OVERVIEW Parent Sector : Education Sector (ED) Duty Station: New Delhi Job Family: Education Education Type of contract : Non Staff Duration of contract : From 7 to 11 months Recruitment open to : External candidates Application Deadline (Midnight Paris Time) : 16 June 2025 UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism BACKGROUND AND RATIONALE In today’s rapidly changing educational landscape and as traditional, didactic approaches have become inadequate in helping students prepare for the future, countries are encouraged to adopt an educational approach that supports learners to practically apply their knowledge and skills, and adapt to complex real-life and professional challenges. 21st century skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and digital literacy, are essential in equipping learners to navigate an increasingly complex and technology-driven world, distinguish facts from misinformation, and collaborate to identify solutions to global challenges. Recognizing the need for transformation, India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF) 2023 aim to integrate Competency-Based Education (CBE) and 21st-century skills throughout the education system. The State of Himachal Pradesh in India has initiated reforms aligned with these national policies, but challenges remain in translating these policies into classroom practices. Gaps in teacher capacity, lack of clarity around 21st century competencies, and limited coherence between curriculum, pedagogy, and assessment continue to hinder implementation of the reform measures. UNESCO, in collaboration with the Government of Himachal Pradesh, is launching the HP FUTURES project to strengthen the integration of CBE for 21st century skills, particularly critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and digital literacy. A whole-school approach that aligns policy, pedagogy, training, assessment, and school environments is central to this transformation. The project also emphasizes foundational values such as inclusion, equity, and respect. To support this process, UNESCO seeks an experienced international consultant to provide strategic and technical guidance to the HP FUTURES project on competency-based education. O BJECTIVES The specific objectives of this assignment are: The consultant will support UNESCO and the Government of the State of Himachal Pradesh to: Conduct a comprehensive assessment and review of existing education policies, training programs, and curricular materials related to CBE for 21st century skills across multiple levels. Identify gaps and develop a comprehensive report with strategic recommendations to enhance policy alignment, teacher training, curriculum integration, and assessment coherence on CBE for 21st century skills. Support the development of a roadmap for statewide teacher capacity building focused on practical implementation of 21st century competencies. SCOPE OF WORK The contract duration is expected to be from 1 July 2025 to 1 February 2026 (7 months). DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Under the overall authority of the Director, UNESCO South Asia Regional Office and the direct supervision of the Programme Specialist and Chief of Education sector, the consultant will: 1. Policy and Programmatic Review Conduct a comprehensive review of policies, curriculum, teacher training programs (including Technical and Vocational Education and Training; TVET), and assessment frameworks on CBE for 21st century skills in Himachal Pradesh. Evaluate alignment with NEP 2020, NCF 2023, and global frameworks on CBE and 21st century skills. Evaluate the integration of CBE and 21st century skills (critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, digital literacy) across policy, system, school, and classroom levels. Assess the relevance and effectiveness of TVET programs in translating 21st century skills into employable skills aligned with industry needs. Identify systemic, school-level, and teacher-level barriers to effective implementation. 2. Capacity Building and Training Design Analyze existing in-service teacher training modules and identify gaps. Support the development of a roadmap for teacher training on 21st century skills (e.g., critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, digital literacy). Provide technical inputs for designing scalable teacher training modules through innovative pedagogies and experiential learning. 3. Documentation and Knowledge Products Develop an inception report, periodic progress reports, and a final report with strategic recommendations. Prepare a comprehensive Assessment Report that includes: Definitions and practical implementation of 21st century skills Analysis of gaps and alignment in current policies and programs Evaluation of teacher preparedness and identification of systemic enablers and barriers Long Description Provide actionable recommendations to align policy, curriculum, pedagogy, and assessment with competency-based education (CBE). Draft technical inputs for training materials, policy briefs, and strategic frameworks, as needed. 4. Collaboration and Facilitation Collaborate closely with the project team at the UNESCO Regional Office for South Asia, New Delhi, including the Chief of Education, Project Coordinator, and National Consultants. Coordinate with the National Consultant, Project Steering Committee, and key education stakeholders to collect relevant information and data necessary for the assessment. Organize and lead a five-day scoping mission, facilitating in-depth consultations with key stakeholders, including policymakers, curriculum developers, school leaders and administrators, teacher educators, and representatives from SCERT, DIETs, and vocational institutions. Guide and document these discussions to identify major challenges, existing strengths, and opportunities for education reform. The consultant will be responsible for arranging their own logistics: office space, administrative and secretarial support, team members, telecommunications, travel arrangement, printing of documentation, etc. The costs of these logistics, including all research-related travel costs, will be included in the lump sum proposal. The consultant must ensure that sources are properly cited by using the Harvard referencing style, following international academic standards and making sure that no copyrights are violated. Please refer to the UNESCO Style Manual for citation style, terminology and spelling, abbreviations, references, etc. UNESCO will provide feedback throughout the process, in particular there will be feedback and revisions that are expected to be incorporated for all deliverables. The contractor and UNESCO will hold regular meetings to discuss progress and next steps. In line with UNESCO’s overall gender mainstreaming strategy, the contractor is expected to integrate a gender perspective in all activities and apply gender analysis and mainstreaming concepts whenever feasible. The technical assets produced will be the property of UNESCO. Long Description DELIVERABLES: Workplan outlining methodology, timeline and consultation plan. Policy and practice gap analysis report on CBE and 21st century skills; summary reports on reviewed policies, curricula, TVET and training programs. Documentation from scoping mission and stakeholder consultations. Comprehensive Assessment Report; systematic and operational finding along with strategic recommendations. Roadmap for statewide rollout of teacher training modules. Final consolidated report with actionable recommendations and tools for system-wide implementation. