Consultant National pour la réalisation d’une recherche opérationnelle (WEZIZA-EDUC), Benin, Req#594592

Organizational Context

UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. We are committed, passionate, and proud of what we do. Promoting the rights of every child is not just a job – it's a vocation. We offer diverse opportunities for professional and personal development.

Job Purpose

The Government of Benin, with support from the Global Partnership for Education (GPE), is implementing the WEZIZA EDUC Program. The overall objective is to transform the education system by improving access, quality, retention, and equity, especially for girls in primary and lower secondary education. Component 2, 'Accelerating Girls' Education and Well-being,' specifically addresses social, economic, health, and psychosocial challenges hindering girls' continued education. To optimize effectiveness, an operational research study is crucial to document, evaluate, and capitalize on best practices and lessons learned. This research will provide insights into how, why, and under what conditions interventions succeed or fail, enabling continuous program adjustments.

Responsibilities

The consultant will conduct an operational research study to inform the design and implementation of holistic, multi-sectoral interventions aimed at creating favorable conditions for girls' schooling. This involves understanding the barriers and facilitators to girls' education and well-being. The research will employ mixed-methods approaches, including co-creation and stakeholder engagement, to gather data on the effectiveness of proposed interventions. Key responsibilities include designing the research methodology, developing data collection tools, managing field data collection teams, conducting quantitative and qualitative data analysis, and synthesizing findings. The consultant will also facilitate workshops to validate findings and ensure the research is actionable. A significant part of the role involves documenting best practices, lessons learned, and providing recommendations for program adjustments and policy development. The research will focus on understanding the context-specific factors influencing girls' educational outcomes and well-being, ensuring the interventions are relevant and impactful. The consultant will be responsible for producing comprehensive research reports and presentations for various stakeholders, contributing to the evidence base for girls' education in Benin.

Work Experience

At least 5 years of proven experience in education research or behavior change, with prior experience in Benin or similar West African contexts being an asset. Experience in mixed-methods research (quantitative and qualitative), including co-creation and stakeholder mobilization, is required. Experience in operational research applied to public policies, educational programs, or social interventions is a major asset.

Skills

Mixed-methods research (quantitative and qualitative), Operational research, Data analysis (quantitative and qualitative), Stakeholder engagement, Co-creation approaches, Research design, Data collection management, Report writing, Workshop facilitation, Knowledge of Kobo Toolbox, Understanding of girls' education barriers, Gender integration in research

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