International Consultancy to Strengthen the Regulatory Framework for Equity and School Dropout Prevention

About the role

UNICEF is seeking an International Consultant to assist the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation of Montenegro in enhancing the regulatory framework that promotes equitable, inclusive education and prevents school dropout and early school leaving. The consultant will work remotely with occasional travel to Podgorica.

Key responsibilities

• Review existing legislation and policies related to school dropout, early school leaving, and educational exclusion.
• Identify gaps in policy implementation and cross‑sectoral coordination among education, health, social protection, and child protection.
• Develop evidence‑based recommendations and a practical implementation roadmap aligned with national priorities and international standards.
• Provide analysis of early identification, referral mechanisms, case management, data collection, and monitoring systems.
• Support the Ministry and relevant agencies in adopting proposed regulatory measures.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in Education policy, pedagogy or a related field.
• Minimum eight years of professional experience in education policy, systems strengthening, or pedagogy.
• Demonstrated expertise in equity in education, inclusive education, and dropout prevention.
• Strong knowledge of cross‑sectoral issues (education, health, child protection, social protection).
• Familiarity with the Montenegrin education context is an asset.

Required skills

• Policy analysis and legislative review.
• Data analysis and evidence synthesis.
• Report writing and presentation.

What we offer

• Opportunity to influence national education reforms.
• Collaboration with UNICEF and government stakeholders.
• Competitive consultancy remuneration.