Background (UNESCO)
UNESCO stands for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. It is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) aimed at promoting world peace and security through international cooperation in education, sciences, culture, and communication.
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Job Vacancy Announcement: National Communication Officer
Parent Sector: Education Sector (ED)
Duty Station: Kabul, Afghanistan
Job Family: Education
Type of Contract: Non-Staff (Service Contract)
Level: SC-9 (Level 3)
Duration of Contract: 1 year (with possibility of extension)
Recruitment Open To: Internal & External Candidates
Application Deadline: 14 August 2025 (Midnight, Kabul Time)
Overview of the Position
Under the authority of the Head of Education and the direct supervision of the Associate Project Officer (Skills Development and Literacy Team), the National Communication Officer will be responsible for enhancing the visibility and outreach of UNESCO’s education interventions in Afghanistan. The role involves strategic communication planning, content creation, stakeholder engagement, and media relations to amplify UNESCO’s impact in the country.
The incumbent will ensure alignment with UNESCO’s 2025 Communication Strategy and Communication Plan, strengthening internal and external awareness of the organization’s education programs while fostering engagement with key stakeholders, including donors, government partners, civil society, and beneficiaries.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
1. Strategic Communication & Visibility
- Lead the implementation and periodic review of UNESCO Afghanistan’s 2025 Communication Strategy and Plan, ensuring alignment with program objectives and donor expectations.
- Develop, edit, and disseminate high-quality communication materials for diverse platforms, including:
- Fact sheets, success stories, newsletters, and donor reports
- Press releases, web articles, and social media content
- Advocacy materials for donors and strategic partners
- Oversee UNESCO Afghanistan’s digital presence, including website updates and social media engagement.
2. Event Management & Media Relations
- Coordinate communication activities for project launches, dissemination workshops, and closing events, ensuring strong media coverage.
- Develop media kits, press briefings, and visibility materials for high-profile events.
- Liaise with journalists, media outlets, and UN communications groups to enhance UNESCO’s public outreach.
3. Capacity Building & Knowledge Management
- Conduct training sessions for UNESCO staff on communication best practices, including storytelling, social media engagement, and branding.
- Maintain a centralized repository of communication products (case studies, best practices, and impact reports).
- Support the synthesis of project results for reporting and learning purposes.
4. Coordination & Reporting
- Represent UNESCO in UN Communications Groups and coordinate with UNESCO Headquarters on global campaigns.
- Prepare monthly and annual communication reports, tracking visibility metrics and engagement levels.
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of communication strategies, adjusting tactics as needed.
5. Gender Mainstreaming & Inclusivity
- Ensure gender-sensitive messaging across all communication materials.
- Highlight stories of women and marginalized groups benefiting from UNESCO’s programs.
Organizational Context
UNESCO has been a long-term strategic partner in Afghanistan, supporting education under the UN Strategic Framework (2023-2027) and contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The organization focuses on rebuilding Afghanistan’s education system while addressing immediate needs such as literacy, skills development, and teacher training.
This role is critical in showcasing UNESCO’s impact, ensuring transparency, and fostering partnerships that support Afghanistan’s education recovery.
Contract Duration & Expected Results
- Initial contract: 1 year (with possible extension based on performance and funding).
- Expected outcomes:
- Increased visibility of UNESCO’s education programs in Afghanistan.
- Stronger stakeholder engagement through strategic communication.
- Enhanced donor and public awareness of UNESCO’s contributions.
Competencies (UNESCO Core Values)
- Accountability (C)—Takes responsibility for actions and decisions.
- Communication (C)—Clear, effective, and persuasive communication.
- Innovation (C) – Proposes creative solutions to challenges.
- Knowledge Sharing (C)—Promotes learning and best practices.
- Planning & Organizing (C) – Manages priorities and deadlines efficiently.
- Results Focus (C) – Delivers high-quality outcomes.
- Teamwork (C)—Collaborates effectively in a multicultural environment.
Required Qualifications
Education
- Advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field.
Work Experience
- Minimum 3 years of professional experience in strategic communications, preferably with UN agencies, NGOs, or international organizations.
- Proven experience in content development for digital platforms, including social media, websites, and reports.
- Demonstrated ability to work across media platforms (print, digital, multimedia).
Desirable Skills
- Graphic design, video editing, or photography skills (proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite is an asset).
- Experience in development communication, particularly in education or humanitarian sectors.
- Strong storytelling and advocacy skills, with the ability to translate technical reports into engaging content.
- Project management skills, including budgeting and work plan development.
Languages
- Fluent in Dari or Pashto (written and spoken).
- Excellent command of English (essential for reporting and donor communications).
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About UNESCO
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, is a specialized agency of the United Nations established in 1945. Its mission is to promote peace, sustainable development, and intercultural dialogue through education, science, culture, and communication. Headquartered in Paris, France, UNESCO operates globally with 194 member states and works to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges, including inequality, environmental degradation, and cultural preservation.
One of UNESCO’s primary focuses is education. The organization advocates for inclusive and equitable quality education for all, as outlined in the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4). It supports literacy programs, teacher training, and educational policies to ensure lifelong learning opportunities. Additionally, UNESCO designates World Heritage Sites, protecting culturally and naturally significant locations such as the Great Barrier Reef, the Pyramids of Egypt, and Machu Picchu. These sites are preserved for future generations while promoting sustainable tourism.
In the field of science, UNESCO fosters international cooperation in research, technology, and environmental conservation. It runs programs on oceanography, climate change, and freshwater management, emphasizing the ethical use of scientific advancements. The organization also plays a key role in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage, such as traditional music, dances, and crafts, ensuring that diverse cultures thrive in a globalized world.
Furthermore, UNESCO promotes freedom of expression and media development, defending journalists and combating misinformation. Through initiatives like the Creative Cities Network and the Memory of the World Programme, it encourages innovation
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