UNESCO is inviting applications for a Programme Assistant to support the planning and delivery of the 2027 UNESCO World Conference on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), which will take place in Nairobi, Kenya, from 13–15 January 2027, with a Youth Conference scheduled for 12 January 2027.

The successful candidate will work with UNESCO’s Education Sector and the UNESCO Regional Office for Eastern Africa to provide programme, administrative, coordination and logistical support for the conference. The assignment will involve working closely with UNESCO headquarters, the National Planning Committee, invited participants, travel agencies, hotels and other service providers to help ensure the successful delivery of the event.

The Programme Assistant will support participant invitations and registration, communicate with conference participants, coordinate travel arrangements, collect travel documents, assist with ticket purchases and provide participants with travel and logistical information. The role will also involve supporting visa processing and preparing information for participants in English, French and Spanish.

The successful candidate will further assist with conference logistics, including venue arrangements, interpretation, accommodation, conference packages, transportation, food and beverage services and conference documentation. They will help prepare relevant contracts, maintain records, track preparatory activities, monitor progress and identify potential risks. During the conference, the Programme Assistant will also provide on-site coordination and operational support.

Applicants should hold a Bachelor’s degree in education, international relations, social sciences, public administration or a related field. They should have at least three years of relevant professional experience supporting project coordination, management, implementation and monitoring. Previous experience with a UN agency or international organization is considered an advantage.

Candidates should demonstrate strong communication, planning and organizational, teamwork, accountability, innovation, knowledge-sharing and results-focused skills. Excellent written and spoken English is required, while knowledge of another UN language is an added advantage.

The position is offered under a 6-month Service Contract at SC5 level and is based on site in Nairobi, Kenya. The opportunity is open to external candidates.

To apply, candidates must complete the online application through the UNESCO recruitment portal and submit a current CV, a cover letter of no more than two pages explaining their suitability for the assignment, and contact details for two professional referees. The additional documents should be submitted by email with the subject “UNESCO ROEA Vacancy Notice - ED World Conference on ESD”.

The application deadline is 23 August 2026 at midnight UTC+3. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. UNESCO is an equal opportunities employer and particularly encourages applications from women and candidates from underrepresented groups.

Position: Programme Assistant
Organization: UNESCO
Hiring Unit: Education Sector (ED)
Contract Type: Service Contract
Level: SC5
Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya
Work Location: On site
Contract Duration: 6 months
Conference: 2027 UNESCO World Conference on Education for Sustainable Development
Conference Dates: 13–15 January 2027
Youth Conference: 12 January 2027
Deadline: 23 August 2026
Eligible Applicants: External candidates

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