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National Project Officer (Digital Transformation in Education)

OVERVIEW

Position Number: 3JMED 0003PA

Grade: NO-C

Parent Sector: Education Sector (ED)

Duty Station: Kingston

Job Family: Education

Contract Type: Project Appointment

Duration of contract: 1 year

Recruitment open to: Internal and external candidates

Application deadline (Midnight Paris Time): 01/05/2026

UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism

Duration of contract is 1 year with possibility of extension subject to availability of funds and satisfactory performance.

INSTRUCTIONS

Only nationals of Jamaica may apply to this position.

ORGANIZATIONAL CONTEXT

Jamaica is one of the thirteen countries worldwide which were selected and will benefit from the first SDG Fund Window on Digital Transformation. The Joint Programme, “Empowering Jamaica’s Future: SDG Joint Programme on Digital Transformation for Education” is a 3-year programme (2024-2027) and will be implemented jointly by UNICEF (lead agency), UNESCO, the World Food Programme (WFP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). It will support the modernization and integration of the Education Management Information System (EMIS) by developing an OPEN-EMIS platform. This platform will enhance data collection, reporting, and utilization, thereby improving education delivery and driving transformative changes through existing digital solutions.
The Joint Programme will serve as a catalyst to advance digitalization in the education sector and address several challenges. It will focus on targeting the interconnections among good educational outcomes, data driven decision-making as well as improved food and nutrition security. By leveraging the synergies among key transitions, education, food systems, digital connectivity and social protection the JP aims to unlock a multiplier effect towards the overall impact: A digitally transformed education system, enhancing educational outcomes, teacher engagement and wellbeing and a decrease in malnutrition in primary aged children. Five SDG targets focused on “Zero Hunger” and “Quality Education” are addressed by the JP.

UNESCO’s contribution to this Joint Programme focuses on teachers. Teachers are essential to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 4) which is about ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all by 2030. In the ever-evolving landscape of education, the effective management and engagement of teachers play a pivotal role in ensuring the delivery of high-quality learning experiences. Central to this endeavor is the harnessing of better and timely data to inform the decision-making processes and enhance the support mechanisms for educators. By optimizing teacher deployment, personalizing professional development, and promoting collaboration through data-driven insights, the aim of UNESCO’s component in the Joint Programme is to highlight the transformative potential of leveraging data to empower and uplift the teaching workforce.

More specifically, UNESCO will work to enhance data governance and interoperability of digital systems within the Ministry of Education and Youth Jamaica, boosting its ability to utilize real-time data for policymaking and monitoring, thus improving teacher management, engagement, and well-being. This includes:
1. Developing national standards to strengthen governance and institutional framework of the education management information system (EMIS), leading to improved decision-making, transparency, and accountability.
2. Improving the existing data warehouse to streamline data use and enhance data reporting capacities for education stakeholders.
3. Enhancing teacher management through improved human resource digital solutions and tools, addressing the current teacher crisis and promoting equitable deployment and professional development.
The Joint Programme (JP) aligns with Jamaica's national development planning and implementation framework, corresponding to government priorities as included in the Medium-Term Socio-economic Policy Framework 2021–2024 under Vision 2030 Jamaica.

OVERVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE POST

Under the authority of the Director of the UNESCO Office for the Caribbean, the direct supervision of the Senior Education Specialist and in close consultation with the National Education Officer, the National Project Officer (Digital Transformation) will lead the programming, execution, monitoring, and reporting of results of the UNESCO-led component of the Joint Programme. In doing so, the National Project Officer will also work in close collaboration with the Office of the Resident Coordinator, the secretariat of the SDG Fund, and the other participating UN Organizations (PUNOs). Summary of the key functions, accountabilities, and related duties or tasks include:
1. Coordinating the organization and implementation of the UNESCO’s component of the Joint Program’s activities.
2. Coordinating stakeholder consultation
3. Managing and maintaining of the project logistics and financial resources.
4. Coordinating the monitoring, evaluation, and knowledge management activities of the UNESCO’s led component of the Joint Program.
5. Collecting information, producing and disseminating reports and documents as required, including donor reports.
6. Providing substantive support to the implementation of communication and advocacy strategies as related to the UNESCO-led component of the Joint Programme.

Long Description

KEY ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Specifically, the National Project Officer Project Manager will undertake the following key duties and responsibilities towards the effective and efficient management of the UNESCO-led project:

1. Coordinate the organization and implementation of all actions and activities:

Coordinate the timely implementation of activities related to the project.
Ensure adequate resources, including funding, personnel, and technology, are allocated for each key action.
Ensure coordination with key national counterparts.
Coordinate arrangements for consultation, capacity strengthening and other engagements.
Assist in administrative and financial matters required for the project.
Identify and monitor risks throughout the project lifecycle and adjust plans accordingly.

2. Coordinating stakeholder consultation:

Plan and conduct stakeholder consultations and meetings with MoEY and other related agencies managing teacher data.
Facilitate dialogue and gather stakeholder input.
Document and report on consultation outcomes.
Integrate stakeholder feedback into project planning and implementation

3. Managing and maintaining of the projects logistics and financial resources:

Monitor and manage the project budget and expenditures.
Coordinate procurement and logistical arrangements.
Maintain financial records and prepare financial reports.
Ensure compliance with financial policies and regulations.

