Learning and Skills Officer

Job Title: Learning and Skills Officer, Generation Unlimited

Organization: United Nations Volunteers (UNV)

Host entity: UNICEF

Assignment country: India

Expected start date: 21/08/2023

Sustainable Development Goal: 4. Quality education

Volunteer category: National UN Youth Volunteer

Type: Onsite

Duration: 12 months (with possibility of extension)

Number of assignments: 1

Duty stations: New Delhi

Details

Mission and objectives

The fundamental mission of UNICEF is to promote the rights of every child, everywhere, in everything the organization does — in programs, in advocacy and in operations. The equity strategy, emphasizing the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families, translates this commitment to children’s rights into action. For UNICEF, equity means that all children have an opportunity to survive, develop and reach their full potential, without discrimination, bias or favoritism. To the degree that any child has an unequal chance in life — in its social, political, economic, civic and cultural dimensions — her or his rights are violated. There is growing evidence that investing in the health, education and protection of a society’s most disadvantaged citizens — addressing inequity — not only will give all children the opportunity to fulfill their potential but also will lead to sustained growth and stability of countries. This is why the focus on equity is so vital. It accelerates progress towards realizing the human rights of all children, which is the universal mandate of UNICEF, as outlined by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, while also supporting the equitable development of nations.

Context

In recent years, UNICEF’s work to support the unique needs of young people has gained momentum, as the challenges facing them have come more sharply into view. UNICEF is committed to deliver for all children and young people through its overall impact goal of ‘realizing the rights of every child, especially the most disadvantaged. Building on the current work with, and for, adolescents, in line with the United Nations Youth Strategy, UNICEF is developing a new global partnership, Generation Unlimited (GenU), which is dedicated to expanding opportunity for young people from ages 10 to 24 years. Maximising the potential of the United Nations system, Governments, Civil Society Organizations and the private sector, and of young people themselves, GenU is focused on finding new ways to ensure that every young person is in school, undergoing formal or informal learning or training, or is employed by 2030. The focus will be on reaching those in the greatest danger of being left behind: including girls, the poor, young people with disabilities or on the move, or affected by conflict and natural disasters. The India version of GenU has been named YuWaah. It signifies catalytic partnerships to unleash the potential of adolescents and young people. YuWaah has been designed to allow co-creation of solutions that are relevant and scalable for ensuring that young people in India have opportunity and choices for learning; have avenues and spaces for functional and vocational training and can choose between employment and entrepreneurship which are accessible locally. Out of the three pillars under GenU/YuWaah, Pillar 2 involves skills for life and livelihood and the future of work for young people in and out of school. This pillar specifically involves: 1. Enabling career guidance solutions – online and offline 2. Facilitating access to 21st century skills (life skills, financial, digital skills etc.) to bring greater focus on 21st Century skills; bring together stakeholders and collaboratives to arrive at a common definition for these skills, identify and scale impactful delivery models; collate and curate content and curriculum for 21st century skills; and measurement of impact of 21st century skill interventions.

