Learning and Scaling Lead, Rwanda

Job Posting Organization:
The Education Outcomes Fund (EOF) is a global initiative that aims to transform how education and skills are financed and delivered. EOF partners with governments, donors, investors, and implementers to enhance the effectiveness, equity, and accountability of education systems. The organization is part of a broader movement to ensure that education financing translates into real learning and employment outcomes, particularly for disadvantaged children and youth. EOF operates under the auspices of UNOPS, which facilitates the achievement of the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through quality services and integrated solutions.

Job Overview:
The Learning and Scaling Lead will play a crucial role in the Education Outcomes Fund's mission to improve early childhood development outcomes in Rwanda. This position involves developing and implementing a learning, scaling, and evidence synthesis agenda that translates program evidence into actionable insights for government decision-making and system strengthening. The successful candidate will work closely with the Country Lead to ensure that evidence generated through the program informs policy recommendations and contributes to the sustainability of educational initiatives. The role requires a strategic approach to integrating learnings within the education system, aligning with national strategies and priorities, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Operationalize the Sustainability Pathways Learning Agenda by refining learning questions and developing annual learning plans.
• Lead the collection and synthesis of implementation evidence, collaborating with partners to analyze data and identify lessons learned.
• Support government systems strengthening by assessing readiness for integration of program components and documenting lessons related to service delivery models.
• Conduct analyses of scaling potential and sustainability options, identifying barriers and enablers to successful interventions.
• Design and facilitate learning forums and peer exchanges to promote knowledge sharing among stakeholders.
• Draft policy briefs and strategic recommendations to support evidence-based decision-making.
• Develop a learning repository for program evidence and resources, documenting case studies and promising practices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in International Development, Public Policy, Education, Economics, Political Science, or a related field. A Master’s degree in a similar discipline is preferred. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 7 years of experience in education, skills-for-employment, development, or policy programs, with demonstrated experience in education systems strengthening and social sector programming. Experience working with government institutions and in policy analysis is essential, along with a proven track record of producing high-quality analytical reports and policy briefs.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is required, with a Master’s degree being highly desirable. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in areas pertinent to international development, public policy, or education, equipping the candidate with the necessary skills to navigate complex educational landscapes and contribute to policy formulation and implementation.

Experience:
The position requires at least 7 years of relevant experience in education and development sectors, particularly in roles that involve policy analysis, systems strengthening, and program implementation. Candidates should have experience working with national or sub-national governments and a background in evidence generation and innovative financing mechanisms is advantageous. Experience with large donor-funded programs and a track record of producing high-quality analytical outputs are also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the local context or the stakeholders involved in the educational initiatives.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as mid-level and falls under the ICA - LICA - Specialist - Regular contract type. The contract duration is ongoing, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds, and satisfactory performance. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging applications from a wide range of candidates, including those from underrepresented groups. The organization conducts background checks for all final candidates to ensure a safe and respectful workplace.