Programme Specialist Education

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Job Description

The Programme Specialist in Education, based in Vientiane, Lao PDR, is instrumental in advancing UNESCO’s education strategy in the Asia-Pacific region. The incumbent is responsible for the conceptualization, planning, development, coordination, and implementation of education programmes and projects, working independently with minimal supervision while maintaining close collaboration with the Chief of the Education Section and Education Programme Specialists in the Regional Office. Key responsibilities include providing technical support to the Member State in the review and formulation of its education sector wide policy, the development of its education strategies and plans, establishing positive collaborations and partnerships, and engaging with various stakeholders to promote UNESCO’s initiatives. The role also involves resource mobilization and the management of projects, including supervising staff and ensuring alignment with UNESCO’s global and regional frameworks. Strong project management skills, partnership development skills, and the ability to work in a multicultural environment, and a commitment to UNESCO’s educational goals are essential for success in this position.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Contribute to the overall strategic priority setting, conceptualization, design, planning, development, coordination, monitoring, and implementation of programmes, projects, and activities related to the Education strategy in the Asia-Pacific region, in alignment with UNESCO’s 42/C4 and 42/C5 frameworks and in coordination with UNESCO Headquarters and Institutes when relevant.
Identify key focus areas within Lao PDR national priorities, in line with the National Socio-Economic Development Plan and the National Education and Sports Sector Development Plan. When requested by national authorities, propose alignment of these priorities with UN frameworks (e.g., Education for Sustainable Development 2015) and the approaches and strategies of development partners. Facilitate linkages between UNESCO’s education initiatives at national, regional, and global levels, and identify opportunities for inter-sectoral collaboration in close cooperation with relevant stakeholders.
Support UNESCO’s active participation in the UNCT and related working groups, as well as in all UN planning exercises, working closely with the UN Resident Coordinator Office and other UN agencies. This includes, but not limited to, the identification of opportunities or areas for improved alignment of projects and activities at country and regional levels, including the preparation of Common Country Assessments (CCAs), United Nations Development Assistance Frameworks (UNDAFs), Country Programme Document (CPD), and Country Programme Action Plans (CPAPs), ensuring coherence with UNESCO’s regional goals and the objectives of national and UN agencies.
Provide strategic policy advise to the Member State and initiate and contribute to sector wide policy development in the education sector, as well as advocate for and lead inter-sectoral collaboration and quality assurance exercises. Promote UNESCO’s position and involvement in these areas and contribute to relevant regional guidelines informed by comprehensive stocktaking exercises at country level and in the region.
Support resource mobilization efforts and develop alternative funding mechanisms for the region and Lao PDR. This includes developing concepts and project proposals aligned with the 42 C/4 and 42 C/5 frameworks, collaborating with UN agencies seeking or marketing joint programmes, bilateral and multilateral partners, continental development banks (e.g., ADB or others), and international institutions (e.g., WB, EU). Track submissions and coordinate donor meetings effectively.
Support increased visibility and positioning of UNESCO through fostering external partnerships with government counterparts, donors, development partners, UN agencies, civil society organizations and private sector. This includes representing UNESCO in education coordination fora, such as the Education and Sports Sector Working Group and the Teacher Education Working Group and contributing to knowledge management, reporting, and communication materials.
Carry out project management, including technical backstopping, financial oversight, and human resources management in line with UNESCO policy and regulations. Supervise project consultants, experts, and other service providers, ensuring the effective dissemination of results. Coordinate and supervise personnel (including temporary and local), identifying human and technical resource needs, managing recruitment and performance, ensuring coherent work processes and outputs. Lead cross group activities, maximize synergies and liaise with other teams to ensure coordination of work in Lao PDR.
Perform any additional activities required to ensure the success of the work team.

Expected Results:

Successful implementation of the 42 C/5 workplan, with expected results and measurable impact on education strategy in Lao PDR and the Asia-Pacific region. This includes Regular Programme (RP) and Extrabudgetary (EXB) projects and activities.
Effective collection of Member State’ needs and coordination of the development of new project proposals aimed at resource mobilization.
Enhanced communication and collaboration between UNESCO regional offices and relevant teams in field offices, UNESCO Headquarters and UNESCO Institutes, contributing to the overall effectiveness of education programmes.
Strengthened external partnerships and expanded donor relationships, resulting in increased resource mobilization for UNESCO’s education initiatives.
Improved team cohesion and productivity within the Education Section, leading to high-quality outputs and successful Programme/Project outcomes.

Education:

• Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in education, social sciences, or a related field.

Professional Experience:

Minimum 7 years, of which at least 3 years acquired at international level, of progressively responsible relevant experience in the field of education, including experience in programme management, policy development, institutional system strengthening and capacity development.
Knowledge of the global SDG4-Education 2030 agenda including regional frameworks.
Experience in working with government counterparts, international organizations, government agencies, or NGOs.
Proven experience in resource mobilization and partnership development.

Skills and Competencies:

Strong project management skills (in line with results-based management principles), including the ability to manage budgets, timelines, and deliverables effectively.
Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.
Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to build and maintain stakeholder relationship and partnerships.
Integrity, reliability, and strong sense of commitment and responsibility.
Proficiency in standard office software (e.g., MS Office).
Knowledge of ICT in education and familiarity with UNESCO’s mandate in this area.

Languages: