Project Officer (Education)
Organizational Context
The UNESCO Kabul Office, under the Skills Development and Literacy (SDL) programme, is implementing projects supported by various donors. A key initiative, "Improving Livelihoods of Women and Youth through Literacy and Skill Acquisition," aims to empower individuals aged 12-45 in four Afghan provinces. This project integrates livelihood skills training with literacy, providing opportunities in libraries, communities, and vocational centers. UNESCO seeks a Project Officer to manage this and similar projects within the SDL programme.
Job Purpose
The Project Officer will ensure efficient operations by adhering to UNESCO's Administrative and Financial Manuals and Staff Rules, mitigating risks, and minimizing adverse impacts. This role involves leading a team of 5-6 national staff and supervising international and national consultants. The officer will collaborate with other project officers within the Skills Development and Literacy (SDL) Programme to foster coherence and synergies. Maintaining regular internal and external communication with key stakeholders is crucial. The position requires overall project management, including planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting, ensuring the project's goals and objectives are met effectively and efficiently.
Responsibilities
The Project Officer is responsible for the overall management of the education project, encompassing planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting. This includes leading and managing the project team to ensure timely and quality delivery of interventions, coordinating technical and operational elements, and facilitating activities with stakeholders. The officer will maintain an integrated work plan, results framework, and risk register for adaptive management. Responsibilities also involve identifying and engaging local partners, planning and monitoring procurement of goods and services, and following up on contract execution. The role requires building synergies with other UNESCO projects and those of development partners. Additionally, the officer will lead monitoring and evaluation activities, report on progress, manage the project's financial status, and develop communication and visibility plans. Effective technical coordination with external stakeholders, donors, and partners is essential, as is participating in meetings to advocate for UNESCO's work and contribute to resource mobilization. Staff recruitment, management, and capacity development are also key duties, alongside organizing knowledge-sharing events and preparing project success stories.
Work Experience
A minimum of 4 years of relevant work experience in education or related fields, with at least 2 years at the international level. Previous experience in developing countries and managing teams in a multicultural environment is required. Experience in managing literacy and non-formal education projects, UN experience, or work in crisis-affected contexts is desirable.
Skills
Excellent project management skills, including results-based management, financial management, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the capacity to draft clearly and concisely. Ability to work effectively in a team and build partnerships. Adaptability in post-conflict settings and cultural diversity. Strong IT skills and proficiency in standard office software. Knowledge of UNESCO's mission and action in education is beneficial.