In-Country Lead
Cook Islands Campus
Position Number: TLD024
The Opportunity
The University of the South Pacific invites suitably qualified applicants for the In-Country Lead position based in the Cook Islands.
The appointee will be responsible for: Leading the planning, implementation and reporting of the in-country MFAT-funded project BTCIE (Building Teaching Capacity in Inclusive Education, now named the TUPU/TUBU Project under the leadership and guidance of the Director of the Institute of Education. Provide advice and conduct research to continually improve the Institute of Educations' approach in all matters relating to inclusive education in the Cook Islands. Create awareness of inclusive education through various platforms and represent the Institute in national contexts.
The incumbent is expected to operate under the direct supervision of the Director of the Institute of Education and report directly to the Director of the Institute of Education as well. He/she is expected to be efficient in the performance of the stated responsibilities within the Institute of Education with the following required competencies:
- Knowledge and understanding of Cook Islands cultures, values, beliefs, and knowledge systems;
- Ability to work effectively in the Cook Islands context and as an active team player;
- Research capability and experience with Inclusive Education development;
- Good interpersonal and communication skills;
- Demonstrated leadership and management capabilities.
Specific Duties
- Lead the planning, implementation and reporting of the in-country MFAT-funded project BTCIE under the leadership and guidance of the Inclusive Education Fellow;
- Provide advice and conduct research to continually improve the Institute of Education's approach in all matters relating to inclusive education in Cook Islands;
- Provide advice, assist and participate in the development in Cook Islands, relevant to inclusive education;
- Contribute to any of the member countries or regional areas of inclusive education by inputting and representation from a Cook Islands context;
- Identify assignments and potential projects in inclusive education, as well as participating in writing proposals for such identified assignments and projects for Cook Islands;
- Promote and create awareness of inclusive education through various platforms in the context of Cook Islands;
- Represent the Institute in national contexts;
- Participate in the writing of scholarly and technical articles, including learning materials for Inclusive Education.
The Person we Seek
To be considered for this position, applicants must have:
- A degree and postgraduate qualifications from a relevant discipline such as Education, preferably Inclusive Education; and
- Four (4) years of relevant experience and management expertise – specifically in the Education, Health or Social Work sectors.
Desirable qualifications and experience:
- Preferably a Master qualification in Inclusive Education or a relevant field with a strong background in education and development;
- Demonstrated experience with inclusive related development in Cook Islands or for at least one Pacific Island country;
- Experience in co-designing and co-writing project proposals and project reports;
- Fluency in writing and speaking the Cook Islands Maori language and English;
- Good computer literacy skills;
- Experience in team leadership and management of geographically dispersed teams;
- Strong coordination and organizational skills with ability to oversee multiple concurrent initiatives;
- Excellent communication skills with demonstrated ability to mentor and develop staff.
Enquiries and further information: Jamie Sa; Email: jamie.sa@usp.ac.fj
The position is available for fixed term till February 2028 and may be renewed by mutual agreement, subject to successful performance outcomes and availability of funds.
Salary Range
- NZ$51,362 to NZ$61,636 per annum
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is: 15 June 2025
How to Apply
Click the Apply button to apply for this position online.
The advertisement criteria is available on our University website (www.usp.ac.fj) under Employment Opportunities.
Please include the following documents in your application: Academic Credentials/Transcripts, Cover letter clearly addressing key Selection Criteria and Resume with names of three referees, one of which must be your current or most recent direct work supervisor. Referees will only be contacted if you are selected.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
The University of the South Pacific is committed to providing a safe, inclusive and equitable environment that protects the rights of children; nurture, promote and facilitate mutual respect, constructive empowerment and progress amongst its employees, students, stakeholders including visitors, without being hampered by any form of sexual harassment, sexual abuse or sexual exploitation. We reserve the right to conduct police checks and other screening procedures to ensure a safe environment.
USP is an equal opportunity employer and seeks to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities to work in an inclusive environment. USP encourages all qualified candidates to apply regardless of their racial, ethnic, religious and cultural background, gender, sexual orientation or disabilities.
