Education Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) is a global 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, providing assistance and support to millions of people worldwide. The organization aims to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and it works to promote durable solutions for refugees, including integration into host communities and voluntary repatriation. The UNHCR is committed to upholding the principles of international protection and advocating for the rights of displaced individuals, particularly in regions affected by conflict and crisis, such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Job Overview:
The Education Associate position at UNHCR is crucial for enhancing 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. This role is set against the backdrop of a humanitarian crisis characterized by significant internal displacement, with over 7.1 million people displaced due to ongoing conflicts, particularly in the eastern provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri. The Education Associate will work to ensure that educational opportunities are available and accessible to all affected children, focusing on integrating refugees into the national education system. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government entities, NGOs, and community organizations, to develop and implement educational programs that meet the diverse needs of displaced populations. The Education Associate will also monitor and evaluate educational initiatives to ensure they are effective and aligned with UNHCR's strategic objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement educational programs that cater to the needs of refugees and displaced children, ensuring inclusivity and quality.
• Collaborate with local education authorities and partners to facilitate the integration of refugee children into the national education system.
• Conduct assessments to identify educational needs and gaps within refugee and host communities.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of educational initiatives and provide recommendations for improvement.
• Prepare reports and documentation related to educational programs and their impact on the community.
• Organize training and capacity-building workshops for teachers and educational staff working with refugee populations.
• Advocate for the rights of refugee children to access education and participate in decision-making processes affecting their education.
• Liaise with other UN agencies, NGOs, and community organizations to coordinate efforts and share best practices in education for displaced populations.

Required Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of the educational needs of refugees and displaced populations.
• Experience in program development and implementation in the education sector, particularly in humanitarian contexts.
• Knowledge of national education policies and frameworks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to work in a challenging and dynamic environment, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in education, social sciences, international development, or a related field is required. A master's degree in a relevant discipline is preferred and may be considered an asset.

Experience:
A minimum of 3 years of professional experience in education, preferably in a humanitarian or development context. Experience working with refugees or displaced populations is highly desirable. Familiarity with the educational landscape in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, as it is the primary language of instruction and communication in the DRC. Proficiency in English is desirable and may enhance communication with international stakeholders. Knowledge of local languages spoken in the regions affected by displacement is a plus.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under UNOPS LICA6 and is not remote. The target start date for this position is September 1, 202

• The role is full-time and may involve travel to various locations within the DRC to support educational initiatives.