Programme Specialist (RISE Programme Manager), P-3, Fixed Term Position, Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya, #00138303

Organizational Context

UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. At UNICEF, we are committed, passionate, and proud of what we do for as long as we are needed. Promoting the rights of every child is not just a job – it is a calling.

Job Purpose

Under the guidance and general supervision of the Chief, Education, with a dotted reporting line to the Deputy Representative, Programme, the Programme Specialist provides technical leadership, programme management and coordination support to advance RISE Kenya’s objective of establishing multiple, flexible and safe learning pathways to quality formal and non-formal secondary education, skills development and transition opportunities for out-of-school adolescents and youth. The role will support system capacity building, technology-enabled learning, data and evidence generation, and youth engagement to drive scalable, inclusive and sustainable education. The Programme Specialist contributes to achievement of results according to plans, allocation, results based-management approaches and methodology (RBM), as well as UNICEF’s Strategic Plans, standards of performance, and accountability framework.

Responsibilities

The position will serve as Programme Specialist for the RISE program signed between UNICEF and Mastercard Foundation. The position is the central coordination point across government, UNICEF, Mastercard Foundation, consortium partners, development partners, and private sector stakeholders, and carries accountability for program results, risk management, and reporting to the Program Steering Committee. Key functions and accountabilities include supporting programme development and planning by assisting in the design, adaptation, and implementation of multiple, flexible, and safe learning pathways. This includes formal and non-formal secondary education, accelerated learning, digital learning, and skills development options tailored to the diverse needs of out-of-school adolescents and youth. The role also supports meaningful adolescent and youth engagement through peer mobilization, youth-led advocacy, and feedback mechanisms to encourage return to learning, strengthen life and employability skills, and contribute to Kenya's educational landscape.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of professional experience in programme management, education, youth development, or a related field. Experience in programme design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation is required. Experience working with government, NGOs, and international organizations is desirable.

Skills

Programme Management, Education Policy, Youth Development, Stakeholder Engagement, Results-Based Management, Capacity Building, Data Analysis, Report Writing, Communication Skills, Project Planning, Risk Management, Adolescent Engagement

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