International Consultant - Pacific Early Childhood Education (ECE) Systems
Organizational Context
UNICEF operates in over 190 countries, dedicated to saving children's lives, protecting their rights, and helping them reach their full potential. We are committed to promoting the rights of every child, offering diverse opportunities for professional and personal growth in a passionate and inclusive culture.
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to update and strengthen the assessment of Early Childhood Education (ECE) systems across 15 Pacific Island Countries. Building on previous reports and ministerial commitments, the consultant will provide a comprehensive analysis of current ECE system outcomes, progress, and persistent gaps. The work will culminate in a report for the March 2027 Conference of Pacific Education Ministers (CPEM), informing ministerial commitment and future investment in ECE. This assignment will also complement an ongoing evaluation of UNICEF's ECE contributions and support the finalization and rollout of the Pacific ECE Systems and Planning Toolkit.
Responsibilities
Conduct a thorough assessment of current Early Childhood Education (ECE) system outcomes across 15 Pacific Island Countries, building on the 2015, 2017, and 2024 Status Reports. Systematically evaluate the status of ECE systems, reflecting progress and identifying persistent gaps since previous reports. Develop concrete achievements and outline the road ahead for continued investment in ECE to improve foundational learning outcomes in the Pacific. Prepare an updated status report for the March 2027 Conference of Pacific Education Ministers (CPEM). Liaise with the parallel UNICEF ECE evaluation team to share findings, avoid duplication, and maximize complementarity. Support the finalization and roll-out of the Pacific ECE Systems and Planning Toolkit, developed under PacREF. Present findings and recommendations to relevant stakeholders, including government officials and regional bodies.
Work Experience
Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in early childhood education, education systems analysis, policy development, or related fields, with a significant portion of this experience in the Pacific region. Proven experience in research, report writing, and stakeholder engagement.
Skills
Early Childhood Education Systems Analysis, Policy Development and Review, Research and Report Writing, Stakeholder Engagement and Consultation, Project Management, Data Analysis, Understanding of Pacific Regional Education Frameworks (PacREF), Knowledge of Inclusive Education Principles, Capacity Building, Communication Skills, Cross-cultural Competency, UNICEF Programme Experience (Desirable)