Associate National Project Officer - Education

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO Office in Uzbekistan is dedicated to advancing the quality, inclusiveness, and relevance of education in Uzbekistan. The organization is focused on addressing the significant reforms needed in the education sector to improve teaching and learning quality. Established to promote peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, science, and culture, UNESCO operates in multiple countries worldwide, with a mission to foster educational opportunities for all. The office in Uzbekistan is particularly focused on enhancing teacher capacity and professional development, recognizing the challenges posed by outdated pedagogical approaches. The organization employs a diverse team of professionals committed to improving educational outcomes and ensuring that education systems are equipped to meet modern demands.

Job Overview:
The Associate National Project Officer will play a crucial role in the implementation of the Teacher Education programme led by UNESCO in Uzbekistan. This programme aims to strengthen teacher training and enhance the quality of education by addressing gaps in pre-service and in-service teacher training, as well as promoting competency-based education (CBE). The officer will be responsible for providing technical expertise, coordinating with national and international partners, and ensuring that the programme's objectives align with the broader education reform initiatives of the government. The position requires a proactive approach to support the design and implementation of activities that reform teacher education and establish systems for continuous professional development. The officer will also contribute to the development of a practicum model that links theory and practice in teacher education, thereby enhancing the overall quality of education in Uzbekistan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including:

• Providing technical inputs for the preparation and implementation of detailed work plans to ensure timely delivery of project activities in accordance with UNESCO's Education Programme.
• Supporting the review and revision of teacher education curricula and programmes, including the development of new courses that promote learner-centered and competency-based approaches.
• Coordinating day-to-day programme activities to ensure alignment with agreed-upon work plans and timelines.
• Designing and implementing activities aimed at reforming pre-service and teacher education, establishing systems for continuous professional development aligned with CBE principles.
• Contributing to the development of a CBE-aligned practicum model that strengthens the connection between theory and practice in teacher education.
• Building institutional capacity of pre-service teacher training centres and professional development centers to deliver quality learning for educators.
• Maintaining communication with local implementing partners to support the quality and timely delivery of project activities.
• Ensuring that all initiatives integrate UNESCO's priorities on quality, equity, inclusion, and gender equality.
• Facilitating communication and collaboration between UNESCO, line ministries, and other stakeholders involved in the Education Programme. 1
• Providing technical inputs for monitoring and evaluation frameworks to assess programme progress and impact, and assisting in the analysis of performance data to inform future interventions. 1
• Participating in organizing workshops and training sessions for government counterparts and education stakeholders, and contributing to the development of knowledge products to sustain and expand the impact of UNESCO’s education interventions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in education, social sciences, international relations, ICT, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) may be accepted if accompanied by at least four years of additional relevant experience. Candidates should demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills, a good understanding of results-based and budget management tools, and the ability to work under pressure while managing heavy workloads. Strong IT skills, analytical and problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to work effectively in a multicultural environment are essential. Candidates should also be able to engage and form effective working relationships with counterparts and colleagues, and be willing to work in complex, rural, and remote areas.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in fields such as education, social sciences, international relations, or ICT. A Bachelor's degree may be acceptable if the candidate has substantial relevant experience. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of educational systems and the necessary reforms to improve teacher training and educational outcomes.

Experience:
A minimum of four years of relevant professional experience in the field of general education is required. Candidates should have experience in pre-service and in-service teacher training, as well as familiarity with the administrative procedures of UN organizations, preferably UNESCO. This experience is vital for effectively contributing to the implementation of the Teacher Education programme and ensuring alignment with national education reforms.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English and Uzbek languages (both written and oral) is mandatory for this position. Additionally, good knowledge of Russian is considered desirable, as it may facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders and enhance collaboration within the region.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration is set for 12 months, including a 3-month probation period, with the possibility of extension based on satisfactory performance and availability of funds. The position is open to external candidates and requires a commitment to UNESCO's core values, including integrity, respect for diversity, and professionalism. The organization emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and encourages applications from individuals from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities. All applications will be treated confidentially, and candidates will be informed of the outcome of their application in due course. The statutory retirement age at UNESCO is 65 years, and the organization does not charge any fees during the hiring process.