STEM National Consultant for Samoa

Organizational Context

The "Fostering STEM Education in Africa and SIDS" project aims to improve Science and Mathematics education in Mali, Samoa, Solomon Islands, and Uganda. It focuses on developing quality, relevant, and gender-transformative STEM curricula and programs. The project supports identifying STEM skills needs, enhancing curricula, strengthening teaching resources, and promoting gender equality in STEM. Samoa is a key country for implementing these activities, addressing needs in competencies, pedagogies, resources, facilities, and teacher training, while tackling harmful stereotypes.

Job Purpose

The National Consultant for Samoa will provide crucial support to enhance the Science and Mathematics curricula within the country. This role involves ensuring the curriculum enhancement process is consultative, evidence-based, and inclusive, with a strong focus on gender transformation. The consultant will work closely with curriculum developers and teachers, offering technical expertise to lead the design and development of a STEM Skills Demand Assessment. This assessment will inform the creation of a gender-transformative STEM curriculum based on identified needs and recommendations. Additionally, the consultant will assess STEM labs and hubs, drafting guidelines for their optimal utilization and integration with the new curricula, ensuring adherence to international quality standards.

Responsibilities

The National Consultant will lead the design and implementation of a comprehensive STEM Skills Demand Assessment to identify gaps in foundational STEM competencies and their alignment with future skills needs. This involves reviewing STEM policies, curricula, and standards, and mapping learning activities across educational levels, with a focus on gender disparities. Data collection through stakeholder consultations and surveys will be conducted to identify skills in demand and related competencies, while examining gender-related barriers. The consultant will organize and facilitate national consultations to validate findings and draft a STEM Skills Demand Assessment Report with technical recommendations for integrating competencies and future pathways, ensuring gender-transformative approaches. Furthermore, the consultant will translate assessment findings into practical guidance for curriculum enhancement, working with national stakeholders to contextualize and strengthen existing curricula for priority competencies, promoting inclusive and gender-responsive pedagogy. The role also includes developing guidelines for establishing or upgrading STEM laboratories and hubs to support practical, learner-centered STEM education.

Work Experience

A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in STEM education, curriculum development, or a related field is required. Experience working with national education systems and stakeholders in Samoa is highly desirable.

Skills

Strong analytical and research skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Proven ability to facilitate workshops and consultations. Knowledge of gender-transformative approaches in education. Proficiency in data analysis and report writing. Familiarity with UNESCO's work and competency framework is advantageous.

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