Two Junior Researchers to support the “Diagnostic Assessment” on the dual education system in Kosovo

Location: Pristina, Kosovo

Who We Are:

IREX is a global development and education organization. We strive for a more just, prosperous, and inclusive world—where individuals reach their full potential, governments serve their people, and communities thrive. With a projected annual portfolio of more than $100 million and more than 600 staff worldwide, we work with partners in more than 100 countries in four areas essential to progress: cultivating leaders, empowering youth, strengthening institutions, and increasing access to quality education and information.

Background of Private Sector-Led Workforce Development Activity in Kosovo:

The USAID Private Sector-Led Workforce Development Activity (the Activity) in Kosovo, further referred to as the Activity, aims to harness the private sector's leadership to build sustainable and innovative models to develop the Kosovo workforce in three sectors: Agribusiness, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), and Wood Processing. One of the first activities of the Activity was the establishment of the Sector Workforce Councils for the three sectors, which are led by the selected sector Associations.[1] Their role is to unite the private sector, educators, government, diaspora, civil society organizations, and donors, aiming to define sector workforce development needs and support workforce development solutions. To lead the dialogue and advocacy with the government, one of the main activities of each sector Council is to prepare a Policy Action Plan, which will be developed and managed by the Policy Working Groups (PWG). Each target sector has established a PWG, composed of selected members of the Council.

Summary of Responsibilities:

IREX is seeking two qualified junior researchers who will work with the Activity and Policy Working Groups to conduct a “diagnostic assessment” on piloting the dual education system in Kosovo and identify best practices from other countries in implementing such a system. Additionally, the researchers will be engaged with the Councils and private sector aiming from their perspective to get input in implementing the dual education system and identify the opportunities, and challenges. The assessment includes a desk review and on-field research with the private sector businesses, government entities, donors, and other stakeholders as identified. The researchers will work under the guidance of the legal Consultant engaged by the Activity, to support the PWGs in policy dialogue with the Government.

Main researcher responsibilities:

1. Work with the Activity and Policy Working Groups to assess the piloting of the dual education system in Kosovo

Under the guidance of the legal Consultant, the researcher will be engaged with the private sector, government institutions, and donors, to get input in implementing the dual education system and identify the opportunities, and challenges.

1. Desk review of current legal regulations and identify and assess best practices of the dual education system in other countries

Under the guidance of the legal Consultant, conduct a desk review of current legal regulations in Kosovo, identify gaps, and assess best practices of the dual education system in other countries.

1. Interview relevant stakeholders and organize focus groups and other data collection events.

Under the guidance of the legal Consultant and in coordination with the Activity, Council Leads, and PWGs, researchers will organize interviews with relevant stakeholders from the private sector, and other stakeholders as identified. Other data-gathering events may be organized if such a need arises.

1. Support the drafting of the “diagnostic assessment” report on dual education

Under the guidance of the legal Consultant, and with the input of PWGs, will support developing the diagnostic assessment report on dual education.

1. Other duties as assigned.

This engagement is expected to include up to 25 days of effort per junior researcher, distributed from February to June 2024.

Required qualifications and experience:

• A Bachelor's degree (completed or in progress), preferably in public administration, public policy, management, law and government, or another relevant field.
• Experience of previously working on research or projects.
• Excellent analytical, writing, and communication skills in English.
• Ability to work effectively with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
• Proven track record of delivering high-quality research services on time.
• Proactivity and openness to communicate and accommodate new requests.

Expected deliverables:

1. Work with the Activity and Policy Working Groups to assess the piloting of the dual education system in Kosovo.
2. Desk review of current legal regulations and identify and assess best practices of the dual education system in other countries.
3. Interview relevant stakeholders and organize focus groups and other data collection events.
4. Support the drafting of the “diagnostic assessment” report on dual education.
5. Other responsibilities as assigned.

Mode of engagement:

The junior researchers will coordinate activities with the Activity, PWGs, and relevant Council Leads in person and/or remotely.

Application submission instructions:

1. CV thaat emphasizes relevant experience for this assignment.
2. Cover Letter briefly outlining general information about the researcher, limited to 1 page
3. Proposed gross daily rate in Euro.
4. Schedule of availability.

Use [email protected] email to apply. This position is open until filled. For best consideration apply by, 26 January 2024.

NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE

[1] The Associations of Fruits and Vegetables of Kosovo (PePeKo)

The Kosovo Association of Information and Communication Technology (STIKK)

The Association of Wood Processors of Kosovo (AWPK)