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Education Advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in Education, Curriculum Development, Public Policy, Social Sciences or related fields. Experience Minimum of 10 years of international experience in education system reform, preferably with a focus on competency-based education and 21st century skills. Demonstrated expertise in designing teacher training programs and conducting educational needs assessments. Familiarity with South Asian education systems is desirable. LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS Fluency in English (oral and written) is required. DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS Knowledge of another UN official working language. Experience working with international non-profit organizations, preferably in education development projects in India or the South Asia region. SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and facilitation skills. Excellent writing, communication and presentation skills with stakeholders. Proven ability to work in multicultural teams and complex policy environments. Ability to work under pressure and commitment to work to tight timeframe. Flexibility and adaptability to diverse contexts across culture, gender, religion, and race. Ability to summarize and provide concise and comprehensible feedback. Proficient in using office productivity tools- MS Office, and video conferencing tools like Skype, Zoom and MS Teams, etc. SELECTION AND RECRUITMENT PROCESS Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the UNESCO careers website. No modifications can be made to the application submitted. Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted and candidates in the final selection step. APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Qualified candidates are requested to attach the below documents under the 'Employment History' attachment section: A cover letter indicating how your qualifications and experience make you suitable for the assignment (maximum one page). An up-to-date curriculum vitae stating details of educational qualifications and working experience, telephone number, email address and two (2) references. A technical proposal, indicating an approach/methodology to carry out the assignment, including any inputs that may be required from UNESCO (maximum three pages). A financial proposal indicating (i) travel costs in INR (ii) the overall cost in INR of the assignment, expressed as an overall lump sum, assuming that the contract duration is 7 months, and (iii) costs/month in INR. Two (2) examples of previous, relevant work related to the deliverables. Long Description Proposals will be determined based on the best value for money approach. The weighted model takes account of two components, the individual consultant’s qualifications and the cost, by allocating a weight of 70% to the qualifications of the candidate, and 30% to the cost of the proposal. An assessment exercise may be used in the evaluation of candidates. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Footer UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. UNESCO is committed to achieving and sustaining equitable and diverse geographical distribution, as well as gender parity. Furthermore, UNESCO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups and indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality.UNESCO does not charge a fee at any stage of the selection process.

OVERVIEW Parent Sector : Natural Sciences Sector (SC) Duty Station: New Delhi Job Family: Natural Sciences Type of contract : Non Staff Level : Level 2 Duration of contract : From 1 to 6 months Recruitment open to : External candidates Application Deadline (Midnight Duty Station Time) : 15-06-2025 UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism OVERVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE POST Under the authority of the Director of UNESCO New Delhi, and the direct supervision of the Chief of the Science Sector, the Programme Assistant will support the overall operations and programme management of the Science Sector. This role will particularly focus on assistance for the coordination and implementation of the “Women for Bees” programme within Indian Biosphere Reserves. Long Description Key Responsibilities: Provide programmatic support to Science Sector colleagues to ensure effective decision-making processes and the smooth, efficient implementation of the Science Programme at the UNESCO New Delhi Regional Office. Assist the programme officer of Science Sector in the implementation and reporting of the Women for Bees programme in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, aimed at empowering local women through eco-friendly beekeeping practices that support biodiversity goals. Assist in maintain regular liaison with the local NGOs to support effective project coordination. Assist in drafting reports and contribute content for social media and other communications platforms. Provide support for the celebration of International Days and other official events, including hospitality arrangements for the Science Sector. Assist in identifying cost-effective vendors, suppliers, and service providers for operational needs; support the registration and contracting process in accordance with UNESCO procedures. Support travel planning and provide logistics assistance in alignment with UNESCO’s policies, procedures, and rules. Perform other duties as required to support the work of the Science Sector. COMPETENCIES (Core / Managerial) Accountability (C) Communication (C) Innovation (C) Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement (C) Planning and organizing (C) Results focus (C) Teamwork (C) - For detailed information, please consult the UNESCO Competency Framework . REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Education: Bachelors Degree in life