Technical Support to Local Governments for Planning and Implementing Expansion of Early Childhood Education and Care
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. 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
The purpose of this consultancy is to provide sustained technical support to four municipalities/cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Istocno Novo Sarajevo, Banja Luka, Laktasi, and Gradiska) to expand equitable access to quality Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC). This support is part of the Joint UN Programme Accelerating Agenda 2030 through Governance and Sustainable Growth (SDG 2030 BiH). The consultant will facilitate the development of five-year ECEC expansion plans and support the implementation of one locally contextualized, co-funded expansion initiative in each municipality/city. The role involves close collaboration with local administrations, education authorities, and other relevant social-sector authorities to ensure coordinated decisions on provision, financing, staffing, affordability, and inclusion.
Responsibilities
Provide technical support to four municipalities/cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina for the planning and implementation of Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) expansion. Facilitate the development of five-year ECEC expansion plans tailored to local contexts. Support the implementation of one locally contextualized, co-funded expansion initiative in each municipality/city. Adapt and apply UNICEF's existing planning methodology, relevant examples from other cities, and costing tools to local circumstances. Strengthen municipal ownership of ECEC expansion initiatives. Assist in translating agreed priorities into practical projects and sustainable public financing mechanisms. Support the implementation of innovative local-level initiatives, such as models of subsidies for families, to increase ECEC enrollment. Collaborate with local administrations, education authorities, and other relevant social-sector authorities to ensure coordinated decision-making. Monitor and report on the progress of ECEC expansion activities in the designated municipalities/cities.
Work Experience
Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in education policy, programme management, or technical assistance, preferably in the field of early childhood education and care. Experience working with local governments and international organizations is desirable.
Skills
Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC), Programme Planning and Implementation, Technical Support, Policy Development, Stakeholder Engagement, Capacity Building, Project Management, Budget Management, Monitoring and Evaluation, Report Writing, UNICEF Planning Methodology, Costing Tools