Task description

Within the delegated authority and under the supervision and guidance of Chief of Generation Unlimited India and secondary reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, YuWaah or designated mandated representative(s), the NUNV Learning and skills officer will: I) Assist work related to “Skills for life and livelihood for young people in-school and out of school” • Provide support on planning, implementation and monitoring of YuWaah Pillar 2 (skills for life • and livelihoods) activities on skilling and learning opportunities, in collaboration with 21st century • skills related collaboratives, stakeholders from government, civil society and private sector; and • global GenU partner. • Provide support on planning, implementation and monitoring of career guidance initiatives, in • collaboration with other YuWaah teams, UNICEF colleagues, young people, service providers • and partners across govt, private and CSO network. • Design a system for managing recommendations, suggestions and challenges from the field and partners • Enable creation and maintenance an active network of field colleagues, civil society organizations and partners through regular interactions (calls and meetings) • Support in regular project tracking as per the signed agreements to generate evidence on partner contributions. • Support in monitoring and concluding partnerships, including partner management, • documentation in UNICEF formats. • Any other related tasks as may be required or assigned by the supervisor. II) Support Innovation • Support in identification and finalization of innovative, scalable solutions related to the thematic • area • Apply/introduce innovative approaches to enhance career guidance, promotion of 21st century skills especially around entrepreneurial skills, for the delivery of sustainable results at scale • Research and suggest on best international practices, especially on digital solutions, as well as solution to reach more marginalized audiences, for possible adaption in India III) Knowledge Management • Contribute to development and dissemination of newsletters, documentation of meetings • Develop/collect case studies and human-interest stories from partners • Prepare weekly and monthly status updates on pillar 2 activities • Contribute to regional and global bulletins as requested IV) Advocacy and Communications - report and proposal writing • Contribute to the planning and review of the GenU/YuWaah annual work plans and other strategic and programme documents • Support in preparing public advocacy material, programme and project status reports • Assist in drafting briefing notes, talking points, funding proposals, presentations and donor reports • Any other related tasks as may be required or assigned by the supervisor. Furthermore, UN Volunteers are encouraged to integrate the UN Volunteers programme mandate within their assignment and promote voluntary action through engagement with communities in the course of their work. As such, UN Volunteers should dedicate a part of their working time to some of the following suggested activities: • Strengthen their knowledge and understanding of the concept of volunteerism by reading relevant UNV and external publications and take active part in UNV activities (for instance in events that mark International Volunteer Day); • Be acquainted with and build on traditional and/or local forms of volunteerism in the host country; • Provide annual and end of assignment self-reports on UN Volunteer actions, results and opportunities. • Contribute articles/write-ups on field experiences and submit them for UNV publications/websites, newsletters, press releases, etc.; • Assist with the UNV Buddy Programme for newly-arrived UN Volunteers; • Promote or advise local groups in the use of online volunteering or encourage relevant local individuals and organizations to use the UNV Online Volunteering service whenever technically possible. Results/expected outputs: As an active UNICEF India team member, efficient, timely, responsive, client-friendly and high quality support rendered to UNICEF India and its beneficiaries in the accomplishment of her/his functions, including: • Innovative and scalable solutions available for investments and scale up under pillar 2 thematic area • Improved monitoring systems and advocacy for GenU/YuWaah pillar 2 thematic area: Robust database on relevant indicators around pillar 2, recommendations and challenges in implementing programmes available • Data, case studies and human-interest stories available to promote evidence-based best practices in the area of skills for life and livelihoods • Evidence available to influence policy to strengthen areas of life skills, career guidance and flexible learning • Enhanced participation of State offices, UN agencies, partner organization and young people regularly in GenU/YuWaah initiatives on skills for life and livelihoods for young people • Best practices in skills for life and livelihood integrated into annual work plans, reports, fundraising proposals, monitoring and evaluation • Age, Gender and Diversity (AGD) perspective is systematically applied, integrated and documented in all activities throughout the assignment • A final statement of achievements towards volunteerism for peace and development during the assignment, such as reporting on the number of volunteers mobilized, activities participated in and capacities developed

Eligibility criteria

Age

18 - 26

Nationality

Candidate must be a national or legal resident of the country of assignment.

Requirements

Required experience

1 years of experience in programme/project planning and implementation, with a particular emphasis on education, skilling/training and equity at national and / or international levels. Practical experience in research and gender equity is preferred • Proven ability to monitor evaluate and report on programmes in the areas indicated above. • Ability to develop partnerships and to network in the areas of education, skills, youth engagement and employment. • Knowledge and interest in the latest developments and technology in education and skilling fields. • Analytical skills – with data analytical skills as preferable not mandated. • Excellent oral and written skills; excellent drafting, formulation, reporting skills. Accuracy and professionalism in document production and editing is necessary. • Excellent interpersonal skills; culturally and socially sensitive; ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with a range of partners, including grassroots community members, religious and youth organizations, and authorities at different levels; familiarity with tools and approaches of communications for development; • Ability to work and adapt professionally and effectively in a dynamic, start-up like environment; • Solid overall computer literacy, including proficiency in various MS Office applications (Excel, Word, etc.) and email/internet; familiarity with database management; and office technology equipment; Self-motivated, ability to work with minimum supervision; ability to work with tight deadlines.

Area(s) of expertise

Education, Volunteer management, Development programmes

Driving license

-

Languages

English, Level: Fluent, Required

Required education level

Bachelor degree or equivalent in Social Science, Education or any other relevant field. Current knowledge of inclusive, quality and complementary education or skilling/training programmes.

