Associate National Project Officer (Education)

Organizational Context

The UNESCO Office in Uzbekistan is actively engaged in initiatives to enhance the quality and inclusivity of education. The nation's education sector is undergoing reforms, but challenges persist in teacher capacity and professional development. Many educators still employ traditional teaching methods, necessitating a shift towards modern pedagogical approaches, digital skills, and inclusive practices. UNESCO's Teacher Education programme aims to address these gaps by strengthening pre-service and in-service training.

Job Purpose

The Associate National Project Officer will provide crucial technical expertise to support the implementation of UNESCO's Education Programme in Uzbekistan. This role involves coordinating with national and international partners to ensure program objectives align with the government's education reform agenda. The officer will contribute to detailed work plans, facilitate the timely delivery of project activities, and offer technical support for curriculum review and revision. A key focus will be on developing learner-centered and competency-based approaches, reforming pre-service teacher education, and establishing systems for continuous professional development. The position requires ensuring that all initiatives integrate UNESCO's priorities on quality, equity, inclusion, and gender equality, thereby contributing to improved teacher capacity and high-quality education delivery.

Responsibilities

Provide technical inputs for the preparation and implementation of detailed work plans for UNESCO's Education Programme, particularly in pre-service teacher education. Offer technical support for reviewing and revising teacher education curricula, developing new courses, and strengthening methodologies that promote learner-centered and competency-based approaches. Assist the Education Unit in coordinating and overseeing daily program activities to ensure adherence to work plans and timelines. Support the design and implementation of reforms in pre-service teacher education and continuous professional development systems aligned with Competency-Based Education (CBE) principles. Contribute to the development and validation of a CBE-aligned practicum model to enhance the link between theory and practice. Support institutional capacity building for teacher training centers, education faculties, and professional development centers. Maintain regular communication with local implementing partners, such as pedagogical universities, to ensure quality and timely project delivery. Ensure all policy reform, curriculum revision, practicum development, and capacity-building initiatives integrate UNESCO's priorities on quality, equity, inclusion, and gender equality. Facilitate communication and collaboration between UNESCO, line ministries, and other national stakeholders. Liaise with international and national development partners to ensure synergy. Provide technical inputs for monitoring and evaluation frameworks, analyze performance data, and support the preparation of progress reports. Participate in organizing workshops and training sessions, and contribute to the development of knowledge products.

Work Experience

A minimum of four years of relevant professional experience in the field of general education is required. Experience in pre-service and in-service teacher training is desirable.

Skills

Excellent oral and written communication skills. Proficiency in results-based and budget management tools. Ability to work under pressure, manage heavy workloads, and meet deadlines with attention to detail. Strong IT skills, including standard office software. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills. Ability to work effectively in a multicultural, international team environment. Familiarity with UN administrative procedures, preferably UNESCO, is desirable.

Explore related opportunities