UNESCO’s Communication and Information Sector (CI) is Seeking a Consultant – AI for the Public Sector (Up to €3,100/month)

Location: Paris, France
Sector: Communication and Information (CI)
Contract Type: Consultant (Non-staff)
Duration: 7–11 months
Application Deadline: 5 August 2025
Start Date: 1 September 2025 (subject to funding availability)
Monthly Fee: Up to €3,100
Work Commitment: Full-time
Travel: May be required and covered by UNESCO

About UNESCO and the Role

UNESCO’s Communication and Information Sector (CI) promotes freedom of expression, universal access to information, media development, and knowledge societies. Within this sector, digital transformation and the ethical application of artificial intelligence (AI) are critical focus areas, particularly in supporting public sector innovation.

Following the adoption of the Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence by all UNESCO Member States in 2021, the organization has prioritized supporting governments in integrating AI in a transparent, ethical, and accountable manner. A key initiative in this effort is the SPARK-AI Alliance, a global network dedicated to training public servants in AI governance and digital transformation.

To support implementation of the African Union’s Continental AI Strategy and the Rabat Consensus, UNESCO—together with the AI Movement (a Category 2 Centre)—is delivering a comprehensive capacity-building program for public sector executives across Africa. The Consultant will play a key role in advancing this work.

Key Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Chief of Digital Policies and Digital Transformation, and in close coordination with UNESCO Category 2 Centres and field offices, the Consultant will:

• Support project management for AI-related public sector initiatives, including planning, communications, networking, and reporting to donors.
• Assist in developing the UNESCO AI curriculum for public sector executives, including Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs).
• Coordinate with partners in Brazil, Morocco, and Slovenia to develop learning materials.
• Support the development of strategic partnerships with public institutions, academia, civil society, and the private sector.
• Assist in implementing training based on UNESCO’s AI and Digital Transformation Competency Framework for Civil Servants.
• Contribute to the SPARK-AI Alliance through organizing workshops, adapting competency frameworks, creating a knowledge hub, and expanding the global network of schools of public administration focused on AI.
• Conduct research and prepare technical briefs, participate in events, and provide expert advice on digital transformation in the public sector.

The consultant will be required to submit monthly progress reports documenting the implementation of assigned tasks.

Qualifications and Experience

Education:

• Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in public policy, law, technology, project management, or a related field.
• Training or certification in instructional design or online education development is desirable.

Work Experience:

• At least two years of relevant professional experience in international development, AI policy, or digital transformation.
• Minimum one year of experience in project coordination at the international level or within the UN system.
• Prior involvement in capacity-building programs or digital development initiatives in Africa or Latin America is an asset.

Skills:

• Strong project management, coordination, and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication, drafting, and presentation abilities.
• Demonstrated experience working in multicultural and international environments.
• Proficiency in developing partnerships and fundraising initiatives.

Languages:

• Fluency in English is required.
• Working knowledge of French and/or Spanish is highly desirable.

Additional Information

• Candidates must be based in Paris or have legal authorization to live and work in France. UNESCO cannot provide visa support or relocation costs.
• The position requires full-time commitment.
• Travel related to the assignment may be required and will be covered by UNESCO.

Application Process

Interested applicants must submit:

Part 1: Technical Proposal

• Updated CV (max 2 pages)
• Cover letter detailing suitability for the assignment (1 page)
• One-page summary outlining an approach to project management and the development of a MOOC on AI in the public sector

Part 2: Financial Proposal

• Monthly fee quote in EUR or USD (maximum €3,100/month)
• Total lump-sum cost for the 11-month contract

Incomplete applications or submissions lacking technical and financial proposals will not be considered.

Applicants should apply via the UNESCO careers portal. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The selection process may include a written assessment and competency-based interview.

UNESCO’s Commitment

UNESCO is committed to achieving the highest standards of integrity, efficiency, and professionalism. The organization upholds principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion and encourages applications from underrepresented member states, minority groups, indigenous communities, and persons with disabilities. UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment and does not charge any fee at any recruitment stage.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.