UNESCO Hiring Associate National Project Officer

September 24, 2025

4 minutes read

UNESCO is hiring an Associate National Project Officer in New Delhi for 2025. This one-year project appointment at the Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (MGIEP) offers Indian nationals the chance to support global education, peace, and sustainable development initiatives. The position requires strong program coordination, policy advisory skills, and knowledge of international relations, education, or social sciences. Learn more about the background, job description, required qualifications, and how to apply before the September 29, 2025 deadline.

UNESCO Hiring Associate National Project Officer

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Background & Job Description

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is one of the leading UN agencies working to promote peace and sustainable societies through education, science, culture, and communication. Among its specialized institutions is the Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (MGIEP), based in New Delhi, India. MGIEP plays a key role in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4.7, which focuses on education for peace, sustainability, and global citizenship.

The Institute is globally recognized for its pioneering work in digital pedagogies, social and emotional learning (SEL), and youth engagement. By promoting innovative approaches to education, MGIEP contributes to building inclusive, peaceful, and sustainable societies across the world.

In this context, UNESCO is now inviting qualified Indian nationals to apply for the position of Associate National Project Officer. The role is designed to provide strategic support to the Director’s office, ensuring smooth coordination of programmes, communication with partners, and execution of institutional priorities. The appointment is initially for one year, with the possibility of renewal depending on performance.

This is a unique opportunity for professionals who want to be part of an international organization, engage with high-level stakeholders, and contribute to shaping global education policies and strategies.

Tasks

The Associate National Project Officer will work directly under the supervision of the Director of MGIEP. Key responsibilities include:

1. Strategic Support and Coordination

Assist the Director in monitoring programme planning, implementation, and reporting in line with the Institute’s Mid-Term Strategy and Biennial Programme.
Serve as a liaison between the Director’s office and internal/external stakeholders, including UNESCO Headquarters, field offices, ministries of education, academics, UN agencies, and other partners.
Support the formulation and execution of strategic priorities, policy initiatives, and high-level engagements.
Contribute to strategic planning processes and track progress of key initiatives.
Prepare policy briefs, analytical notes, and draft reports on cross-cutting education and development issues.

2. Office of the Director Management

Work closely with the communications team to prepare key institutional documents such as the Annual Governing Board Report, Executive Committee Report, and the Annual Report.
Draft and review official communications, speeches, talking points, and briefing notes for the Director and senior officials.
Prepare reports for UNESCO Headquarters and external partners.
Organize and coordinate meetings chaired or attended by the Director, including background research and documentation.
Collaborate with the executive assistant to manage the Director’s schedule, travel, correspondence, and related tasks.
Serve as backup for the executive assistant in her absence.
Maintain tracking systems for institutional priorities and provide regular updates to the Director.
Perform any other tasks as assigned by the supervisor.

These responsibilities require a high level of professionalism, discretion, and the ability to handle sensitive information while working in a fast-paced, multicultural environment.

Qualifications

Education and Certification

Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in international relations, public or business administration, political science, social sciences, or related fields.
A PhD in the above areas will be considered an asset.

Experience

Minimum of two (2) years of relevant experience in managing executive functions, programme coordination, or policy advisory roles.
Experience working with diverse stakeholders, preferably in multilateral organizations or the UN system, is highly desirable.

Languages

Excellent knowledge of English (written and spoken).
Very good knowledge of Hindi.
Knowledge of another UNESCO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or regional Indian languages would be an advantage.

Skills and Competencies

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with the capacity to propose innovative approaches.
Excellent organizational and coordination skills, including the ability to manage priorities and monitor tasks effectively.
Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to prepare high-level reports and presentations.
Ability to work in a team and build collaborative relationships in multicultural environments.
Familiarity with results-based management frameworks.
High level of discretion and integrity when handling confidential information.
Proficiency in MS Office, Teams, and SharePoint.

Additional Information

Contract Duration: One year, with the possibility of extension based on performance.
Salary: The annual starting salary for this post is approximately INR 3,188,100.
Benefits and Entitlements: UNESCO offers competitive benefits, which may include 30 days of annual leave, family allowances, medical insurance, and a pension plan (where applicable).
Eligibility: Only Indian nationals are eligible for this position.
Application Deadline: September 29, 2025 (Midnight Paris Time).
Recruitment Process: Candidates will undergo evaluations based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, which may include assessments, tests, and interviews (in-person or virtual). Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Workplace Culture: UNESCO upholds values of integrity, professionalism, diversity, and commitment to the organization. The agency applies a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and is committed to gender parity and workforce diversity.

Conclusion

The UNESCO Associate National Project Officer position in New Delhi offers professionals in India a rare opportunity to contribute directly to global education, peace, and sustainable development goals. By working at MGIEP, selected candidates will gain exposure to international education systems, high-level policymaking, and collaboration with stakeholders worldwide.

For Indian professionals with expertise in social sciences, administration, or international relations, this role provides the perfect platform to advance their careers while making a lasting impact on education for peace and sustainability.

Applicants are encouraged to prepare their documents carefully and submit their applications before the deadline.

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