sciences, environment sciences or in any other related field/equivalent Languages: Proficiency in drafting high-quality documents in English is required. Familiarity with Tamil and/or Malayalam is an asset, though not a prerequisite." Long Description DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS Experience of working in a Biosphere Reserve or Protected Area Experience in organizing field activities and stakeholders coordination Previous experience of working with UNESCO or other UN organizations would be considered as advantage DURATION OF CONTRACT The duration of the contract is 6 months (upto December 2025). The possibility of extension is low and will depend on both the availability of funds and the candidate's performance. BENEFITS AND ENTITLEMENTS UNESCO’s salaries consist of a basic salary and other benefits which may include if applicable: 2.5 days annual leave per month, 2 days certified sick leave etc. The approximate Gross monthly salary for this post is INR Rs 64,661 /- (including 15% social security with 10% representing Pension and 5% representing Medical). SELECTION AND RECRUITMENT PROCESS Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the UNESCO careers website. No modifications can be made to the application submitted. The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, and may include tests and/or assessments, as well as an interview. UNESCO uses communication technologies such as video or teleconference, e-mail correspondence, etc. for the assessment and evaluation of candidates. Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted and candidates in the final selection step will be subject to reference checks based on the information provided. Footer UNESCO recalls that paramount consideration in the appointment of staff members shall be the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence and integrity. UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. UNESCO is committed to achieving and sustaining equitable and diverse geographical distribution, as well as gender parity among its staff members in all categories and at all grades. Furthermore, UNESCO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Candidates from non- and under-represented Member States ( last update here ) are particularly welcome and strongly encouraged to apply. Individuals from minority groups and indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality. Worldwide mobility is required for staff members appointed to international posts. UNESCO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process. Please note that UNESCO is a non-smoking Organization.

OVERVIEW Parent Sector : Education Sector (ED) Duty Station: New Delhi Job Family: Education Type of contract : Non Staff Level : Level 4 Duration of contract : 1 year Recruitment open to : Internal and external candidates Application Deadline (Midnight Duty Station Time) : 25-06-2025 UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism OVERVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE POST UNESCO and the Government of Himachal Pradesh are collaborating to improve educational outcomes in the State of Himachal Pradesh through a project titled: HP – FUTURES: Foundation for Upskilling, Teacher excellence, Understanding, Readiness, Equity, and Sustainability (hereafter HP-FUTURES). This project will adopt a three-pronged approach (1) reviewing policies, curricula, teacher training programs, and conducting needs assessments to identify gaps and provide solutions to enhance alignment of competency-based education (CBE) for 21 st century skills ; (2) building knowledge of and providing concrete tools and approaches to teachers on values education through sport ( Sports Values in Every classroom toolkit- SViECT ); and (3) conducting needs assessment of Himachal Pradesh’s readiness to integrate and implement greening education in schools, equipping students with the skills to address real-world problems like climate change. Overview of the functions of the Post Under the overall authority of the Director of the UNESCO Regional Office for South Asia in New Delhi, and direct supervision of the Programme Specialist and Chief of Education (ED), the project coordinator will be engaged by the UNESCO Regional Office for South Asia (hereinafter UNESCO) to support the implementation of the HP – FUTURES project. The Project Coordinator will be based in Shimla and work with the project management team based in New Delhi consisted of Programme Specialists and staff members from the Education and the Social and Human Sciences (SHS) Sectors in the UNESCO Regional Office for South Asia leading overall project management, implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation, and reporting efforts in coordination with UNESCO’s implementing partners in regards to the following three outputs Develop policies, curriculum, teacher training programs, and assessment on competency-based education (CBE) for 21st century skills to enhance teacher readiness for effective implementation in classrooms and beyond. Conduct teacher capacity building workshops to strengthen understanding of values of inclusion, equity, and respect strengthened through sports Evaluate policies, curriculum, teacher training programs, Eco-clubs, and assessments on greening education conducted to ensure a holistic integration of climate change education in Himachal Pradesh, with findings presented to guide future implementation. This role is ideal for a highly organized professional with strong background and experience in education and project management. An understanding of and work experience in, the state of Himachal Pradesh and with state machinery is desirable. Functional Reporting Structure The Project Coordinator will: Report directly to the Programme Specialist and Chief of Education Sector at UNESCO. Maintain a functional reporting line to the UNESCO HP-Futures Project Management Teams from UNESCO Education (ED) Sector and Social and Human Sciences (SHS) Sector. Scope of Work 1. Project Management and Coordination Lead overall project management and provide strategic advisory support to Implementation Partners and local stakeholders to ensure effective and timely delivery of project outcomes. Facilitate cohesive communication and coordination among UNESCO New Delhi Office, Himachal Pradesh government, implementing partners, consultants, and other stakeholders. Develop and manage detailed work plans, budgets, timelines, and risk mitigation strategies; support financial monitoring and procurement processes in coordination with UNESCO’s administrative teams. Organize and oversee project events, workshops, and consultations; ensure logistical arrangements and stakeholder participation are effectively managed. Monitor the political, social, and security environment in implementation areas and ensure compliance with UN security protocols. Facilitate a scoping mission featuring multiple consultation sessions with diverse stakeholders — including policymakers, curriculum developers, school administrators, teachers, State Council of Educational Research and Training and District Institute of Education and Training - for CBE. