2 Consultant(e)s Nationa(ux)les en appui au Programme Education : Assistance technique à la mise en oeuvre des Programmes du GPE, Office-based + travel , region Sofia and MENABE #593408

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: 2 Consultant(e)s Nationa(ux)les en appui au Programme Education : Assistance technique à la mise en oeuvre des Programmes du GPE, Office-based + travel, region Sofia and MENABE #593408

Company: UNICEF

Location: Madagascar

Job Type: Contract

Category: Operations - Program Support & Technical Assistance (Education Sector)

Date Posted: 2026-06-01T00:00:00

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: On-site (Office-based + travel)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role involves providing critical technical assistance to the Ministry of National Education (MEN) in Madagascar, focusing on the strategic implementation and operational oversight of GPE (Global Partnership for Education) programs.

• Key responsibilities include supporting the planning, coordination, execution, and monitoring of educational interventions within the Sofia and Menabe regions, directly impacting the effectiveness of the PITAF and MLT programs.

• The position demands a strong understanding of educational systems at both national and regional levels, with an emphasis on capacity building for local education authorities and stakeholders.

• Success in this role hinges on robust analytical skills, effective stakeholder engagement, and a proven ability to manage and track progress in complex program environments, particularly within the education sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is framed as a consultancy, emphasizing project-based support and technical expertise rather than a permanent staff position. The focus on "assistance technique" and specific program names (GPE, PITAF, MLT) indicates a need for practical, hands-on experience in program implementation and stakeholder management within the education domain. The "Office-based + travel" requirement highlights the need for on-the-ground engagement and logistical planning.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide direct technical assistance to the Ministry of National Education (MEN) at regional levels (Sofia and Menabe) for the planning, coordination, implementation, and monitoring of PITAF and MLT programs.

• Support the development and execution of strategies aimed at enhancing teacher competencies, improving the quality and effectiveness of learning time, and optimizing learning conditions for students in primary and lower secondary education.

• Conduct regular field visits to assess program progress, identify challenges, and provide on-site support to decentralized education structures (DREN, CISCO, ZAP).

• Facilitate capacity-building initiatives for MEN teams at regional and local levels, focusing on program management, data analysis, quality assurance, and financial oversight.

• Contribute to the effective collection, analysis, and reporting of data related to program performance, educational outcomes, and stakeholder engagement.

• Collaborate with various stakeholders, including government officials, technical and financial partners, civil society organizations, and community representatives, to ensure cohesive program delivery.

• Support the integration of cross-cutting themes such as WASH, school health and nutrition, child protection, and gender equality within educational interventions.

• Assist in the preparedness, response, and monitoring of educational sector emergencies, including natural disasters and health crises.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are detailed and cover the full program lifecycle from planning to monitoring and evaluation, with a strong emphasis on technical support and capacity building. Specific mention of DREN, CISCO, ZAP, and FEFFI indicates a need for familiarity with Madagascar's decentralized education administration. The inclusion of cross-cutting themes and emergency response highlights the multifaceted nature of UNICEF's operational support.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in Education, Social Sciences, Economics, Development Management, or a closely related field.

Experience: Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in the education or social sectors within Madagascar, with a focus on program planning, coordination, implementation support, data management, and financial quality assurance at national or regional levels.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience working with, collaborating with, or providing technical support to decentralized government education structures (DREN/CISCO/ZAP) in Madagascar.

• Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders, including government ministries, technical and financial partners (TFPs), civil society organizations, and direct/indirect beneficiaries (children, adolescents, teachers, communities, FEFFI).

• Strong proficiency in data collection, statistical analysis, field coordination, and monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of educational initiatives at national or regional levels.

• Excellent command of common office productivity software: Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

• Fluency in both French and Malagasy (oral and written) is essential for effective communication and program delivery.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior work experience within a United Nations organization.

• Experience in multisectoral support within the education sector, including WASH, school health and nutrition, child protection, and behavior change communication.

