Consultancy: Learning Assessments and SDG 4 Indicator Methodology

Organizational Context

The UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) serves as the custodian agency for SDG 4 indicators, focusing on developing methodologies, maintaining global databases, and providing technical guidance to enhance education statistics. UIS plays a crucial role in monitoring SDG 4, particularly indicator 4.1.1, through learning assessments. The institute supports countries, assessment providers, and policymakers by developing guidance, tools, and reporting mechanisms. UIS also manages and disseminates a wide range of SDG 4 indicators derived from various data sources, ensuring data quality and comparability.

Job Purpose

The UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS), as the custodian agency for SDG 4 indicators, is seeking a consultant to support its ongoing work programme. This role is critical for improving the quality, comparability, and use of education statistics globally. The consultant will contribute to the revision and development of guidance materials and communication products, focusing on learning indicators and those derived from cross-national assessment programmes. Key responsibilities include updating selected SDG 4 indicator datasets and documentation, and preparing analytical products to strengthen the dissemination and utilization of UIS education data. This position is vital for supporting regional consultations and preparations for the UNESCO Conference on Education Data and Statistics, ensuring robust data for global education monitoring.

Responsibilities

The consultant will undertake several key tasks under the guidance of the Head of the Foresight, Research and Methodology Section. This includes revising the "Buyer's Guide to International Student Assessments (2025 edition)" by incorporating feedback from partners, experts, and country representatives to ensure it supports informed decision-making aligned with national priorities and SDG 4 monitoring. Additionally, the consultant will develop a concept and implementation proposal for an interactive online decision tree to help users identify suitable assessment options. A concise communication document will be developed to promote the UIS Vetting Mechanism, highlighting its purpose and benefits. The consultant will also prepare a discussion paper on methodological challenges related to learning indicators beyond SDG 4.1.1 and a technical note on indicators derived from cross-national assessment programmes, focusing on comparability. Finally, the consultant will update relevant SDG indicator datasets and associated metadata, ensuring consistency with UIS standards and documenting all revisions.

Work Experience

A minimum of 8 to 10 years of relevant professional experience in applied social statistics, with a preference for experience in learning outcome assessments. At least 3 to 5 years of this experience should be at the international level, preferably within a UN agency or a government ministry. Demonstrated expertise in education statistics, learning assessments, and SDG 4 monitoring is essential.

Skills

The role requires strong analytical skills for reviewing methodologies and validating datasets. Excellent drafting and communication abilities are necessary to produce clear technical guidance and communication products for diverse audiences. Solid knowledge of cross-national learning assessment programmes and the SDG 4 monitoring framework is crucial. The ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines is also important. Proven research experience in education is desirable.

Explore related opportunities