Programme Assistant - Culture
OVERVIEW
Parent Sector : Culture Sector
Duty Station: UNESCO Windhoek office
Job Family: Culture
Type of contract : Service Contract
Grade : Level SC 4
Duration of contract : 1 year (extension possible subject to satisfactory performance and funding)
Application Deadline (Midnight Windhoek Time) : 11 March 2025
UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism
OVERVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE POST
The UNESCO Culture Sector aims to promote culture and the creative economy and safeguard cultural and natural heritage in response to the global challenges addressed by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, as well as conflicts, disasters and emergencies, by implementing the six UNESCO Culture Conventions and the recommendations associated with them, and supporting Member States in translating their provisions into national policies and strategies. Activities conducted will contribute to implementation of the UNESCO Country Strategy for Namibia 2025-2029, Namibia’s National Development Plan (NDP), the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) in Namibia, 2025-2029, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the African Union Agenda 2063.
Job Roles and Responsibilities
Under the direct supervision of the National Programme Officer for Culture, and the overall leadership of the Head of Office and UNESCO Representative to Namibia, the main tasks and responsibilities include:
- Support planning, implementation, evaluation, and reporting of Culture Sector activities.
- Maintain relationships with national and regional partners, including arts and culture organizations, private sector entities, and communities.
- Provide technical and administrative assistance for UNESCO-supported programs and Voluntary Contribution projects.
- Draft reports, correspondence, project proposals, work plans, and strategy documents.
- Support management of project budgets, monitoring expenditures, and preparing financial statements.
- Contribute content for UNESCO’s website, newsletter, and reports to enhance visibility.
- Support UN Programme Coordination Groups, participate in sector and technical working groups, and ensure follow-ups.
- Support intersectoral collaboration.
COMPETENCIES (Core / Managerial)
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REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
- Bachelor degree or advanced University Degree (Masters or equivalent) preferably in the field of culture, heritage conservation and management, or a related field.
Work Experience:
- At least two years of relevant work experience the field of culture.
- Experience acquired in the agencies of the UN system will be considered as an advantage.
Skills and Competencies:
- Good written and oral communication skills, human relations and team building.
- Ability to interact with people from different disciplines, and with varying degrees of technical experience.
Language skills:
- Fluency (oral and written) skills in English.
BENEFITS AND ENTITLEMENTS
UNESCO’s salaries consist of a basic salary and other benefits which may include if applicable: 30 days annual leave, medical insurance, pension plan etc.
Salary is calculated according to the UN salary scale for Locally Recruited Staff.
SELECTION AND RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the UNESCO careers website. No modifications can be made to the application submitted.
The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, and may include tests and/or assessments, as well as a competency-based interview.
UNESCO uses communication technologies such as video or teleconference, e-mail correspondence, etc. for the assessment and evaluation of candidates.
Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted and candidates in the final selection step will be subject to reference checks based on the information provided.
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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 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. Individuals 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. Worldwide mobility is required for staff members appointed to international posts.
UNESCO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.