ITEME PROJECT COORDINATOR

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT WITH FINN CHURCH AID 

Finn Church Aid (FCA) is the largest Finnish development cooperation organization and the second largest provider of humanitarian aid. FCA operates in over 12 countries, with dire need. FCA works with the poorest people, regardless of their religious beliefs, ethnic background or political affiliations. FCA work is based on promotion of human dignity and fundamental human rights and freedom. , implying that FCA operations are guided by equality, non-discrimination and responsibility. 

FCA’s work in Uganda focuses on promoting sustainable livelihoods, Education in emergency; development education and peace. The Uganda country program compliments Finland’s traditional concern for the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people and marginalized groups. FCA has a proven track record in supporting the very poor and vulnerable groups in Uganda since the 90s through our implementing partners. Reduction of poverty to decrease vulnerability and increase opportunity for the most marginalized and extremely vulnerable individuals is the overarching objective of the FCA Uganda country program.

About the Project 

Launched in 2004 as Orphans of Rwanda, Kepler initially supported genocide survivors and economically vulnerable youth in pursuing higher education in Rwanda. In 2013, Kepler expanded its focus to provide access to US-accredited Bachelor’s degree programs in business management, healthcare management, and communications for vulnerable populations across East Africa. In 2015, Kepler established a satellite campus in the Kiziba Refugee Camp, pioneering access to university degrees in a remote refugee camp. In 2022, Kepler College emerged, offering nationally accredited Bachelor’s degree programs in management and technology, with a specialization in project management and business analytics. Kepler identifies crucial transitional moments for African youth on the path to employment and has developed programs like preparatory support, wrap-around services, and post-graduate career training. The Iteme preparation program for secondary school graduates from vulnerable communities began in 2018, and the Graduate Employment Program (GEP) launched in 2020, enhancing soft skills for recent graduates in partnership with public polytechnic colleges. Iteme and GEP now operate in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and Rwanda.

FCA in partnership with Kepler is seeking to hire the following position  

POSITION                  : ITEME PROJECT COORDINATOR  

REPORTS TO            : COMPLIMENTARY PATHWAYS COORDINATOR 

LOCATION                : KAMPALA, UGANDA 

PRIMARY PURPOSE OF THE POSITION: As the Iteme Project Coordinator, you will play a pivotal role in leading, coordinating, and implementing all aspects of the Iteme Project within Uganda. Your passion for education, commitment to supporting vulnerable and refugee communities, and strong leadership skills will drive the success of our initiatives, empowering displaced individuals to access quality higher education and transform their lives. 

KEY RESULT AREAS                      

Program Leadership and Management:

• Oversee the successful implementation of Iteme preparation programs for refugees and other vulnerable youth, ensuring they meet established goals and objectives.
• Monitor program performance and make data-driven decisions to optimize effectiveness and impact.

Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with government authorities, UN agencies, NGOs, academic institutions, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Collaborate with key partners to identify opportunities for collaboration, resource sharing, and program expansion.
• Represent the organization at conferences, events, and meetings to advocate for refugee higher education and economic inclusion.

Team Management and Capacity Building:

• Build, lead and mentor a diverse team of program staff, providing guidance, support, and regular performance feedback.
• Identify training and development needs and collaborate with Kepler to implement capacity-building initiatives for staff.
• Foster a positive and inclusive work environment that promotes teamwork, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Financial and Operational Oversight:

• Manage the Project budget, ensuring responsible financial stewardship and resource allocation.
• In collaboration with the MEL Specialist, implement strong monitoring and evaluation systems to track program outcomes and ensure accountability.
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and organizational policies.

Advocacy and Awareness:

• Advocate for policies and initiatives that promote access to higher education for refugees and enhance their socio-economic integration.
• Raise awareness of refugee education challenges and success stories through media engagements and public events.

PERSON SPECIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in education, Management, International Development, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
• Proven experience (4+ years) in managing and implementing education programs in challenging environments, preferably with a focus on refugees.
• Teaching experience, preferably in an active pedagogy setting.
• Deep understanding of the Ugandan context, particularly regarding education and refugee issues.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, with a track record of building and leading diverse teams.
• Fluency in English and proficiency in Luganda, Kiswahili.
• Excellent written and oral communication, interpersonal and networking skills
• Working knowledge of Microsoft, Google suites, and conferencing software such as Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Zoom, etc.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure, adapt to changing circumstances, and deliver results in resource-constrained settings.
• Passion for education, social impact, and advocacy on behalf of vulnerable communities.
• Legal Right to Work in Uganda required.

HOW TO APPLY 

Interested candidates who meet above criteria are encouraged to apply using the link below

https://fca.rekrytointi.com/paikat/?o=A_A&jid=741 

At FCA we take a strong stand against sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, and any form of child abuse. Our Safeguarding Policy applies to all our staff, ensuring a safe environment for everyone involved. We also have a zero-tolerance policy for fraudulent and corrupt behaviour, as well as aid diversion. To uphold our commitment to integrity, we may screen applicants against international lists to ensure compliance with Anti-money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism requirements.  

FCA is certified against the Core Humanitarian Standard on Quality and Accountability (CHS), reflecting our dedication to maintaining the highest standards of ethics and accountability