• Strong knowledge of UNICEF's priority intervention areas in education, such as:

  • Strengthening FEFFI for learning support.
  • Remedial education through TaRL (Teaching at the Right Level).
  • Initial and continuous teacher training.
  • Pedagogical supervision and coaching for teachers.
  • Rehabilitation/construction of educational infrastructure.
  • Reintegration/integration of out-of-school children and adolescents.
  • Prevention and combating of gender-based discrimination and inclusion challenges in schools.
  • Preparedness, response, and M&E of emergencies affecting the education sector (cyclones, drought, floods, contagious diseases like Mpox, etc.).

• Good command of the English language (oral and written).

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements are specific and reflect the operational realities of working in Madagascar's education sector. The emphasis on local context, specific educational interventions (TaRL, FEFFI), and decentralized structures is crucial. The preference for UN experience and English proficiency points to the global nature of UNICEF's operations and reporting standards. The requirement for personal transport and regional residency underscores the field-intensive nature of the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase evidence of successful program planning and coordination for educational initiatives, demonstrating an understanding of project lifecycles and stakeholder alignment.

• Provide examples of data analysis and M&E frameworks implemented to track educational program performance, highlighting key metrics and insights derived.

• Include documentation or case studies detailing technical assistance provided to government ministries or local education authorities, illustrating problem-solving and capacity-building approaches.

Process Documentation:

• Detail your experience in designing and optimizing educational program workflows, from initial planning phases to implementation and ongoing monitoring.

• Illustrate your methods for implementing and automating processes within educational projects, particularly those involving data management, reporting, or stakeholder communication.

• Demonstrate your approach to measuring and analyzing the performance of educational initiatives, including the use of data to inform decision-making and drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested, the "Minimum requirements" and "Skills" sections imply a need for candidates to demonstrate practical experience in program management, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement. The portfolio requirements are inferred to highlight these practical skill sets through case studies and examples of past work, particularly in the context of education program implementation and technical assistance.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a consultancy role with UNICEF, compensation is typically determined based on established UN consultant rates, which are dependent on the consultant's qualifications, experience, and the complexity of the assignment. A specific salary range is not provided, but rates are generally competitive within the international development sector for similar roles in Madagascar.

• Methodology: This estimate is based on typical UNICEF consultancy fee structures, which align with UN salary scales for internationally recruited consultants and national consultants, taking into account the Master's degree requirement and 5+ years of experience. The local cost of living in Sofia and Menabe regions of Madagascar would also be a factor in determining the final fee.

Benefits:

• Contract Duration: 12 months, offering a defined period of engagement.

• Work Environment: Access to a professional and supportive work environment within UNICEF Madagascar.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for on-the-job learning and exposure to UNICEF's global operations and educational best practices.

• Travel Opportunities: Involves travel within the Sofia and Menabe regions, providing field experience.

• Comprehensive Compensation Package: Reflecting the value of the services provided, aligned with UN standards.

Working Hours: This is an office-based role with significant travel requirements. Standard working hours are expected to align with UNICEF's operational schedule in Madagascar, typically around 40 hours per week, with flexibility required to meet program demands and travel schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: Specific salary figures are not provided, which is common for consultancy roles. The compensation is expected to be based on UN consultant scales. Benefits are implied through the nature of working with a UN agency, focusing on professional development, travel, and a structured contract. The working hours are assumed to be standard but flexible due to travel and program needs.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: International Development / Humanitarian Aid / Child Welfare. UNICEF operates globally to advocate for the rights of children and meet their basic needs.

Company Size: UNICEF is a large, global organization with tens of thousands of employees and consultants worldwide, operating in over 190 countries and territories. This scale implies robust organizational structures, established policies, and a diverse workforce.

Founded: UNICEF was founded in 1946, giving it a long history and extensive experience in child-focused development and humanitarian work. This legacy suggests a culture grounded in long-term commitment, evidence-based practices, and a deep understanding of global child welfare challenges.