Competencies and values

• Professionalism: demonstrated understanding of operations relevant to UNICEF; technical capabilities or knowledge relevant or transferrable to UNICEF procedures and rules; discretion, political sensitivity, diplomacy and tact to deal with clients; ability to apply good judgement; ability to liaise and coordinate with a range of different actors, especially in senior positions; where appropriate, high degree of autonomy, personal initiative and ability to take ownership; resourcefulness and willingness to accept wide responsibilities and ability to work independently under established procedures; ability to manage information objectively, accurately and confidentially; responsive and client-oriented; • Integrity: demonstrate the values and ethical standards of the UN and UNICEF in daily activities and behaviors while acting without consideration of personal gains; resist undue political pressure in decision-making; stand by decisions that are in the organization’s interest even if they are unpopular; take prompt action in cases of unprofessional or unethical behavior; does not abuse power or authority; • Teamwork and respect for diversity: ability to operate effectively across organizational boundaries; excellent interpersonal skills; ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and harmonious working relations in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic, mixed-gender environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity; sensitivity and adaptability to culture, gender, religion, nationality and age; commitment to implementing the goal of gender equality by ensuring the equal participation and full involvement of women and men in all aspects of UN operations; ability to achieve common goals and provide guidance or training to colleagues; • Commitment to continuous learning: initiative and willingness to learn new skills and stay abreast of new developments in area of expertise; ability to adapt to changes in work environment. • Planning and organizing: effective organizational and problem-solving skills and ability to manage a large volume of work in an efficient and timely manner; ability to establish priorities and to plan, coordinate and monitor (own) work; ability to work under pressure, with conflicting deadlines, and to handle multiple concurrent projects/activities; • Communication: proven interpersonal skills; good spoken and written communication skills, including ability to prepare clear and concise reports; ability to conduct presentations, articulate options and positions concisely; ability to make and defend recommendations; ability to communicate and empathize with staff (including national staff), military personnel, volunteers, counterparts and local interlocutors coming from very diverse backgrounds; capacity to transfer information and knowledge to a wide range of different target groups; • Flexibility: adaptability and ability to live and work in potentially hazardous and remote conditions, involving physical hardship and little comfort; to operate independently in austere environments for protracted periods; willingness to travel within the area of operations and to transfer to other duty stations within the area of operations as necessary; • Genuine commitment towards the principles of voluntary engagement, which includes solidarity, compassion, reciprocity and self-reliance; and commitment towards UNICEF’s mission and vision, as well as to the UN Core Values.

Other information

Living conditions and remarks

New Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region is a large and bustling metropolis of some 14 million people undergoing rapid changes. The capital city is an administrative, cultural and commercial center with modern amenities and well connected by air. It is a safe place with large expatriate community drawn from embassies, UN agencies, MNCs and foreign businesses. It has short moderate winter and long hot summer. As this is a national UN Volunteer assignment, the UN Volunteer will be responsible for arranging his/her own housing and other living essentials. This position is based in New Delhi. National UN Volunteers are part of the malicious insurance plan. National UN Volunteers are expected to be culturally sensitive and adjust to the prevailing culture and traditions. Conditions of Service for national UN Volunteers The contract lasts for the period indicated above with possibility of extensions subject to availability of funding, operational necessity and satisfactory performance. However, there is no expectation of renewal of the assignment. The applicable Volunteer Living Allowance is provided monthly to cover housing, utilities and normal cost of living expenses. Life, health and permanent disability insurance are included (health insurance for up to 3 dependents - except for UN Community Volunteers), as well as final repatriation (if applicable). You can check full entitlements at https://app.unv.org/calculator . For information specific to this assignment, please see below: • Monthly Voluntary Living Allowance (VLA): INR 40,483 • Entry lump sum (one time payment) : USD 400 (equivalent in INR) • Travel ticket when moving to duty station (if applicable): USD 200 • Exit allowance: 1 VLA/12 months • Medical and life insurance Cigna Private Insurance Leave entitlements: • Annual leave : 2.5 days accrued per calendar month • Certified sick leave: 30 days • Uncertified sick leave: 7 days • Learning leave: 10 working days per consecutive 12 months • Maternity leave: 16 weeks • Paternity leaves: 10 days In addition to duty station specific vaccine requirements, appointments are subject to confirmation of fully vaccinated status against SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) with a World Health Organization (WHO)-endorsed vaccine, which must be met prior to taking up the appointment. It does not apply to UN Volunteers who will work remotely and are not expected to work on or visit UNICEF premises, programme delivery locations or directly interact with communities UNICEF works with, nor to travel to perform functions for UNICEF for the duration of their contracts. UNICEF offers reasonable accommodation for UN Volunteers with disabilities. This may include, for example, accessible software, travel assistance for missions or personal attendants. We encourage you to disclose your disability during your application in case you need reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process and afterwards in your assignment.

Inclusivity statement

United Nations Volunteers is an equal opportunity programme that welcomes applications from qualified professionals. We are committed to achieving diversity in terms of gender, care protected characteristics. As part of their adherence to the values of UNV, all UN Volunteers commit themselves to combat any form of discrimination, and to promoting respect for human rights and individual dignity, without distinction of a person’s race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status.

Reasonable accommodation

UNICEF offers reasonable accommodation for UN Volunteers with disabilities. This may include, for example, accessible software, travel assistance for missions or personal attendants. We encourage you to disclose your disability during your application in case you need reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process and afterwards in your assignment.

Note on Covid-19 vaccination requirements

In addition to duty station-specific vaccine requirements, appointments are subject to confirmation of fully-vaccinated status against SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) with a World Health Organization (WHO)-endorsed vaccine, which must be met prior to taking up the appointment. It does not apply to UN Volunteers who will work remotely and are not expected to work on or visit UNICEF premises, programme delivery locations or directly interact with communities UNICEF works with, nor to travel to perform functions for UNICEF for the duration of their contracts.

Apply Now