4. Coordinating the monitoring, evaluation, and knowledge management activities:

Develop and implement M&E frameworks and tools.
Collect and analyze data to assess project performance.
Compile and disseminate evaluation reports and findings.
Facilitate knowledge sharing and lessons learned.

Long Description

5. Collecting information, producing and disseminating reports and documents as required, including donor reports:

Prepare, maintain, and update files (electronic) and internal databases.
Prepare periodic reports and documents on project activities as per project requirements.
Ensure timely submission of donor reports.

6. Providing substantive support to the implementation of communication and advocacy strategies as related to the UNESCO-led component of the Joint Programme.

Liaise with organizational units and ensure regular coordination for daily activities and communication with UNESCO Kingston Office and HQs, to deliver results.
Draft correspondence, and communications related to various aspects of the programme administration, including workplan and budgets, revisions and other related issues, as well as prepare unit contributions for a variety of periodic reports.
Prepare briefs as necessary on the project, its outcomes, and achievements for the participating UN agencies, UNESCO stakeholders, and the general public.
Ensure timely availability and access to all programme documents for technical stateholders and other entities.
Collaborate with the UNESCO Office for the Caribbean Communications Officer for timely dissemination of news on UNESCO website and news-media, where applicable.
Ensure all publications are distributed and disseminated to relevant institutions.

7. Communicating successes and new developments to Government stakeholders, key donor partners and actively brief them on opportunities for cooperation

Provide regular updates and briefings on project progress.
Identify and communicate opportunities for collaboration.

Long Description

COMPETENCIES - Core (C) & Managerial (M)

Communication (C)
Accountability (C)
Innovation (C)
Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement (C)
Planning and organizing (C)
Results focus (C)
Teamwork (C)
Professionalism (C)
Building partnerships (M)
Driving and managing change (M)
Strategic thinking (M)
Making quality decisions (M)
Managing performance (M)
Leading and empowering others (M)

Short Description

For detailed information, please consult the UNESCO Competency Framework.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

An advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) from an accredited institution is required, preferably in Education, Information Technology, or a closely related field.

WORK EXPERIENCE

At least 4 years of relevant work experience in coordinating programs and projects or developing initiatives, including experience in planning, budgeting, implementation, monitoring, and reporting processes of development programs and projects is required.
Experience in managing and implementing software development related projects, especially in communication and collaboration with technical teams and service providers will be an asset.
Experience in stakeholder engagement, in ensuring effective communication, collaboration, and relationship-building with relevant parties throughout project lifecycles.
Experience in developing and Implementing UN Joint Programs will be an asset.
Professional technical knowledge and expertise in international development and project management.

Long Description

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

Integrity, reliability and sense of commitment in the execution of duties.
Excellent coordination and organizational skills.
Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
Good knowledge of results-based and budget management tools.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to draft clearly and concisely.
Ability to work effectively in a team and to maintain effective working relationships in a multicultural environment. - Ability to build and maintain partnerships.
Ability to manage heavy workload and to meet tight deadlines, paying close attention to details and quality of work. - Strong IT skills including knowledge of standard office software.
Ability to work in diverse multi-cultural settings with sensitivity to the local context.

LANGUAGES

Excellent knowledge of English ( written and spoken).

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

Training in project management or certification; to include knowledge in change management methodologies for navigating organizational changes, overcoming resistance, and ensuring successful adoption of new systems and processes will be an asset.
An educational background in Education Policy and Management to effectively navigating the complexities of the education sector, understanding stakeholder needs, and aligning project goals with broader educational objectives will be an asset.

Long Description

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

Knowledge of UNESCOs mission, C/4 and C/5 strategies.

BENEFITS AND ENTITLEMENTS

UNESCO’s salaries consist of a basic salary and other benefits which may include if applicable: 30 days annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, pension plan etc.

The approximate annual starting salary for this post is 8 640 538 JMD.

For full information on benefits and entitlements, please consult our Guide to Staff Benefits.

SELECTION AND HIRING PROCESS

Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information, by the above deadline.

To apply, please visit the UNESCO Careers website. No modifications can be made to the application once submitted.

The process may include pre-recorded video interviews and/or written assessments, interviews with a Panel, as well as reference checks. In addition, candidates may be requested to provide additional information which may be pertinent to the position’s qualifications.

Please note that all candidates, whether selected or not, will be informed of the outcome of their application in due course.

Short-listed candidates may also be added to Talent Pools; subject to their consent (i.e. Data Privacy Statement).

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

UNESCO recalls that paramount consideration in the appointment of staff members shall be the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence and integrity.
UNESCO applies to a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment.
UNESCO is committed to achieving and sustaining equitable and diverse geographical distribution, as well as gender parity among its staff members in all categories and at all grades. Furthermore, UNESCO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Candidates from non- and under-represented Member States (last update here) are particularly welcome and strongly encouraged to apply.
lndividuals from minority groups and indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply.
All applications will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality.
Geographical mobility is required for staff members appointed to UNESCO’s international posts.
In the event that your candidature is retained for an interview, you will be required to provide, in advance, a scanned copy of the degree(s)/diploma(s)/certificate(s) required for this position. UNESCO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO. The list can be accessed through the link: https://www.whed.net
The statutory retirement age at UNESCO is 65 years.
UNESCO appointments are subject to medical clearance.  Issuance of a visa by the host country of the duty station, which will be facilitated by the Organization, is required for International Professional positions.
UNESCO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.

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