Team Structure:

• The role supports the Ministry of National Education (MEN) in Madagascar, working closely with regional education offices (DREN, CISCO, ZAP) and potentially other government entities and development partners.

• The consultant will likely be part of a UNICEF Madagascar country office team, possibly within the Education section, collaborating with program officers, specialists, and other technical staff.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making and evidence-based program implementation are core to UNICEF's operations.

• Focus on partnerships and collaboration with national governments and local authorities to ensure sustainability and national ownership of programs.

• Emphasis on capacity building and knowledge transfer to empower local institutions and communities.

• Application of a rights-based approach to programming, ensuring all interventions are aligned with children's rights.

Company Website: https://www.unicef.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of UNICEF emphasizes its global mission, commitment to children's rights, and diverse workforce. The role's direct engagement with the Ministry of National Education highlights a collaborative, partnership-driven approach, common in UN agency operations. The company size and history suggest a structured environment with established operational protocols.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a National Consultant, typically an intermediate to senior level within the operations and program support domain. It requires specialized knowledge in education sector programming and technical assistance, with a focus on implementation and stakeholder management at a regional level.

Reporting Structure: The consultant will report to a designated UNICEF Program Officer or Manager within the Education section of the UNICEF Madagascar Country Office. They will also work closely with and provide support to regional education authorities (MEN representatives, DREN, CISCO).

Operations Impact: The consultant's work directly influences the effectiveness and efficiency of GPE-funded educational programs in the Sofia and Menabe regions. Their technical assistance and capacity-building efforts are crucial for improving learning outcomes, teacher quality, and educational access for children and adolescents in these areas, contributing significantly to UNICEF's mandate.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of education programming, such as teacher training, learning assessment, or education in emergencies, through practical application and exposure to UNICEF's global strategies.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain experience working with other UNICEF program sectors (WASH, Health, Child Protection), understanding integrated approaches to child development and well-being.

• Network Building: Develop a strong professional network within Madagascar's education sector, including government officials, international development partners, and civil society organizations.

• Future Consultancies/Roles: Successful performance may lead to further consultancy opportunities with UNICEF or other UN agencies, or potentially pave the way for national staff positions within UNICEF or related organizations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is framed as a consultancy, offering significant on-the-ground experience in a critical sector. Growth opportunities are focused on practical skill development, sector specialization, and professional networking within the international development community.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Office-based within the Sofia or Menabe region of Madagascar, requiring the consultant to be located in the regional headquarters or willing to relocate. This implies a standard office setting with access to necessary resources for program coordination and administrative tasks.

Office Location(s): The role is specifically designated for the regions of Sofia and Menabe in Madagascar. The consultant will be office-based in the chief town of one of these regions, with significant travel expected within these regions.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will involve a combination of office-based work for planning, reporting, and coordination, and extensive field travel to educational facilities, local administration offices, and community sites within the assigned regions.

• Access to standard office equipment and potentially shared workspaces within a UNICEF or government office environment.

• Opportunities for interaction with UNICEF country office staff, Ministry of Education officials at various levels, teachers, community leaders, and children.

Work Schedule: The consultant is expected to adhere to a standard work schedule, typically around 40 hours per week, aligning with UNICEF and local government operational hours. However, the nature of field travel and program implementation may necessitate flexibility, including occasional work outside standard hours or during weekends, especially during critical program phases or emergency responses.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is clearly defined as field-oriented, requiring presence in specific regions of Madagascar and significant travel. This emphasizes the need for adaptability and a willingness to engage directly with local communities and educational institutions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Applications will be screened based on the minimum requirements, CV, and cover letter.

• Technical Assessment/Written Exercise: Shortlisted candidates may be required to complete a technical assessment or written exercise related to educational program planning, analysis, or problem-solving relevant to the role's responsibilities.

