AVU Research Specialist - Consultant Job Vacancy

AVU Multinational Support Project, Phase II
 

Terms of Reference: Research Specialist - Consultant
1.0. Introduction

The Board of ADB Group granted the AVU another $15.6 Million through the African Development Fund for a second phase of a Multinational Project which will build on the first phase and will extend its benefits to more countries. 

 

The overall objective of the AVU Multinational Project II is to continue to strengthen the capacity of the AVU and a network of 27 institutions to develop, deliver and manage quality ICT integrated programs in 22 African countries. 

 

The project has the following activities:

• establishment and upgrading of distance and eLearning infrastructure
• development and improvement of programs for elearning in: Teacher Education with focus on mathematics and sciences; Computer Science; and Peace and Conflict Resolution.
• promotion and development of Open Education Resources (OERs)
• training of trainers in elearning methodologies
• gender Mainstreaming mainly by awarding scholarships to female students in mathematics and science disciplines
• research and development with a focus on Mobile Learning
• technical assistance to countries on distance and elearning policies and strategies 

The AVU Multinational project II will be implemented in 27 AVU Partner Institutions in the following 21 countries: nine (9) Francophone African Countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal; four (3) Lusophone African Countries: Cape Verde, Guinea Bissau and Mozambique; and nine (9) Anglophone African Countries: Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Sudan, Sudan, and Tanzania.

As an initial activity in the implementation of the project, the AVU has planned a project launch mission in each of the participating countries and institution. 

 

The overall purpose of the launch will be to sensitise the wider project beneficiaries in each country as well as to collect baseline information related to the project’s activities. 

 

To successfully carry-out the missions, the AVU requires a Research Specialist consultant to assist with the collection of data and eventually compiling a comprehensive report

2.0. Scope of Work

The consultant will undertake the following activities, in collaboration with the AVU Monitoring and Evaluation Officer:

• Review literature and policies relevant to the project’s activities
• Contribute substantial input in the preparation of the launch missions
• Participate in the launch mission visits
• Collect relevant data and information in countries
• Collate all data into one comprehensive report
• Write a research report
• Any other task that may be required

3.0. Expected Deliverables

• A report on:

1. Project related literature review
2. Relevant data and information from each country

• Well-prepared launch missions
• Well-executed launch visits
• Report produced

4.0. Qualifications

• A PhD in Education or a Bachelor's Degree in Education with over 10 years experience in higher education platform;
• Proven record of successful interaction with individuals from a diverse array of backgrounds, including government officials and university top management;
• Demonstrable experience conducting and analyzing field research and managing a research team;
• Proven interest in issues of ICT in Education;
• Ability to conduct evidence-based policy analysis and play an active role in the development of program policy and direction;
• Knowledge of computer programs, including Microsoft Word and Excel;
• Experience in program management and logistics;
• Bilingual: English/French; and
• Knowledge of Portuguese is an added advantage.

5.0. Modalities of Work
 

The consultant will be engaged for 6 months and will work full time dedicating 8 hours in a day for 5 days a week.

6.0. Reporting
 

The consultant will report to the AVU Rector

7.0. Payment
 

A competitive monthly rate commensurate with qualification and experience will be offered. All expenses related to field visits will be paid for by the AVU

Applications should be sent to job@avu.org clearly indicating Consultant research specialist on the subject line. 

 

Application deadline is 11th October 2012.