Data and Coordination Specialist

Organizational Context

The protracted conflict in Syria has severely disrupted education systems, necessitating effective data and information management for evidence-based decision-making and resource allocation. Current education data systems face challenges like fragmented collection and weak validation. Strengthening the Ministry of Education's capacity and enhancing the Modeer platform are key priorities for improving education delivery and learning outcomes, especially for vulnerable children.

Job Purpose

The Data and Coordination Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the Syrian Ministry of Education to enhance the Modeer platform, ensuring it aligns with national needs and global education standards. This involves improving data analysis and management capabilities to support evidence-based planning and monitoring. The specialist will also contribute to strengthening institutional capacities through professional development initiatives for education personnel. The role requires effective coordination among stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation and timely delivery of the UNESCO Syria Education Programme, focusing on improving data quality, governance, and the overall effectiveness of the education sector.

Responsibilities

The Data and Coordination Specialist will serve as the primary technical focal point for daily coordination with the Ministry of Education, ensuring information flow and activity alignment. Responsibilities include translating project objectives into operational actions, facilitating technical exchanges and consultations, and monitoring project progress while identifying risks. The specialist will provide technical advice and support to counterparts on data challenges, document feedback, and coordinate with UN agencies and education sector partners to align activities and avoid duplication. Key expected results include developing a national EMIS Roadmap, harmonizing core education indicators aligned with SDG4, establishing a national framework for education data governance, enhancing the Modeer platform, transferring institutional and technical capacity to MoE staff, and developing/implementing a capacity-building program for teachers and school leaders.

Work Experience

A minimum of four years of relevant professional experience is required in education policy and planning, project coordination, education monitoring, research, evaluation, data analysis, database management, information management, EMIS, or teacher professional development. Experience in managing large datasets, using data visualization tools, and working in fragile or humanitarian contexts is desirable.

Skills

Demonstrated understanding of education policy and planning, with the ability to apply data management for decision-making. Strong interpersonal, communication, writing, organizational, planning, monitoring, and reporting skills are essential. The ability to work in a diverse team, take initiative, and manage pressure is crucial. Solid knowledge in education monitoring, SDG4 indicators, database management, and statistical software (e.g., R, Python, SPSS, SQL, Excel) is required. Experience in teacher professional development and capacity building is also important.

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