Education Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) is an international organization dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees, asylum seekers, and displaced persons. Established in 1950, the UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members worldwide. Its mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily. The organization works to safeguard the rights of refugees and to help them rebuild their lives. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the UNHCR plays a crucial role in addressing the educational needs of displaced populations, particularly in conflict-affected areas.

Job Overview:
The Education Associate position at UNHCR is focused on promoting access to inclusive, safe, and quality education for refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons, returnees, and children from host communities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The role is critical in a humanitarian context marked by significant internal displacement, with over 7.1 million people displaced due to ongoing conflicts, particularly in the eastern provinces such as North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri. The Education Associate will work to ensure that educational programs are effectively implemented and that the needs of vulnerable populations are met. This includes collaborating with local education authorities, NGOs, and community leaders to enhance educational access and quality, as well as advocating for the inclusion of displaced children in the national education system.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement educational programs tailored to the needs of refugees and displaced populations.
• Collaborate with local education authorities and partners to ensure the integration of displaced children into the national education system.
• Monitor and evaluate educational initiatives to assess their effectiveness and impact on the target populations.
• Provide technical support and guidance to schools and educational institutions serving refugee and displaced children.
• Advocate for policies and practices that promote inclusive education and protect the rights of displaced children.
• Facilitate training and capacity-building workshops for teachers and educational staff on inclusive education practices.
• Prepare reports and documentation on educational needs and challenges faced by refugees and displaced persons.
• Engage with community stakeholders to raise awareness about the importance of education for all children, regardless of their background.

Required Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of the educational challenges faced by refugees and displaced populations.
• Experience in program development and implementation in the education sector.
• Knowledge of inclusive education practices and policies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to work in a challenging and dynamic environment, often under pressure.
• Proficiency in project management and monitoring and evaluation techniques.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in education, social sciences, or a related field is required. A master's degree in education or a related field is preferred, particularly with a focus on refugee education or humanitarian response.

Experience:
A minimum of 3 years of relevant professional experience in education, preferably in a humanitarian context or with displaced populations. Experience working with international organizations or NGOs is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, as it is the primary language of instruction and communication in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Proficiency in English is desirable, and knowledge of local languages would be an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under UNOPS LICA6, indicating a level of responsibility and complexity. The target start date for this position is September 1, 202

• The role is not remote and requires presence in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo. The position is full-time and may involve travel to various regions affected by displacement.