Early Childhood Development (ECD) Assistant
Organization: International Rescue Committee (IRC)
Location: Kyegegwa, Uganda
Duration: March 21, 2024 – April 5, 2024
About the International Rescue Committee (IRC): The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has been granted $10 million by the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation for the implementation of a three-year project called ‘Kulea Watoto,’ meaning ‘nurturing children.’ This initiative aims to enhance early childhood development and improve livelihoods for refugees and host communities in Uganda. Through nurturing care, early childhood learning opportunities, and skills-building for income generation, the project will utilize a unique two-generation approach. IRC is partnering with four local organizations—AfriChild Centre, Madrasa Early Childhood Program, Kabarole Research and Resource Centre, and Literacy and Adult Basic Education (LABE)—to achieve these goals.
Position Overview: The ECD Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of ECD activities in Kyaka II refugee settlement and the surrounding host community. This role requires experience in community mobilization, ECD activity implementation in refugee settings, and a deep understanding of early childhood development and responsive caregiving. The ECD Assistant will report to the ECD Officer and collaborate closely with the Kulea Watoto project team and partner organizations to ensure seamless integration of activities.
Key Responsibilities:
Technical Implementation of Project Activities:
- Identify, select, and register target clients for Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) groups.
- Mobilize target clients and groups through community project structures for responsive caregiving and early learning opportunities.
- Lead the daily and weekly implementation of activities as per the approved work plan.
- Support parents and caregivers in providing responsive caregiving and early learning to children under five years old.
- Develop ECCD improvement plans with ECCD providers/caregivers and volunteers.
- Provide essential materials to parent groups and ECCD providers.
- Conduct training sessions for parents/caregivers on responsive caregiving and early learning.
- Identify ECCD services and facilitate the linkage of target clients to these services.
- Supervise ECD infrastructure improvement activities and ensure enhanced learning outcomes.
- Establish supervised care groups in collaboration with partners.
- Train and support management committees of ECD schools in providing ECCD services.
- Oversee actions by Community ECD Groups and ensure adherence to plans.
- Mobilize and sensitize ECD local committees on seed fund disbursement.
- Supervise the utilization of ECD seed grants as per approved plans.
- Develop and deliver play and supervise care groups at ECD Centers.
- Undertake additional tasks as delegated by the supervisor.
Coordination, Representation, and Partner/Stakeholder Relationships:
- Collaborate closely with field-based team members and ensure consistency in protocols and reporting systems.
- Participate in coordination efforts at project location/zonal levels.
- Work with partner staff to deliver project activities and achieve desired outcomes.
- Maintain positive relations with partner organizations, local authorities, and humanitarian actors.
- Attend coordination meetings and provide detailed reports as required.
Monitoring, Reporting, and Communication:
- Monitor ECCD performance and document best practices, lessons learned, and success stories.
- Prepare weekly and monthly program reports for submission.
- Collect relevant data during project implementation and provide regular updates.
- Monitor client payment processes at designated locations.
- Participate in data collection activities, assessments, and surveys as needed.
Other Duties:
- Raise purchase requests as required.
- Participate in team meetings and supervision sessions.
- Ensure readiness of materials for information sessions and activities.
- Collaborate constructively within the team and take initiative on new tasks.
- Report concerns or incidents promptly to IRC management.
- Maintain professional relations with team members and external parties.
Qualifications:
- Education: Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Development, Education, Social Sciences, or related field. A certificate in Early Childhood Development education with 2 years of work experience will be considered.
- Personal Characteristics: Ability to work effectively in refugee contexts, promote teamwork, adaptability to multicultural environments, and handle pressure well.
- Language Skills: Fluency in English (both written and spoken) is required. Knowledge of the local language is desired, and proficiency in other local languages (Arabic, etc.) is an advantage.
Work Hours: 8 hours per day
Experience: 36 months
Application Procedure: Interested candidates who meet the above qualifications are encouraged to apply by sending:
- Updated CV
- Cover Letter
- Relevant Certificates or Diplomas
Applications should be sent via Email to: agilemediaafrica@gmail.com or via Whatsapp to: +256781537996
Application Deadline: 30th March 2024
At IRC, we are committed to creating positive change in the lives of vulnerable communities. Join our team and be part of our mission to enhance early childhood development and empower communities for a brighter future.
