TERMS OF REFERENCE
The purpose of this assignment is to engage a qualified Designer/Illustrator to support the development and finalization of competency-based Teaching and Learning Materials (TLMs) in Mathematics and Tajik Language for Grades 7 and 8. This work is undertaken in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Science (MoES) of the Republic of Tajikistan and UNICEF within the framework of the Education Reform Project (TJK1043 — Phase II). The assignment aims to ensure that all visual elements of the TLMs effectively enhance comprehension, engagement, and alignment with competency-based education principles.
Minimum requirements
Work Experience
- Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible experience in the design of Teaching and Learning Materials (TLMs)
- At least 7 years of demonstrated experience designing integrated TLM packages at the primary and secondary levels
- Proven experience designing and managing school-based pilots of learning materials Extended experience with designing TLM with the MOES and familiarity with the existing design and structural policies
- Prior experience with USAID, UNICEF, UNESCO, or other UN agencies, and major education donors (e.g., IsDB, GPE, FCDO, EU, World Bank) is an asset
Knowledge/Expertise/Skills
- Ability to develop and apply cohesive design systems ensuring consistency, usability, and pedagogical alignment
- Advanced design skills (layout, visual hierarchy, typography, content flow)
- Experience creating inclusive, gender-responsive, and culturally appropriate visuals
- Ability to translate complex curriculum content into clear, engaging visuals (illustrations, infos, diagrams)
- Understanding of competency-based education (CBE) and its application in design
- Experience designing child-friendly, age-appropriate materials that enhance engagement
- Proficiency in Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, and preparing print-ready files
- Experience applying templates, style guides, and design systems at scale
- Strong collaboration with curriculum developers, subject experts, and editors
- High attention to detail, including quality, copyright, and accessibility standards
- Ability to manage iterations, incorporate feedback, and meet tight deadlines
- Demonstrated familiarity with international competency-based curriculum frameworks (UNESCO CBE guidance, OECD Learning Compass and equivalent) is required.
Language Requirements
- Proficiency in Russian is required;
- Knowledge of Tajik and English is considered an asset.Working knowledge of Tajik is a strong asset, given the intensive collaboration with national expert group teams.
Where the Consultant is not proficient in Tajik, the Consultant shall demonstrate a credible plan for working effectively with Tajik-language editors and reviewers.
Desirables
- Extensive experience designing Teaching and Learning Materials (TLMs) for the Ministry of Education and Science (MOES)
- Familiarity with the education design context in Tajikistan and/or Central Asia
- Experience developing design guidelines or style guides for national-level materials
- Exposure to accessibility standards and inclusive design practices in education materials
For every Child, you demonstrate...
UNICEF does not hire candidates who are married to children (persons under 18). UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNICEF, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination based on gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background or disabilities. UNICEF is committed to promote the protection and safeguarding of all children. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles. Background checks will include the verification of academic credential(s) and employment history. Selected candidates may be required to provide additional information to conduct a background check, and selected candidates with disabilities may be requested to submit supporting documentation in relation to their disability confidentially.
- An up-to-date TMS profile and curriculum vitae (CV)
- Cover letter
- A detailed technical proposal: A maximum 5-page technical proposal , articulating the proposed approach to: a)Design Concept b) iteractive review architecture c) Grade 8 of textbook pilot design.
Remarks
UNICEF does not charge a processing fee at any stage of its recruitment, selection, and hiring processes (i.e., application stage, interview stage, validation stage, or appointment and training). UNICEF will not ask for applicants’ bank account information.
All UNICEF positions are advertised, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process.