Lead, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) – Nairobi, Kenya – 2025

Lead, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) – Nairobi, Kenya

Position Details:

• Position: Lead, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Type of Job: Full-Time
• Job Category: Education and Training
• Reporting to: Head, Country Programs
• Application Deadline: January 6, 2025

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About Mastercard Foundation

Mastercard Foundation envisions a world where everyone has the opportunity to learn and prosper. Through its Young Africa Works strategy and Canadian EleV program, the Foundation collaborates with partners to ensure millions of young people, especially young women, access quality education, financial services, and dignified work. Established in 2006, Mastercard Foundation operates as an independent organization with its own Board of Directors and CEO.

The Foundation’s Mission

At Mastercard Foundation, the mission is to empower 30 million young people in Africa to secure dignified and fulfilling employment through the Young Africa Works strategy. Offices in Rwanda, Kenya, Ghana, Senegal, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Uganda provide localized support to achieve this mission. The Foundation collaborates with governments, private sector entities, educators, and funders to:

• Enhance education quality and vocational training.
• Equip youth with skills needed for the workforce.
• Expand access to financial services for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
• Connect job seekers with meaningful employment opportunities.

Mastercard Foundation’s core values inspire bold ideas, curiosity, and expertise, creating a vibrant space for innovation and collaboration.

If you are a passionate and experienced professional in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), this opportunity is for you!

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The Opportunity

As the Lead, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), you will report to the Head, Country Programs and drive partnership design and implementation in the TVET space. Your role will be instrumental in integrating TVET and skilling initiatives into the Foundation’s Young Africa Works programs, ensuring alignment with labor market demands. This position involves engaging with government agencies, TVET institutions, and other stakeholders to foster a robust TVET ecosystem that supports youth employability and entrepreneurship.

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Key Responsibilities

As a Lead, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), your primary responsibilities include:

1. Program Design and Development:
   • Develop programs integrating technical skills training, entrepreneurial skills, and soft skills to prepare youth for the workforce.
   • Incorporate sector-specific skilling initiatives in industries like agrifood systems, cottage industries, and manufacturing.
2. Partnership Building:
   • Cultivate partnerships with government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and TVET institutions to enhance collaboration.
   • Facilitate alignment of TVET curricula with industry demands and future job market trends.
3. Stakeholder Engagement:
   • Promote inclusion for marginalized groups, such as women, youth with disabilities, and refugees.
   • Lead engagement with senior leaders from public and private sectors.
4. Program Implementation:
   • Oversee implementation to ensure alignment with timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
   • Drive efforts to measure youth employment outcomes and equitable program access.
5. Policy and Advocacy:
   • Document lessons learned and best practices to inform policy improvements.
   • Influence education policy and advocate for better alignment between TVET systems and market needs.

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Qualifications and Skills

To excel in this role, you should possess the following qualifications and skills:

1. Educational Background:
   • A Master’s degree in Education, Management, Economic Development, or related fields.
2. Professional Experience:
   • Minimum 10 years of experience in education policy, TVET ecosystem management, or similar fields.
   • Proven success in leading complex policy and strategy dialogues.
   • Experience in program design and implementation within the Kenyan TVET context.
3. Core Competencies:
   • Strong leadership, supervisory, and team management skills.
   • Expertise in education-focused program development.
   • Exceptional skills in stakeholder engagement and partnership building.
4. Technical Skills:
   • Advanced analytical, critical thinking, and strategic planning abilities.
   • Expertise in quantitative and qualitative business analytics.
   • Proficiency in budgeting and managing large portfolios.
5. Soft Skills:
   • Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities.
   • Professional maturity and cultural sensitivity.

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Company Culture and Values

Mastercard Foundation fosters a values-driven culture centered on inclusion, innovation, and collaboration. The Foundation’s commitment to creating a diverse and equitable work environment ensures employees thrive while contributing to meaningful projects that positively impact communities.

Join a team where bold ideas and innovative solutions shape the future of education and employment in Africa.

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How to Apply

Interested in making a difference? Apply now by submitting your application through the “Apply for Job” button below. Applications close on January 6, 2025.

We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all backgrounds. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

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Expertly Crafted Sample Cover Letter

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]

Hiring Manager
Mastercard Foundation
[Company Address]
Nairobi, Kenya

Re: Application for Lead, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my enthusiasm for the position of Lead, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) at Mastercard Foundation. With over 10 years of experience in education policy, program development, and the TVET ecosystem, I am confident in my ability to contribute to the Foundation’s mission of empowering African youth through transformative education strategies.

My professional journey has been deeply rooted in advancing youth employability through collaborative initiatives. As a skilled program designer, I have successfully integrated technical and entrepreneurial skills training into various curricula, fostering alignment with industry demands. My role in managing partnerships with government agencies, TVET institutions, and private sector stakeholders has honed my ability to build and sustain relationships that drive systemic change.

Notably, my work in Kenya’s TVET ecosystem has included developing strategies that promote inclusivity for marginalized groups and ensuring program outcomes are measurable and impactful. My leadership skills, coupled with a passion for equipping youth with the tools for success, align seamlessly with Mastercard Foundation’s values and vision.

I am particularly drawn to the Foundation’s commitment to aligning education programs with labor market demands and its emphasis on fostering partnerships within diverse sectors. I am eager to bring my analytical expertise, strategic planning abilities, and dedication to excellence to your team.

I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and experiences align with the goals of Mastercard Foundation. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]