Consultant - AI and Data Readiness

Organizational Context

The UN Secretariat, specifically the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), is implementing the Data for Now initiative. This initiative aims to enhance countries' capacities to produce and disseminate timely, disaggregated data for the 2030 Agenda. This consultancy supports a regional workshop for African LDCs to build foundational capabilities for AI adoption in official statistics.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to support the Data for Now initiative by developing practical guidance materials and facilitating a regional workshop focused on AI readiness for official statistics in African Least Developed Countries (LDCs). The role will help countries advance their foundational capabilities in adopting AI, covering areas such as data management, quality control, governance, and skill development. The consultant will collaborate with various UN bodies, national statistical offices, and digital government entities to foster integration of AI strategies and leverage existing capacities. The ultimate goal is to improve data production and dissemination for sustainable development, aligning with national and regional frameworks.

Responsibilities

Develop a detailed work plan with key outputs and timelines. Synthesize existing materials, tools, and policy frameworks related to AI readiness for official statistics, with a focus on African LDCs. Design and prepare comprehensive workshop materials, including presentations, templates, practical exercises, and facilitation guides. Engage with national statistical offices, digital government agencies, and international partners to gather inputs and feedback. Identify and document country needs, challenges, and use cases. Facilitate the regional workshop, coordinate with participants and partners, and document lessons learned. Prepare post-workshop reports summarizing outcomes, challenges, and recommendations for future support and collaboration.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressive experience in social sciences, including statistics, economics, or data science, is required. Three years of experience working with national statistical systems in developing countries is essential. Demonstrated experience in data governance, management, and quality frameworks, particularly related to AI for official statistics, is necessary. Experience in designing capacity development initiatives is also required.

Skills

AI readiness for official statistics, data governance, data management, data quality frameworks, statistical production, capacity development, workshop facilitation, collaboration, communication, report writing, understanding of AI adoption challenges in public sector/low-resource settings, knowledge of SDGs.

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