ICT Development International Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) is a regional development arm of the United Nations, established in 194

• Its mission is to promote economic and social development in the Asia-Pacific region through regional cooperation and integration. ESCAP works with 62 member states and 9 associate members, focusing on sustainable development, poverty reduction, and enhancing regional connectivity. The organization employs a diverse workforce of over 300 professionals from various countries, contributing to its mission of fostering inclusive and sustainable development across the region.

Job Overview:
The ICT Development International Consultant position is designed to enhance the capabilities of government officials in Cambodia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Uzbekistan. The consultant will be responsible for developing a tailored curriculum for two onsite training programs in China, collaborating with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) and the China Branch of the BRICS Institute of Future Networks. Additionally, the consultant will prepare a comprehensive report analyzing the specific needs, challenges, and opportunities related to Large Language Models (LLMs) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the context of public administration. This role requires leading the production of four draft country action plans that focus on utilizing AI tools and LLMs to improve public administration services, thereby contributing to the overall objective of the China–ESCAP Cooperation Programme (CECP). The consultant will work remotely for an expected duration of 8 months, engaging with various stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the project.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing a tailored curriculum for two onsite training programs in collaboration with MIIT and the BRICS Institute of Future Networks.
• Conducting a thorough analysis of the specific needs, challenges, and opportunities related to LLM and AI in four target countries, culminating in a brief report of approximately 10 pages per country.
• Leading and coordinating with four country consultants to produce four draft country action plans that outline strategies for utilizing AI tools and LLMs to enhance public administration services.
• Engaging with government officials and stakeholders to gather insights and feedback on the curriculum and action plans.
• Ensuring that the training programs and action plans are aligned with the objectives of the CECP and relevant regional cooperation platforms, such as the Asia-Pacific Information Superhighway (APIS).
• Providing technical expertise on AI architecture, LLM deployment, and localization challenges in public administration.
• Participating in regional knowledge-sharing activities to disseminate findings and best practices.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master's degree in one or more of the following disciplines: Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Information Technology, Public Policy, International Development, or a related field. The consultant must possess a strong understanding of AI architecture, LLM deployment, and the technical challenges associated with local language adaptation and localization in public administration. Additionally, candidates should have no less than ten years of relevant experience in the field, demonstrating a proven track record of working on similar projects.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Master's degree in a relevant field such as Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Information Technology, Public Policy, International Development, or a related discipline. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively contribute to the project.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of professional experience in areas related to AI, LLMs, and public administration. This experience should include a strong focus on the deployment of AI technologies and an understanding of the challenges faced in local language adaptation and localization. Candidates should have a history of working on projects that involve capacity building for government officials or similar stakeholders, demonstrating their ability to lead and coordinate complex initiatives.

Languages:
The consultant must have an excellent command of spoken and written English, as this is essential for effective communication and reporting. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the target countries (Cambodia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Uzbekistan) would be considered an asset, but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. The expected duration of the consultancy is 8 months, during which the consultant will engage with various stakeholders and contribute to the development of training programs and action plans. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and fair hiring process.