Research Consultant: Second Early Grade Reading Programme

 Consultant: Early Grade Reading Programme Implementation and Evaluation

Location: Pretoria, South Africa
Division/Equivalent: Nairobi Regional (ESARO)
School/Unit: South Africa
Department/Office: Pretoria, South Africa
Categories: Education, Early Childhood Development

About UNICEF:
UNICEF is dedicated to reaching the world's most disadvantaged children, working tirelessly to save lives, defend rights, and fulfill potential. With operations spanning 190 countries and territories, UNICEF strives for every child, everywhere, every day.

Summary of Responsibilities:
This consultancy aims to provide technical support for the implementation and evaluation of the Second Early Grade Reading Programme (EGRP II) across Frances Baard and John Taolo Gaetsewe districts in Northern Cape, South Africa. The consultant will work closely with the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and UNICEF's Education Manager, contributing to project management, monitoring, research, and communication.

Key Functions/Accountabilities:

1. Project Facilitation and Monitoring (30%):

   • Coordinate project activities and communication among stakeholders.
   • Conduct routine monitoring and evaluation to ensure project compliance and progress.
   • Support stakeholder engagement and capacity building workshops.
   • Facilitate contractual obligations and address arising issues.

2. Admin and Communication (15%):

   • Manage project administration and logistics for meetings and site visits.
   • Assist in drafting progress reports and funding proposals.
   • Contribute to communication efforts, including website updates and advocacy campaigns.

3. Research, Data Cleaning, and Analysis (35%):

   • Conduct research on multigrade education approaches and interventions.
   • Analyze tablet usage and lesson plan data, producing reports for stakeholders.
   • Support data cleaning, integrity checks, and statistical analysis for evaluation reports.

4. Support Scaling up Sectoral Reading Interventions (20%):

   • Assist in developing implementation plans for scaling up the EGRP across Northern Cape.
   • Contribute to lesson plan and literacy material reviews.
   • Support evaluation efforts by providing inputs and quality assurance.

Qualifications:

• Education: University degree in Economics, Linguistics, Education, Public Administration, Development, or related fields.
• Experience: Minimum five years of relevant professional experience in linguistics, education, public administration, research, or related disciplines.
• Skills: Project management, research, data analysis, strong communication, and writing skills.
• Additional: Post-graduate qualification and fluency in English required, knowledge of local languages (Setswana, Afrikaans) considered an asset.

UNICEF Values:
Demonstrate UNICEF's values of Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, Accountability, and Sustainability.

How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their application through the UNICEF website by May 20, 2024.

Remarks:

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Consultants are not considered staff members and are responsible for tax liabilities.
• Appointments are subject to medical clearance and vaccination requirements.
• UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on misconduct and adheres to strict child safeguarding principles.

This role offers an opportunity to contribute to improving early grade reading outcomes in South Africa, ensuring every child has access to quality education. Join us in our mission to build a better world for every child.