Learning Specialist (DRR and Resilience Learning Hub)

United Nations Core Values: Integrity, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity

Background

UNITAR is testing the DRR Learning Hub under the leadership of its UNOSAT Programme. The DRR Learning Hub aims to bring about positive change in the way key DRR stakeholders plan for and implement capacity development programmes, by developing and implementing learning strategies that can effectively influence national and regional development processes.

UNITAR’s Learning Hub is intended to complement and strengthen existing, mature DRR programmes carried out by multi-lateral and national partners. To this effect, UNITAR and the IFRC have committed to collaborate on learning innovation for DRR. As part of this exciting new cooperation, UNITAR has committed to support IFRC’s efforts to strengthen the emergency preparedness capacities of its National Societies in sub-Saharan Africa through the deployment of a Learning Specialist. NorCap has agreed to support this deployment.

Though innovative, collaborative methodologies, the incumbent is expected to contribute to Red Cross/Red Crescent National Societies by developing a learning strategy around its National Societies Preparedness for Response initiative (NDPRM). Under the supervision of the Manager, UNOSAT/UNITAR, the incumbent will design a learning strategy for NDPRM in Sub-Saharan Africa and will develop and test at least one learning solution tailored to the needs of National Societies in the region.

The Learning Specialist is expected to document the process, referred to as the Learning Booster, and to make recommendations for further investments for and re-adjustments of the NDPRM Learning Strategy.

The Learning Specialist will have proven experience in designing and implementing innovative learning solutions (both face-to-face and virtual), a track-record of monitoring and evaluating outcomes and results of learning, and in-depth understanding of development and risk management dynamics.

Responsibilities

In coordination with the supervisor, the IFRC Secretariat Focal Point in Geneva and in close cooperation with the IFRC Regional Office Africa Focal Point, the incumbent will contribute to the NDPRM initiative and other DRR activities by:

• Designing a learning strategy in support of National Societies’ Emergency Preparedness capacity development in Sub-Saharan Africa. The strategy will be costed and will outline learning milestones, target audiences, most pressing needs, best learning solutions, and monitoring indicators. The NDPRM learning strategy will need to be connected with the competency-based Global Surge Capacity learning strategy for international response.
• Identified possible learning solutions and Designing at least one learning solution (either digital or face-to-face) to start testing the implementation of the Learning Strategy. The type of solution will be based on the most urgent needs identified and the best learning channel to address them.
• Testing the learning solution and documenting the results of the test.
• Documenting methodological lessons and solutions, for replicability of the project in other contexts.
• Promoting UNOSAT’s satellite analysis and capacity development activities when appropriate (max 10% of total deployment time).

Reporting structure:

The incumbent will report to the UNOSAT Manager. He/ She will work and liaise with other UNOSAT staff and in close coordination and collaboration with IFRC Focal points (DCPRR and Learning) in Geneva and Africa Regional Office (DCPRR and Learning).

Work implies frequent interaction with the following:

• UNOSAT’s Manager, IFRC Secretariat Focal Point and IFRC Africa Office.

• Other learning and knowledge Management stakeholders (UN Agencies, NGOs, Academia) based Eastern Africa.

• National Societies in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Results Expected:

• A Learning Strategy for NDPRM Capacity development in Sub-Saharan Africa that is aligned with other IFRC learning initiatives for preparedness for response competencies (i.e. Surge optimization).

• Monitoring Framework for the Learning Strategy.

• One mid-term report for internal distribution (IFRC-UNITAR).

• Final project report including lessons learnt, documented results, recommendations for potential follow-op activities.

Competencies

Professionalism:

Ability to design and implement learning programmes, using the most advanced adult learning methodologies and technical solutions. Strong experience in monitoring and evaluation, and understanding of disaster risk reduction principles and stakeholders. Knowledge and understanding of the humanitarian system. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations.

Planning & Organizing:

Sound planning and organizational skills and ability to prioritize own work, delivering results and quality work, including when working under pressure.

Commitment to continuous learning:

Keeps abreast of new developments in own occupation/profession; actively seeks to develop oneself professionally and personally; contributes to the learning of colleagues and subordinates; shows willingness to learn from others; seeks feedback to learn and improve. 

Communications:

Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

Technology awareness:

Keeps abreast of available learning and knowledge management technology; understands applicability and limitation of technology to the work of National Societies; actively seeks to apply technology to appropriate tasks; shows willingness to learn new technology.

Teamwork:

Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position, shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

Qualifications

Education:

Advanced university degree (M.Sc. or Ph.D.) in social sciences or development of pedagogic studies or a related field.

Experience:

Minimum 5-7 years of professional experience in planning and implementation of learning programmes in the humanitarian or development sector.

Other skills:

Learning resources and approaches, Instructional design, use of instructional design applications, community management experience, and project management.

Languages:

Fluency in oral and written English is essential, and French is an asset.

No Fee

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.