Quranic education. The officer will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day implementation of the project, ensuring that it aligns with UNESCO's objectives and the specific goals set forth in the project document. This includes managing project activities, monitoring progress, and ensuring quality control in collaboration with the Project Manager. The officer will also play a vital role in liaising with various stakeholders, including government entities, community leaders, and development partners, to foster a collaborative environment that supports the project's objectives. The position requires a deep understanding of the educational landscape in Somalia, particularly in the context of religious education, and the ability to navigate complex cultural dynamics to promote effective learning environments for children.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Project Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Managing the project on behalf of UNESCO, ensuring that all activities are executed in accordance with the project objectives and expected outputs.
• Supporting the Project Manager in the overall management of the project, including regular updates to the project workplan and procurement processes.
• Identifying and coordinating with suitable project implementation partners and monitoring the quality of services provided.
• Overseeing the financial management of the project, including budget revisions and financial reporting.
• Conducting regular monitoring and evaluation of project activities and preparing reports for stakeholders.
• Facilitating the dissemination of project results and knowledge through workshops, webinars, and publications.
• Providing policy advice and technical assistance to stakeholders in Somalia, ensuring alignment with government policies and international frameworks.
• Mobilizing resources and expertise from UNESCO entities to support project implementation.
• Ensuring effective communication and collaboration among project team members and external partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in education, social sciences, peace studies, or closely related fields. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible professional experience in technical assistance and project management within the education sector. Experience in supporting educational reforms and development agendas is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate excellent project management skills, the ability to work in multicultural environments, and a commitment to gender-sensitive practices.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in relevant fields such as education, social sciences, or peace studies. Specialization in education and/or peacebuilding is considered a desirable qualification, enhancing the candidate's ability to contribute effectively to the project's objectives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience, particularly in technical assistance and project management within the education sector. Candidates should have a proven track record of supporting educational reforms and development initiatives, ideally within the context of Somalia or the Horn of Africa. Experience working with UN agencies or international organizations is highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Somali is mandatory for this position, as effective communication with local stakeholders and international partners is crucial. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in enhancing communication with diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is initially set for 6 months, with the possibility of extension based on satisfactory performance and the availability of project funding. The role is classified at the SC9 level, indicating a seniority level that requires significant expertise and experience. The position is full-time and is open to external candidates. UNESCO emphasizes a commitment to diversity and encourages applications from individuals belonging to minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities. The organization adheres to a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and ensures confidentiality in the hiring process.