ICT Development International Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), which was established to promote economic and social development in the Asia-Pacific region. The organization focuses on fostering regional cooperation and integration, addressing issues such as sustainable development, disaster risk reduction, and information and communications technology. ESCAP operates in multiple countries across the Asia-Pacific region, working with governments, civil society, and the private sector to achieve its mission. The organization employs a diverse workforce and engages in various projects aimed at enhancing the capacity of member states.

Job Overview:
The ICT Development International Consultant position involves developing a tailored curriculum for two onsite training programs in China, in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) and the China Branch of the BRICS Institute of Future Networks. The consultant will also prepare a detailed report analyzing the specific needs, challenges, and opportunities related to Large Language Models (LLMs) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in four target countries. This includes a analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">technical analysis of the national AI and LLM architecture. Additionally, the consultant will lead the production of four draft country action plans, coordinating with country consultants to focus on utilizing AI tools and LLMs to enhance public administration services. The project aims to strengthen the capacity of government officials in Cambodia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Uzbekistan, enabling them to develop national action plans for LLM utilization in local languages.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for the following duties: 1) Develop a tailored curriculum for two onsite training programs in China, ensuring alignment with the needs of MIIT and the BRICS Institute. 2) Conduct a thorough analysis of the specific needs, challenges, and opportunities related to LLM and AI in the four target countries, culminating in a brief report of approximately 10 pages per country. 3) Lead the coordination and collaboration with four country consultants to produce four draft country action plans that outline strategies for leveraging AI tools and LLMs to improve public administration services. 4) Engage in knowledge sharing and dissemination of findings through relevant regional cooperation platforms, including the Asia-Pacific Information Superhighway (APIS). 5) Participate in meetings and discussions with stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the project objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in one or more relevant disciplines, including Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Information Technology, Public Policy, International Development, or a related field. Additionally, candidates should have a strong understanding of AI architecture, LLM deployment, and the technical challenges associated with local language adaptation and localization in public administration. A minimum of ten years of relevant experience is required, demonstrating expertise in the field.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in a relevant field such as Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Information Technology, Public Policy, or International Development. This advanced degree should provide the candidate with a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of the disciplines related to the project.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least ten years of professional experience in fields related to AI, LLMs, or 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 demonstrate a proven track record of working on similar projects or initiatives that involve capacity building and the application of technology in public service.

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, although it is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to be remote and has a duration of approximately nine months. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization also emphasizes that it does not require information regarding applicants' bank accounts.