Education Specialist

Organizational Context

UNICEF, the United Nations Children's Fund, is a global agency dedicated to providing humanitarian and developmental aid to children. Operating in 192 countries, UNICEF focuses on immunizations, disease prevention, maternal and child health, sanitation, education, and emergency relief. Its core mission is to promote the rights of every child, ensuring they have the opportunity to survive, develop, and reach their full potential, with a strong emphasis on equity for the most disadvantaged.

Job Purpose

This UNV assignment supports UNICEF’s Global Education Practice Team in Nairobi, focusing on advancing equitable and inclusive education. The role will provide technical assistance to country offices, addressing challenges for out-of-school children and promoting cross-sectoral integration of education with health, nutrition, WASH, and child protection. The objective is to ensure evidence-based planning, strategic partnerships, and advocacy efforts contribute to quality education access for all children, particularly the marginalized and vulnerable, aligning with UNICEF's mandate and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Responsibilities

The UN Volunteer Education Specialist will provide technical support to Country Offices on issues concerning out-of-school children and promoting equity and inclusion in education. This includes supporting the Equity, Disability, Gender, and Inclusion (EDGI) pillar, particularly research on educational inequity and learning outcomes, and facilitating a webinar series on education equity. The role also involves advancing cross-sectoral work, integrating education with health, nutrition, WASH, child protection, and social protection. This includes participation in coordination groups for school health and wellbeing initiatives and contributing to programme guidance and investment cases.

Work Experience

Requires 3 years of overall experience and 5 years of relevant experience. This includes proven experience in education for out-of-school or marginalized children, and cross-sectoral collaboration, preferably in developing countries. Experience working in international teams and with country offices is necessary. Strong research, analytical, writing, and communication skills are essential, along with the ability to work effectively in multicultural environments.

Skills

UNICEF competencies include building partnerships, self-awareness, ethical awareness, driving results, innovation, managing ambiguity, strategic thinking, and collaborative work. Expertise in development programmes and education is required. The role also demands strong research, analytical, and writing skills, with the ability to manage political and cultural sensitivity.

Explore related opportunities