Education & Blue Economy Technical Specialist at Cowater International

• The specialist will provide field level advice, technical support and policy input related to both education and blue economy, with the overall objective to support and strengthen the delivery of Canada’s international assistance programming in the countries that fall under the Canadian High Commission in Kenya’s purview.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Coordination:

• Collaborate with project stakeholders, local communities, and government agencies to address mutual challenges.
• Provide guidance on synergies and opportunities for further efficiencies in education, and the blue economy (combining traditional sectors such as fisheries, aquaculture, and tourism). With emerging sectors such as renewable energy and marine biotechnology).
• Provide subject matter expertise to support on program and project planning and design.
• Work alongside the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs and provide support to the Blue Economy working group.
• Coordinate and provide secretariat support to working groups as required.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Engage with key stakeholders, partners, donors, civil society organizations, academia, private sector etc. and keep apprised of their sector-specific engagement on education and the blue economy.
• Organize sector specific learning and networking events for key stakeholders.
• Establish and maintain a list of contacts within relevant ministries, development partners, private sector, civil society actors, and other key stakeholders to support advancement of GAC objectives.
• Participate in and guide consultations and engagement sessions on sector-specific matters.
• Support to Canada's engagement with relevant stakeholders.
• Identify capacity gaps and opportunities for government and partner agencies’ engagement.

Capacity Building:

• Provide training and support to project staff, partners, and local communities on topics related to education and the blue economy as well as best practices.
• Stay informed about sector-specific emerging trends and disseminate relevant information to GAC.
• Research and propose innovative solutions to link education, skills development and the employment opportunities in the blue economy.
• Provide assistance and capacity building support to government and partner organizations on national policies, strategies and frameworks related to education and the blue economy.

Reporting and Documentation

• Review and provided comments on project documents including proposals, performance frameworks, reports, etc.
• Prepare and submit preparatory reports for working group committees as required.
• Review and analyze current news, events, trends that impact sector specific GAC programming and interests on a weekly basis.
• Identify opportunities to showcase and leverage Canada-funded education and blue economy activities, through the production of monthly impact stories on results and innovations (rotating monthly by sector).
• Engage with partners and highlight a monthly impact story.

Monitoring and Evaluation

• Implement systems for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of GAC programs in the education and blue economy sector.
• Prepare and submit regular reports on performance and compliance concerning projects and programs.
• Monitor trends and emerging issues and provide expert advice.
• Identify capacity gaps and opportunities for government and partner agencies' engagement.
• Undertake field monitoring visits to assess and conduct technical reviews as required.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in education, international development, or a related field; a master’s degree is preferred.

Minimum Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in designing and implementing education programs, preferably in international development projects.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in working on the blue economy sector.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Thorough understanding of Kenyan and Canadian frameworks and standards in the education and blue economy sector.
• Knowledge of global education commitments and funding frameworks.
• Knowledge of global blue economy commitments and funding frameworks.
• Strong critical thinking, data analysis and reporting skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Superior writing and editing skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural and multidisciplinary team.
• Certification in education or related field is an advantage.
• Knowledge of the local culture and educational context in Kenya is necessary.
• Proficiency in English is required; knowledge of Swahili or other local languages is an advantage.
• Ability to build positive relationships with stakeholders and local communities.
• Problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in challenging and multicultural environments.

The following skills and experience will be an asset:

• Ability to provide policy advice and technical guidance and support to GAC target countries in the implementation of blue economy and education strategies.