About the opportunity
UNESCO, through its Regional Multisectoral Office for West Africa (Sahel) and the UNESCO International Institute for STEM Education (IISTEM), is conducting a regional mapping of STEM education across 15 West African countries. The project aims to strengthen STEM teaching by gathering comprehensive data on the current landscape. The National Consultant will be responsible for disseminating questionnaires, identifying and mobilizing key stakeholders in The Gambia (including educational institutions, ministries, the private sector, and civil society), monitoring response rates, and providing contextual analysis. The role requires close coordination with a Regional Consultant and the UNESCO Regional Office in Dakar. The assignment is primarily remote, with potential for in-country travel to facilitate stakeholder engagement.
Salary and benefits
- Professional consultancy engagement with a leading international organization
- Opportunity to contribute to regional educational policy and STEM development
- Remuneration based on the validation of three key deliverables
- Methodological support and coordination provided by the UNESCO Regional Office
Who can apply?
- Advanced university degree (minimum bachelor's degree) in education sciences, statistics, social sciences, STEM, or a related field
- Prior experience in data collection, surveys, or studies within the education sector in The Gambia
- Strong knowledge of the Gambian education system and key STEM ecosystem stakeholders
- Proficiency in English; knowledge of French or Portuguese is an asset
- Excellent communication and stakeholder mobilization skills
Required documents
- Completed UNESCO History of Employment Form
- Brief technical note (1-2 pages) outlining the proposed approach for identifying and mobilizing respondents
- Financial proposal indicating the monthly fee
- References from relevant prior work
When to apply
- Application deadline: 2026-11-15
How to apply
- Visit the UNESCO Careers portal
- Prepare a single document combining the required materials in the specified order
- Submit the application through the UNESCO SuccessFactors platform in the 'History of Employment Form' section
Additional information
- The contract duration is 2 months
- Payment is structured in three installments: 30% upon validation of the outreach plan, 40% upon completion of data collection, and 30% upon submission of the final report
- The selection process may include pre-recorded video interviews, written assessments, and reference checks
- UNESCO maintains a zero-tolerance policy for harassment and encourages applications from minority groups, indigenous peoples, and persons with disabilities
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Professionals with established networks in the Gambian education sector or STEM-related fields
- Researchers or consultants experienced in survey methodology and data collection for international development projects
- Individuals with a proven track record of mobilizing institutional partners and managing stakeholder relationships
What should you think carefully about?
- The role is a short-term, 2-month consultancy, which may not be suitable for those seeking long-term employment
- The assignment requires high levels of autonomy and self-management, as it is primarily remote
- Applicants must be prepared to provide a competitive financial proposal as part of the evaluation criteria
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This consultancy is an excellent opportunity for professionals looking to build their portfolio with a high-profile international organization like UNESCO. It is particularly well-suited for those aiming to deepen their expertise in regional educational policy, STEM advocacy, or large-scale data collection projects. The role offers a clear, time-bound commitment that allows for professional development without requiring a long-term career pivot.
Our take
This position is ideal for experienced consultants or researchers based in or familiar with The Gambia who possess strong organizational and communication skills. It is less suitable for those without prior experience in the education sector or those who require a full-time, permanent employment arrangement.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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