Introduction
The Aga Khan University’s Institute for Human Development (AKU IHD), in collaboration with the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), is implementing the Scaling Up Playful Parenting (SUPP) project in an effort to enhance knowledge and address capacity gaps in the early childhood development (ECD) sector. The project aims to enhance access to high quality parenting programmes and other ECD interventions targeting families of young children in developing country contexts.
The key areas of focus for the project include:-
· development of ECD technical resources,
· enhancing access to the technical resources as well as capacity development through technical advisory,
· trainings in the Science of Early Child Development (SECD) and
· Care for Child Development (CCD), among other initiatives.
AKU IHD and AKF have developed a series of case studies on CCD implementation in four countries: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Syria. The objective of the case studies is to document experiences of stakeholders in adapting and implementing CCD interventions within their contexts. This activity contributes to the objective on development of ECD technical resources that can be used to support government policymakers and other stakeholders in the implementation of interventions that aim to enhance play, communication and responsive caregiving among parents and caregivers. Results from the case studies have shown that government sectors such as health, education, and protection among others have a key role to play in ensuring that young children have a strong start to life.
Against this background, we would like to engage a consultant to review the four CCD case study reports and develop a series of policy briefs providing recommendations to support decision-making by policymakers. The policy briefs should clearly identify policy issues and possible alternatives for addressing them, and recommend the best alternatives based on the contextual issues identified in the case studies.
Responsibilities
· The consultant will be required to read and obtain a thorough understanding of the four country case studies and identify policy issues and recommendations that will contribute towards the development of the policy briefs.
· Review other relevant documents to enrich the policy briefs.
· Prepare the draft policy briefs, present to AKU-IHD, and obtain their reviews.
· Incorporate feedback and develop the final policy briefs.
Requirements
· A minimum of a post graduate qualification in policy studies, early childhood studies, or a related field.
· Proven track record of successfully undertaking similar work.
· International experience in early childhood development. Familiarity with the Care for Child Development training is highly desired.
· Thorough understanding of issues relating to the early childhood development sector across East and Southern Africa and developing country contexts. Experience in Syria or other emergency contexts is an added advantage.
· Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
· A good command of the English language.
How to Apply
Please send your application to the Manager, Human Resources, Aga Khan University Nairobi, Kenya by email at hr.universityke@aku.edu
Applications should be submitted latest by September 24, 2021.