UNICEF International Consultant for AI Solutions for Education Data Management 2026 – Remote Consultancy in Nigeria
Organisation: United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)
Position: International Consultant for AI Solutions for Education Data Management
Job ID: 596456
Location: Abuja, Nigeria
Contract Type: Consultancy
Duration: 12 months
Work Arrangement: Remote with travel
Category: Education
Date Published: 21 October 2026
Application Deadline: 28 October 2026
UNICEF AI Education Data Management Consultancy 2026
UNICEF is inviting applications for an International Consultant for AI Solutions for Education Data Management, a 12-month consultancy supporting the development and integration of artificial intelligence into education data systems in Nigeria. The opportunity is based in Abuja, with a remote working arrangement and travel requirements.
This consultancy is suited to experienced technology and data specialists who have expertise in artificial intelligence, education management information systems, software development, data analytics and digital transformation. The successful consultant will help strengthen the systems used to collect, analyse and monitor education data, supporting more effective education planning and decision-making.
The assignment offers an opportunity to contribute to UNICEF’s work advancing children’s right to education by helping improve the digital infrastructure that supports education sector management.
About UNICEF
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) works in more than 190 countries and territories to protect children’s rights, improve their well-being and help them reach their full potential.
Through its education programmes, UNICEF supports efforts to expand access to quality learning, strengthen education systems and improve outcomes for children, particularly those facing disadvantage.
In Nigeria, reliable education data is important for identifying gaps in access, monitoring sector performance and informing policy decisions. AI-enabled tools and stronger digital systems can help education authorities use available information more effectively.
Key Responsibilities
Working under the supervision of the Chief of Education, the international consultant will undertake six main areas of work.
1. Inception and Design
The consultant will undertake the initial assessment and design activities required to establish the assignment’s technical direction. This includes defining the approach for developing AI solutions that respond to education data management needs.
2. AI Development and Integration
The successful candidate will support the development and integration of artificial intelligence solutions into relevant education data systems. The work will focus on improving how education information is managed and used.
3. Pilot Implementation and Refinement
The consultant will support the piloting of proposed solutions, assess their performance and refine the tools based on findings and implementation requirements.
4. DHIS2 Technical Review and National Capacity Development
The assignment includes a technical review of DHIS2 systems and support for strengthening national technical capacity. Candidates should have practical expertise in education management information systems (EMIS), particularly DHIS2 implementation, configuration, administration and technical support.
5. Digital Sector Plans and Performance Monitoring
The consultant will contribute to digital sector planning and the development or improvement of performance-monitoring tools. This work will support the use of data to assess progress and inform education sector decisions.
6. Deployment and Handover
The final stage will involve deploying the developed solutions and facilitating their handover to relevant stakeholders, supporting continuity and effective use beyond the consultancy period.
Applicants should consult the official Terms of Reference for the full scope of work, deliverables and technical requirements.
Eligibility Criteria and Qualifications
UNICEF is seeking a highly experienced professional with advanced technical qualifications and a strong track record in digital systems, AI development and education data management.
Educational Requirements
Applicants must hold an advanced university degree in one of the following fields or a related discipline:
- Computer Science
- Data Science
- Data Analytics
- Statistics
- Another relevant field
Work Experience
Candidates must demonstrate the following experience:
- At least 10 years of experience supporting digital systems, data systems and software development, including system architecture, configurations, integrations, source code and technical documentation for national data systems.
- At least five years of experience developing and implementing AI-enabled digital solutions.
- At least five years of experience in data analysis, data visualisation and the development of user-friendly digital tools.
- Demonstrated experience supporting education sector management through the development of digital monitoring and evaluation tools.
Technical Skills and Expertise
Applicants should have strong practical expertise in Education Management Information Systems (EMIS), particularly DHIS2 platforms. Experience should cover system implementation, configuration, system administration and technical support.
The role also requires the ability to design, develop and integrate AI solutions, work with complex data systems and produce technical documentation.
Language Requirements
Strong communication skills in English are required.
Desirable Experience
Previous experience working with UNICEF or other international organisations will be an advantage.
Required Application Documents
Qualified candidates must submit their applications through UNICEF’s online recruitment portal, the Talent Management System (TMS).
The required documents are:
- Updated CV and TMS profile: Ensure your professional experience, qualifications and technical skills are clearly presented.
- Cover letter: Explain your suitability for the consultancy, highlighting relevant experience in AI, national data systems, EMIS, DHIS2 and education-sector monitoring.
- Financial proposal: Complete and submit the financial proposal using UNICEF’s prescribed template. Proposals must follow the format of the linked document.
Applicants should carefully review the Terms of Reference and financial proposal template before submitting their applications.
Application Deadline
The closing date for this consultancy is 28 October 2026, according to the vacancy announcement. The position was advertised on 21 October 2026.
Interested candidates should prepare their application documents and submit them before the deadline.
APPLY ON THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE
Important Information for Applicants
UNICEF does not charge application, recruitment, interview, processing or training fees at any stage of its hiring process. Applicants should use official UNICEF recruitment channels and exercise caution when dealing with anyone requesting payment or sensitive financial information.
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage of the recruitment process. UNICEF also conducts background and reference checks, including verification of academic qualifications and employment history.
Final Thoughts
The UNICEF International Consultant for AI Solutions for Education Data Management position presents an opportunity for experienced AI, data and digital systems specialists to contribute to education-sector development in Nigeria.
Professionals with advanced qualifications, substantial experience in AI-enabled solutions and practical expertise in EMIS and DHIS2 should review the Terms of Reference carefully to assess their suitability.
With a 12-month duration and a remote-plus-travel arrangement, this consultancy may appeal to international specialists interested in applying technology to strengthen education data systems and improve evidence-based planning.
