Coordinador Fortalecimiento Académico de la Gerencia Externa Especializada Apoyo técnico ITSE Panama

Organizational Context

The Instituto Técnico Superior Especializado (ITSE) is a higher education institution established in Panama to meet the demand for highly qualified talent in the productive sector. It offers advanced technical programs through specialized schools. With support from the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF) and a partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (PNUD), ITSE aims to enhance its academic, institutional, and governance dimensions. UNESCO is collaborating to provide technical support for the establishment and management of a specialized external management unit.

Job Purpose

This consultancy focuses on strengthening the academic offerings of the Instituto Técnico Superior Especializado (ITSE) in Panama. The role involves coordinating a work package dedicated to academic enhancement, under the supervision of UNESCO and the GEE Coordinator. Key areas include curriculum updating, dual training, trainer development, new educational programs, and the design and implementation of Science, Technology, and Innovation plans. The objective is to align ITSE's academic system with the productive sector, fostering knowledge generation and contributing to the country's economic and social development. The position requires technical and administrative planning, preparation for contracting, and management of execution for academic development packages, ensuring successful project outcomes and institutional capacity building.

Responsibilities

Under the general supervision of UNESCO and the GEE Coordinator, the consultant will technically and operationally lead the academic strengthening work package throughout its lifecycle. This includes planning and conceptualizing activities, developing Terms of Reference (TDR) and technical specifications, and providing expert support during tender processes. The role involves administering, technically supervising, and monitoring the execution of resulting contracts to ensure timely and quality delivery of all outputs. Responsibilities also include designing and implementing training plans for ITSE staff in collaboration with the Project Execution Unit (UEP), conducting regular planning and monitoring exercises, and suggesting process adjustments. Maintaining constant communication with the UEP, PNUD-ITSE Project Coordination Unit, and UNESCO is crucial. Participation in meetings, preparing reports, and performing other related functions to ensure efficient project operation are also required, adhering to project guidelines and documentation.

Work Experience

Requires at least 5 years of verifiable experience in higher education institutions, focusing on coordination, supervision, design, planning, implementation, and evaluation of educational projects. Experience in teacher professional development, curriculum design/updating, and preparing Terms of Reference for educational sector procurements is essential. Proven experience in capacity building for institutional staff and strong analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills are required. Familiarity with Learning Management Systems (LMS) and Microsoft Office Suite is also needed.

Skills

Key competencies include Communication, Accountability, Innovation, Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement, Planning and Organizing, Results Focus, and Teamwork. Additional skills involve excellent interpersonal abilities, strong analytical and writing capabilities for various documents, and proficiency in academic data interpretation. Advanced IT skills, particularly with Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint), and experience with LMS platforms are necessary.

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