Education Programme Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent humanitarian organization that was established in 193

• Its mission is to help people affected by conflict and disaster to survive, recover, and rebuild their lives. The IRC operates in over 40 countries and has a workforce of more than 14,000 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors including health, education, and economic wellbeing, and is committed to improving the lives of vulnerable populations worldwide. In Syria, the IRC serves as the Grant Agent for the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) System Capacity Grant, working closely with the Ministry of Education to enhance educational leadership and institutional performance.

Job Overview:
The Education Programme Coordinator plays a pivotal role in leading the technical support provided through the GPE System Capacity Grant. This position is embedded within the Ministry of Education and collaborates closely with the Programme Management Unit (PMU). The Coordinator is responsible for ensuring that technical assistance aligns with the Ministry's priorities and is effectively coordinated across various workstreams. This role involves translating strategic directions from the Programme Director into actionable work plans, managing day-to-day technical coordination, and supervising the Education Programme Officer. The Coordinator also serves as a key technical partner, interpreting evidence and shaping implementation responses to enhance educational reform efforts in Syria.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Technical Leadership and Implementation Management: Lead the technical coordination and implementation management across all SCG outcomes and workstreams. Translate the approved programme strategy into sequenced technical activities and ensure coherence across SCG-supported activities. Monitor progress against technical workplans and recommend adjustments as necessary. Support the development of consultant terms of reference and provide regular updates to the Programme Director.
• Programme Delivery: Provide technical support for the delivery of the SCG, ensuring alignment with Ministry priorities and GPE requirements.
• Technical Assistance and Institutional Strengthening: Coordinate capacity-strengthening modalities for relevant MoE departments, including training and mentoring. Support the translation of technical recommendations into practical systems and processes.
• Coordination: Facilitate cross-directorate coordination and support the co-chairing of relevant working groups. Monitor progress against technical priorities and adjust support as needed.
• Learning: Analyze lessons from programme implementation and recommend improvements. Produce technical summaries and contribute to programme reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in education, Public Policy, Social Sciences, Psychology, Human Development, Social Work, International Development, Public Administration, or a related field. Alternatively, a bachelor's degree with substantial relevant professional experience may be considered. Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of experience in education sector reform or institutional development, with a proven track record of working with Ministries of Education or similar government institutions. Experience in coordinating technical assistance and education sector programmes funded by international partners is essential.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field is required, with a bachelor's degree considered if accompanied by significant professional experience in education systems strengthening or related areas.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in education sector reform, institutional development, or technical assistance. Candidates should have experience working with government institutions and supporting education policy and sector planning.

Languages:
Fluency in Arabic and English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Damascus, Syria. The role involves a minimum of 20% travel. The IRC encourages national candidates to apply and offers an attractive relocation package for eligible candidates. The organization adheres to professional standards and values, including integrity, accountability, and respect for clients and communities.