Senior Education Officer – Policy & Advocacy

About the role

The International Rescue Committee is seeking a Senior Education Officer to lead policy and advocacy work for the PlayMatters 3.0 initiative in South Sudan. The role focuses on integrating Learning through Play into national and sub‑national education systems, ensuring that children in crisis‑affected areas have access to safe, inclusive, quality learning.

Key responsibilities

• Identify, engage and influence key education stakeholders, including the Ministry of General Education and Instruction, teacher training institutes and coordination platforms.
• Promote the adoption and scaling of Learning through Play within existing policies, frameworks and sector priorities.
• Represent IRC in education clusters, local education groups and partner meetings to align approaches and secure support.
• Develop policy briefs, advocacy strategies and monitoring tools to track uptake and impact.
• Collaborate with consortium partners (War Child Alliance, Plan International) and humanitarian actors to ensure coordinated implementation.

Required profile

• Advanced degree in Education, Public Policy, International Development or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in education policy, advocacy or program management, preferably in humanitarian or post‑conflict settings.
• Demonstrated knowledge of South Sudan’s education system and policy environment.
• Proven ability to build relationships with government officials, donors and NGOs.
• Strong analytical and written communication skills.

Required skills