• Interview: Candidates will undergo one or more interviews, likely with UNICEF Education section staff and potentially a representative from the Ministry of National Education. This will assess technical expertise, experience, communication skills, and cultural fit.

• Reference Checks: Professional references will be contacted for all final candidates.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Relevant Experience: Select examples from your CV and cover letter that directly demonstrate your experience in educational program implementation, technical assistance to government bodies, data analysis in the education sector, and stakeholder engagement in Madagascar.

• Highlight Impact: For each example, clearly articulate the challenge, your specific role and actions, and the measurable outcomes or impact achieved. Quantify results whenever possible (e.g., number of teachers trained, improvement in learning scores, efficiency gains in program delivery).

• Demonstrate Contextual Understanding: Showcase your understanding of the Malagasy education system, including its decentralized structures and specific challenges. Reference your experience with specific programs or initiatives if applicable.

• Emphasize Technical Skills: Provide concrete examples of your proficiency in data collection, statistical analysis, M&E, and the use of common office software.

Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate Case Studies: Be prepared to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to program implementation challenges, stakeholder conflicts, or data interpretation in the education sector in Madagascar.

• Articulate Problem-Solving: Practice explaining your approach to problem-solving, emphasizing a structured, data-informed, and collaborative methodology.

• Demonstrate Communication Skills: Prepare to articulate complex ideas clearly and concisely in both French and Malagasy, as well as English, highlighting your ability to communicate with diverse audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes practical experience and technical skills relevant to educational program implementation in Madagascar. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their capabilities through their application materials and during interviews, potentially including a written assessment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Word (document creation, formatting), Excel (data analysis, VLOOKUP, pivot tables, charting), and PowerPoint (presentations, stakeholder reports) is essential.

• Internet & Research Tools: Strong ability to conduct online research, access information, and utilize digital platforms for data gathering and communication.

• Project Management Software (Basic): Familiarity with basic project management principles and potentially tools for task tracking and scheduling, though not explicitly listed as a requirement.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Statistical Software (Basic to Intermediate): Experience with data analysis and statistical interpretation, potentially using Excel's advanced functions or basic statistical packages.

• Data Visualization Tools: Ability to create clear and impactful charts and graphs using Excel or PowerPoint to present findings to stakeholders.

• M&E Frameworks: Understanding and application of monitoring and evaluation principles and tools for tracking program progress and impact.

CRM & Automation:

• UNICEF Internal Systems: While not specified, candidates may encounter UNICEF's internal systems for reporting, finance, and HR. Adaptability to new platforms is key.

• Communication Platforms: Proficiency in email, video conferencing tools (e.g., Teams, Zoom), and potentially collaborative platforms for team communication and project updates.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technical requirements are standard for a consultancy role in this field, heavily relying on Microsoft Office suite for data management, analysis, and reporting. The emphasis is on practical application of these tools for program support and analysis rather than specialized software.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Accountability: Taking ownership of responsibilities and delivering on commitments to UNICEF and the Ministry of Education.

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards and transparency in all professional dealings.

• Respect: Valuing diversity, fostering inclusive environments, and treating all stakeholders with dignity.

• Commitment: Demonstrating dedication to improving children's education and well-being in Madagascar.

• Excellence: Striving for high-quality program support, data analysis, and technical assistance.

Collaboration Style:

• Partnership-Oriented: Working closely and collaboratively with the Ministry of National Education at national and regional levels, fostering a spirit of mutual support and shared goals.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Collaborating effectively with other UNICEF program sections and external development partners to ensure holistic approaches to child development.

• Open Communication: Maintaining transparent and regular communication with supervisors, team members, and stakeholders, actively seeking and providing constructive feedback.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share expertise, best practices, and lessons learned to enhance team capacity and program effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: UNICEF's core values (CRITAS - Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, Accountability, Sustainability) are likely to guide the team's operational culture. The collaborative style emphasizes strong partnerships with government entities and a focus on shared objectives for child welfare.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Bureaucratic Structures: Working within and alongside government ministries can present challenges related to administrative processes, decision-making timelines, and inter-departmental coordination.