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) The performance of the Project Coordinator will be assessed based on the following indicators: 1. Project Management and Coordination All planned activities are implemented on time, with effective coordination and communication reflected in positive stakeholder feedback. Project documentation, including work plans, reports, and meeting minutes, is timely, complete, and meets quality standards. Strong relationships are established with key stakeholders, and government counterparts demonstrate ownership through active participation and policy uptake. Budget is utilized efficiently with full compliance to financial procedures and no major audit findings. Events and activities are delivered cost-effectively and in accordance with UN security protocols, considering the political, social, and security context. 2. Technical and Content Development Support Assessment reports and technical documents meet UNESCO’s quality standards, are contextually relevant to Himachal Pradesh, and align with NEP 2020 and NCF 2023. All project outputs reflect UNESCO’s principles and thematic priorities. Curriculum and content development are completed on schedule in collaboration with consultants and partners, incorporating field data and stakeholder inputs. Long Description 3. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting A robust Monitoring and Evaluation framework is implemented, with regular collection and analysis of gender- and age-disaggregated data to track progress against objectives. Quarterly updates, project reports, and communication materials are submitted on time and contribute to project visibility and decision-making. A functional document repository is maintained, and lessons learned are clearly documented and applied to future project phases. COMPETENCIES (Core / Managerial) Accountability (C) Communication (C) Innovation (C) Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement (C) Planning and organizing (C) Results focus (C) Teamwork (C) - For detailed information, please consult the UNESCO Competency Framework . REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Education Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in education, development studies, social work, or in the field of social and human sciences and related disciplines. Work Experience At least 3 years of progressively responsible professional experience programme management (technical and financial), including programme design, programme coordination, monitoring and evaluation of activities and budget, donor reporting; in the field of education, social and human sciences. Language Excellent knowledge of English. Fluency in Hindi. Skills and Competencies Organizational and coordination skills, ability to monitor budget and work plans, and report on projects and activities . Good interpersonal and communication skills; ability to deal efficiently with partners at different levels. Ability to work effectively in a multicultural team environment. Capacity to adapt and adjust work schedules and perform diligently under pressure. Excellent knowledge management skills and understanding of emerging communication and information technologies and their potential uses DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS Work Experience 5 years of progressively responsible professional experience in programme management (technical and financial), including programme design, programme coordination, monitoring and evaluation of activities and budget, donor reporting; in the field of education, social and human sciences. Experience of handling projects on enhancing educational outcomes, curriculum development and teacher training or related areas. Experience with implementing projects at state level; liaising and collaborating with government and civil society stakeholders. Experience of working with UN or other international organizations will be an added advantage. Work experience in Himachal Pradesh. Skills And Competencies Knowledge of competency-based learning, value education, climate change education Familiarity with the United Nations system and its coordination mechanism is an advantage. Knowledge of cross-cutting principles such as Gender, Human Rights-based approaches to development, Conflict Sensitivity and Do-No-Harm approaches and disability inclusion. Experience in coordinating teams effectively. BENEFITS AND ENTITLEMENTS UNESCO’s salaries consist of a net salary and other benefits which includes 30 days annual leave, 24 days certified sick leave, 15 percent Social Security contribution from office (10 percent for Pension and 5 percent for medical). The salary range for this post starts from Gross Salary 233,282/- INR per month (this amounts includes 15 percent Social Security Contribution). SELECTION AND RECRUITMENT PROCESS Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the UNESCO careers website. No modifications can be made to the application submitted. The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, and may include tests and/or assessments, as well as an interview. UNESCO uses communication technologies such as video or teleconference, e-mail correspondence, etc. for the assessment and evaluation of candidates. Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted and candidates in the final selection step will be subject to reference checks based on the information provided. Footer UNESCO recalls that paramount consideration in the appointment of staff members shall be the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence and integrity. UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. UNESCO is committed to achieving and sustaining equitable and diverse geographical distribution, as well as gender parity among its staff members in all categories and at all grades. Furthermore, UNESCO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Candidates from non- and under-represented Member States ( last update here ) are particularly welcome and strongly encouraged to apply. Individuals from minority groups and indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality. Worldwide mobility is required for staff members appointed to international posts. UNESCO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process. Please note that UNESCO is a non-smoking Organization.