Expert for Developing Jordan’s Partnership Compact

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, is a specialized agency of the United Nations aimed at promoting world peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. Established in 1945, UNESCO has a mission to contribute to the building of peace, the eradication of poverty, sustainable development, and intercultural dialogue. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a workforce of more than 2,000 employees. UNESCO is particularly known for its role in promoting education as a fundamental human right and for its efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4), which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. UNESCO's work is guided by its core values of commitment, integrity, respect for diversity, and professionalism, which are essential in fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment in its operations.

Job Overview:
The position involves supporting the Jordanian Ministry of Education (MoE) in developing the Jordan Partnership Compact under the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) grant. The expert will work closely with the MoE and the Policy, Planning and Coordination Committee (PPCC) to ensure that the compact development process is participatory and inclusive, engaging all relevant stakeholders in the education sector. The role requires a deep understanding of the education landscape in Jordan, as well as the ability to facilitate workshops and meetings to gather input and feedback from various stakeholders. The expert will also be responsible for conducting a comprehensive Enabling Factors Analysis (EFA) to identify the necessary conditions for successful education reform and transformation. This position is critical in aligning the new Education Strategic Plan (ESP) with the Economic Modernization Vision (EMV) and ensuring that the partnership compact reflects the needs and priorities of the education sector in Jordan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The expert will be tasked with conducting a desk review and facilitating workshops for the Enabling Factors Analysis, which includes identifying relevant documentation and data related to gender-responsive sector planning, policy, and financing. They will prepare and submit a draft version of the Enabling Factor Analysis for review by the PPCC, conduct meetings with MoE staff and senior management, and engage with various stakeholders including donors and NGOs. The expert will also facilitate workshops for the development of the partnership compact, deliver a draft version of the compact that outlines key policy outcomes, and present this draft to the PPCC. Additionally, they will finalize the compact based on feedback from the Independent Technical Assessment Panel (ITAP) and ensure that all meetings are documented appropriately.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in Education, International Development Studies, Social/Political Sciences, or related fields. A minimum of 10 years of professional experience in education, strategic planning, partnerships, or coordination is required, preferably in an international context. Experience working with Ministries of Education and education partners is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills, excellent facilitation and stakeholder engagement abilities, and the capacity to translate complex data into actionable priorities. A strong understanding of gender and inclusion issues in education is essential, as is familiarity with the Jordanian education context and previous experience with the Global Partnership for Education.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Education, International Development Studies, Social/Political Sciences, or related disciplines is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of education systems and the strategic planning processes involved in developing effective education policies and programs.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in the field of education, strategic planning, partnerships, or coordination. This experience should ideally be gained in an international setting, with a focus on working with governmental bodies, particularly Ministries of Education. Previous involvement in education sector planning and coordination, as well as experience with international organizations or partnerships, will be highly beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Arabic is mandatory for this position. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication with stakeholders in Jordan and for the successful facilitation of workshops and meetings. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is between 1 to 6 months, and it is open to external candidates. The application deadline is set for April 1, 202

• The role is expected to involve significant collaboration with various stakeholders in the education sector, and the expert will be required to document all meetings and ensure that the partnership compact development process is transparent and inclusive. The position may involve travel within Jordan to engage with stakeholders and facilitate workshops.