United Nations Volunteers invites qualified professionals to apply for the position of Project Officer – Communications and Information within UNESCO’s Regional Office for Southern Africa (UNESCO ROSA) in Pretoria.
This role is vital to UNESCO’s efforts in promoting freedom of expression, fostering resilient societies against disinformation, hate speech, and harmful online content, and supporting peacebuilding initiatives through social media and communication strategies.
Location: Pretoria, South Africa
Duration: 12 months (with possibility of extension)
Assignment Type: National UN Volunteer Expert
Application Deadline: 11 May 2025
Number of Positions: 1
Organization Overview
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, is dedicated to fostering peace, sustainable development, and human rights through education, science, culture, and communication.
As a specialized agency of the UN, UNESCO collaborates with 194 Member States to promote inclusive knowledge societies, protect heritage, advance quality education, and ensure access to reliable information.
Mission and Context
Under the EU-funded Social Media 4 Peace (SM4P) project, UNESCO aims to strengthen societal resilience to disinformation and hate speech, especially in socially polarized environments.
The project involves research, advocacy, coalition-building, and capacity development, engaging stakeholders such as government agencies, civil society, media, academia, and social media platforms.
The Project Officer will support the implementation of these initiatives in South Africa, working closely with national authorities and partners to promote an inclusive, peaceful, and informed society.
Key Responsibilities
A) Technical Implementation and Coordination
- Support design, implementation, and evaluation of project activities.
- Assist in drafting work plans, budgets, and monitoring indicators.
- Conduct research and data analysis related to social media, disinformation, and freedom of expression.
- Develop proposals and publications to advance project goals.
- Facilitate stakeholder engagement, ensuring national ownership.
- Coordinate capacity-building activities and promote project visibility.
- Mainstream gender equality across all project activities.
B) Project Administration
- Provide logistical and administrative support for meetings, events, and procurement.
- Monitor project budgets and coordinate contractual and financial processes.
- Maintain accurate records and documentation.
- Assist in resource mobilization efforts, including identifying potential donors and partners.
C) Communication and Outreach
- Prepare communication materials, including social media content, infographics, and reports.
- Liaise with the EU delegation and ensure compliance with visibility requirements.
- Enhance project outreach and stakeholder engagement.
D) Monitoring and Reporting
- Track project progress and compile reports for UNESCO HQ and EU donors.
- Ensure systematic collection of data and results.
- Support the preparation of periodic progress updates.
E) Office Support
- Draft correspondence and reports.
- Assist with routine administrative tasks and maintain contact lists.
- Support overall office functions and team coordination.
Eligibility Criteria
- Age: 18-80 years
- Nationality: Must be a national or legal resident of South Africa
- Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Mass Communication, Social Sciences, Human Rights, or related fields
- Experience: Minimum 7 years relevant professional experience in communication, media, human rights, or related areas
- Languages: Fluent in English
- Core Competencies: Professionalism, integrity, teamwork, respect for diversity, planning, communication, flexibility, and a commitment to voluntary service
Desired Skills and Experience
- Demonstrated engagement in freedom of expression, media, human rights, or peacebuilding
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- Knowledge of human rights issues, social media, disinformation, and hate speech
- Ability to manage multi-stakeholder projects and conduct independent research
- Experience in capacity building and stakeholder coordination
Living and Working Conditions
Pretoria offers vibrant urban amenities, cultural diversity, and access to international services. Candidates should be prepared for security considerations typical of the region, including vigilance in certain areas.
UN Volunteers receive comprehensive support, including a monthly Volunteer Living Allowance, medical insurance, life cover, and access to learning platforms.
Remuneration and Entitlements
- Monthly Volunteer Living Allowance: R22,926.08
- Monthly Expertise Differential: R9,170.43
- One-time Entry Lump Sum: $400
- Medical Insurance, Life Cover, and Annual Leave
- One-time Exit Lump Sum at the end of the assignment
Inclusive Statement
UN Volunteers is committed to diversity and equal opportunity. Applications from qualified professionals regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, or social background are welcome.
We promote an inclusive environment that respects and values individual dignity and human rights.
Join UNESCO and contribute to building inclusive, peaceful, and knowledge-based societies in South Africa. Apply now!
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications via the provided application link [Apply] before 11 May 2025.
Please ensure your application includes all required documentation demonstrating your qualifications and experience.
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