International Consultant for Education Planning, Research, Monitoring and Data

Organizational Context

UNESCO Kabul Office is dedicated to advancing education sector development in Afghanistan. Its work encompasses sector planning, coordination, research, evidence generation, monitoring, evaluation, and data systems. These efforts directly support UNESCO Afghanistan's Country Strategic Objective 4, focusing on strengthening research, planning, monitoring, and evidence-informed programming. The office is currently implementing the GPE System Capacity Grant (SCG) to enhance education sector planning, coordination, evidence generation, and data systems.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to provide essential technical support for key education initiatives within Afghanistan, particularly those related to the GPE System Capacity Grant (SCG). The role involves contributing to the annual Education Situation Report, developing a Gender Preparedness and Recovery Plan, and refining Integrated Education Dashboards. The consultant will also conduct analytical work on the impact of restrictions on girls' education. The position requires performing general functions in education planning, research, monitoring, and data management to ensure the effective implementation and strengthening of the education sector in Afghanistan, aligning with UNESCO's strategic objectives and supporting evidence-informed decision-making.

Responsibilities

The consultant will provide technical review for GPE SCG activities and UNESCO education programme priorities, ensuring alignment with work plans and milestones. Responsibilities include supporting the implementation, monitoring, and review of education sector planning processes, and contributing to sector analysis, scenario-based planning, and the development of operational frameworks. The role involves analyzing implementation progress, identifying sector needs, and translating findings into actionable recommendations. A key duty is leading the development of a gender preparedness and recovery plan. The consultant will also lead the design and finalization of the 2026 Education Situation Report and conduct analytical work on the economic and social consequences of restrictions on girls' education. Furthermore, the consultant will provide technical support for monitoring, evaluation, and learning activities, ensure the quality of data collection and analysis, and contribute to the development of integrated education dashboards. Technical reporting, knowledge management, and capacity development support are also integral to this role.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressive professional experience is required in areas such as education sector planning, programme implementation, research, monitoring and evaluation, or education data management. Demonstrated experience in supporting education sector analysis, programme planning, or system-strengthening initiatives is essential. Experience with designing and implementing monitoring and evaluation frameworks, conducting quantitative and qualitative research, and preparing technical reports is also necessary.

Skills

The consultant must possess strong knowledge of education sector planning and results-based management. Essential skills include robust analytical and research capabilities, proficiency in synthesizing quantitative and qualitative data, and strong competencies in monitoring, evaluation, and learning. The ability to manage, assure quality of, analyze, and visualize education data is crucial. Excellent technical writing and reporting skills, along with the capacity to translate complex evidence into actionable recommendations, are required.

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