Education Specialist (Early Childhood Development)
Organizational Context
UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. In the Pacific, UNICEF's programme focuses on advancing children’s rights and wellbeing through integrated efforts in health, nutrition, education, child protection, climate resilience, and social policy, addressing pressing challenges facing small island developing states.
Job Purpose
The Education Specialist (Early Childhood Development) will contribute to the development and implementation of innovative and effective early childhood development (ECD) programmes within the Pacific Multi-Country Office (MCO). This role is crucial for advancing children's rights and wellbeing by strengthening essential services and improving equity for the most vulnerable children. The specialist will focus on enhancing the quality and accessibility of ECD services, ensuring that children, from early childhood through adolescence, have the right to a future. This involves working with governments and communities to build resilience and shape healthier, safer, and more inclusive futures for children across the Pacific region, with a particular emphasis on national capacity building and sustainable programme development.
Responsibilities
Contribute to the development, planning, and management of the education programme, with a focus on Early Childhood Development (ECD), ensuring alignment with UNICEF's global and regional strategies and country priorities. Provide technical expertise and support to government counterparts and partners in the design, implementation, and monitoring of ECD policies and programmes. Facilitate knowledge sharing and capacity building for national and sub-national stakeholders on best practices in ECD. Support the development and implementation of innovative approaches to ECD service delivery, including in remote and underserved areas. Monitor and evaluate the progress of ECD initiatives, identifying challenges and recommending adjustments to ensure effective outcomes. Contribute to resource mobilization efforts by supporting the development of proposals and engaging with potential donors. Prepare relevant documentation, reports, and communications materials related to the education programme and ECD initiatives. Collaborate with other UNICEF sections and UN agencies to ensure an integrated approach to child wellbeing. Advocate for the rights of children to quality early childhood education and development services. Support the MCO in its role as a model for other MCOs, sharing lessons learned and best practices in ECD programming.
Work Experience
At least two years of professional experience in education, with a specific focus on Early Childhood Development (ECD) programmes. Experience working in developing countries or in a cross-cultural setting is desirable. Experience with programme planning, implementation, and monitoring is required.
Skills
Early Childhood Development, Programme Planning, Programme Management, Monitoring and Evaluation, Capacity Building, Technical Expertise, Advocacy, Resource Mobilization, Cross-cultural Communication, Report Writing, Stakeholder Engagement, UNICEF Programme Strategies