The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Office in Windhoek is seeking applications for a programme assistant in the fields of science, education for sustainable development and teacher education.

The position of the programme assistant ensures the assistance to the supervising officers in the operational implementation of activities. The level of the programme assistant post is at L3, with salaries being in accordance with United Nations scales (ICSC). The appointment is for a period of six (6) months, subject to the probationary period of three (3) months. Extension beyond six (6) months is subject to availability of funds.

Individuals engaged are governed by the provisions of the UNESCO Staff Regulations and General Conditions as established by the Director-General of UNESCO.

1. The main tasks and responsibilities for the position include the following:

• Assist in the implementation of the activities under the Project “Reorienting Science Education towards Sustainability through Teacher Education in the SADC region” and related natural sciences, education for sustainable development as well as teacher education programme activities, by providing clerical, secretarial, administrative and logistical support to the Programme Specialists for Science and Education, including the drafting of simple correspondence, taking minutes of meetings, as well as preparation of monitoring and evaluation reports.

• Assist in monitoring, recording and following up on the Natural Science Programme sector’s administrative and programme budget, particularly the project “Reorienting Science Education towards Sustainability through Teacher Education in the SADC region” as well as facilitating day to day tasks including responding to correspondence and queries, organizing meetings, making transport, visa, travel and accommodation arrangements.

2. The incumbent must fulfil the following requirements:

• Education: College education; preferably followed by secretarial training and/or science or education related equivalent experience; good general culture.

• Professional Experience: At least three years of relevant work experience; experience acquired in the agencies of the UN system will be considered as an advantage.

• Profile:
- Familiarity or ability to quickly learn UNESCO relevant procedures;
- Technical writing skills on issues related to science and education activities;
- Very good organizational skills;
- Strong analytical and communication skills,
- Ability to multi-task, prioritize and deliver to deadlines;
- Good computer skills including applications to establish/modify filing, reference and information systems;
- Ability to work as part of a team and to take initiatives to provide quality and timely support and services;
- Flexibility to adjust work schedules and priorities.

• Personality: Discretion and capacity to deal efficiently and tactfully with people of different cultural backgrounds.

• Language skills: Good communication (oral and written) skills in English. Fluency in other languages will be considered as an advantage.

Preference will be given to Namibian citizens who meet the requirements.

Individuals willing to apply to this position are invited to submit their CV and a cover letter supporting their application, either by post or e-mail, to:

Administrative Officer
UNESCO Office Windhoek
UN House
38-44 Stein Street
P.O. Box 24519
Windhoek
Namibia
Email: g.tilahun@unesco.org