  • Mitigation: Develop strong relationship management skills, understand government protocols, and maintain consistent, clear communication.

• Geographical and Logistical Hurdles: Extensive travel within regions like Sofia and Menabe may involve challenging road conditions, limited connectivity, and the need for robust logistical planning.

  • Mitigation: Proactive planning for travel, accommodation, and communication; maintaining flexibility and resilience.

• Data Quality and Availability: Ensuring timely and accurate data collection from diverse educational institutions can be difficult, impacting program monitoring and evaluation.

  • Mitigation: Implement robust data collection protocols, provide training to data collectors, and conduct data validation exercises.

• Adapting to Diverse Needs: Addressing the varied educational needs and contexts across different communities within the assigned regions requires tailored approaches.

  • Mitigation: Conduct thorough needs assessments, engage local stakeholders in program design, and remain adaptable in implementation.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Sectoral Specialization: Gain in-depth practical experience in specific educational interventions (e.g., TaRL, teacher training, inclusive education) and their operational implementation.

• UN System Exposure: Understand the operational framework, policies, and procedures of a major UN agency, which can be invaluable for future career prospects in international development.

• Cross-Cultural Competence: Enhance skills in working effectively with diverse teams, stakeholders, and communities in a cross-cultural environment.

• Professional Networking: Build a strong network of contacts within Madagascar's education sector and the international development community.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for field-based roles in developing countries, requiring resilience, adaptability, and strong interpersonal skills. Growth opportunities are tied to practical experience, professional development, and networking within the UN system and the broader development sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Program Implementation: "Describe a time you provided technical assistance to a government ministry for a large-scale education program. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on process, stakeholder management, problem-solving).

• Data Analysis & M&E: "How would you approach establishing a monitoring system for teacher training programs in remote regions of Madagascar? What data would you collect, and how would you ensure its accuracy?" (Focus on methodology, data quality, practical application).

• Stakeholder Engagement: "Imagine you are facing resistance from local education officials regarding a new pedagogical approach. How would you engage them to gain buy-in and ensure successful implementation?" (Focus on communication, negotiation, partnership building).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working with UNICEF, and specifically in supporting the education sector in Madagascar?" (Assess alignment with UNICEF's mission and values).

• "How do you see your role contributing to UNICEF's broader goals for child welfare and education?" (Focus on impact and strategic thinking).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise & Impactful: Prepare a brief (5-10 minute) overview of 1-2 key projects that best exemplify your qualifications. Focus on achievements and lessons learned.

• Quantify Results: Use specific data and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., "Increased teacher attendance by 15%," "Improved learning outcomes in 80% of targeted schools").

• Highlight Process: Clearly explain the operational processes you followed, your role in them, and how you contributed to efficiency or effectiveness.

• Contextualize Skills: Tailor your examples to the specific requirements of this consultancy, emphasizing experience in Madagascar and the education sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical experience, problem-solving skills, and alignment with UNICEF's mission and operational context. Candidates should be ready to articulate their contributions with specific examples and quantifiable results.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the online recruitment portal (Talent Management System - TMS) via the provided link.

• Customize Your CV and Cover Letter: Tailor your CV and cover letter to explicitly highlight your experience in Madagascar's education sector, your technical assistance capabilities, and your familiarity with program planning, coordination, and M&E. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Financial Proposal: Download and complete the provided financial proposal template, ensuring your proposed fees are competitive and clearly itemized as per UNICEF guidelines.

• Gather Supporting Documents: Ensure your CV is up-to-date, and be ready to provide any additional documentation UNICEF may request during the selection process.

• Research UNICEF's Work: Familiarize yourself with UNICEF's current education programs in Madagascar and globally, as well as the GPE's objectives, to articulate your understanding and alignment during interviews.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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