Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
References
Timeline
Generic
Kalsum Ijoru

Kalsum Ijoru

Arua,Uganda

Summary

  • I have accumulated 18 years of practical experience in refugee operations as an Education Officer, Program Manager, Protection Associate, Senior Community-Based Protection Assistant, and now as an Assistant Education Officer with UNHCR. Some of the key achievements that have prepared me for this position include knowledge of how to implement UNHCR’s Refugee Education Strategy and Global Compact on Refugees (GCR) to promote equitable and sustainable inclusion in national systems. For example, I have explicitly participated in drafting the Education Response Plan (ERP) for refugees and hosts in Uganda, supported the establishment and orientation of district ERP steering committees for Koboko, Terego, and Madi-Okollo districts to focus on equitable and inclusive access to learning opportunities, quality education, and system strengthening. In 2012, I linked stakeholders to the Forum for Education NGOs in Uganda (FENU), who influenced the government on refugee education. Submitted to the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoEs) a list of potential schools in Rhino-12, Lobule-01, and Rhino 08 for equating and coding. Ably organized meetings with partners and other stakeholders to advocate for resources, offered mentorship training to stakeholders on the refugee plight, drafted proposals, concept notes, and budgets to mobilize resources, and continuously advocated for the participation of beneficiaries in the planning, implementation, and monitoring of projects to enhance the principle of accountability to the affected population (AAP). Trained stakeholders on UNHCR’s Age, Gender, and Diversity tool to inform programming. Broadcasted on the abridged curriculum, double shift, accelerated education program, ensured that data on gross and net enrollments are tracked, reported, as well as measuring the efficiency ratios. Drafted routine correspondence, and compiled daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual reports. Closely monitored and reported on donor earmarked and non-earmarked funds to support education, for example: Educate a Child Fund, Education Cannot Wait Fund, PROSPECTS Fund, ECHO funds, among others.
  • Dynamic and results-oriented education officer committed to promoting a passion for learning and creating multicultural academic goals. Developed and implemented education plans to align with diverse learning styles and abilities. Empowered learners to succeed and realize individual goals. Well-qualified, with many years of progressive experience in education. Service-oriented and relationship-driven with good administrative and customer service skills.
  • I have good decision-making, critical thinking, and personnel management skills. Innovative professional offering strong educational background and experience. Effective at providing quality academic and career advice based on individual student needs while fostering motivational learning environment. Deeply committed to optimizing student success.
  • Innovative Education Administrator with diverse experience in overseeing academic programs and enhancing educational operations. Skilled in developing effective policies, managing staff, and fostering collaborative environments that encourage better educational outcomes.
  • I have led teams in achieving goals through strategic planning and efficient resource management, contributing to the overall improvement of educational institutions. Experienced Education Officer with a background in administering academic programs, developing staff training materials, and ensuring compliance with educational laws and standards. Driven Education Administrator with strong leadership qualities and focus on achieving program goals. Oversaw internal administrative activities through program planning, guidance, and leadership. Expert at coordinating programs, and highly organized with the vision and enthusiasm to achieve program goals and objectives.
  • Excel at communication, critical thinking, and adaptability, ensuring effective leadership in diverse and multisectoral programming.

Overview

21
21
years of professional experience

Work History

Assistant Education Officer

UNHCR
Arua, Uganda
03.2023 - Current
  • Provided strategic and technical guidance to UNHCR management and partners on holistic learning modalities and solutions for education, including capacity building, and the provision of formal and non-formal education.
  • Participated in the development and review of the National and District Education Response Plans I and II, which were aimed at enhancing access to quality education for both refugee and host community children.
  • Ensured and monitored the implementation of the Education Response Plan in the District Local Governments (Terego, Madi Okollo, Koboko, and Yumbe).
  • Supported in resource mobilization for the education sector through the private sectors, and the internal and external stakeholders, such as government counterparts, UN agencies, partners, and donors.
  • Supported the Office in developing the inclusion strategy as part of a sustainable solution to better educational outcomes.
  • Ensured greater access to quality learning opportunities and education, and carried out regular field missions to build and maintain networks within the communities of beneficiaries, national/local authorities, and support partners with the education activities.
  • Promoting equitable and sustainable inclusion in national education systems for refugees, asylum seekers, and internally displaced persons.
  • Fostered safe, enabling environments that support learning and enable learners to use their education toward sustainable futures.
  • Ensured programs use a child protection systems approach to protect vulnerable populations.
  • I initiated education sector working coordination platforms to strengthen coordination and networking, review policy documents with relevant actors in education, including the Ministry of Education and Sports, and private sector organizations. Regularly updated the education gap matrix to track efficiency ratios, and monitored performance.
  • I drafted concept notes and budget documents to mobilize resources, advocated for stakeholder participation in planning, and implemented initiatives aimed at protecting students' well-being, including teenage pregnancy management approaches in schools, anti-bullying programs, and mental health support.
  • I promoted community involvement and collaboration to strengthen the education system and support peaceful coexistence among refugee and host communities. Enhanced networking and advocacy with relevant actors to integrate refugee education into government systems, which is more sustainable.
  • I developed and implemented programs to recruit and retain qualified teachers in refugee-hosting districts, addressing teacher gaps. Promoted inclusive teaching practices to cater to the needs of all students, regardless of gender or disability.
  • I successfully profiled, coordinated, and monitored complementary projects to improve educational outcomes, such as Convoy of HOPE, Language Resilience, Education Can't Wait, Education Management, BRIDGE, ECHO, Education in Emergency, and Uganda Secondary Education Expansion Program (USEEP).
  • I lobbied and collaborated with other education actors and local authorities for the expansion of classroom infrastructure, the provision of learning materials, scholarship opportunities for vulnerable learners, and capacity-building opportunities for teachers.
  • Coordinated with partners, and other actors in education, to adapt the Education Strategy to the local context and ensure ownership. Collaborated closely with partners to ensure coherent annual planning based on a longer-term strategy, and jointly monitored and assessed implementation, providing advice on program reorientation where necessary. Provided technical advice and guidance on educational issues. Liaised with competent authorities to ensure the issuance and recognition of education-relevant documentation.
  • Implemented education programs in line with Inter-Agency Network for Education in Emergencies (INEE) standards, and the child protection systems approach. Facilitated inter-sectoral linkages with child protection, GBV, gender, community services, livelihoods/economic inclusion, environment, shelter, and health, among others.
  • Provided inputs for the development of global, regional, and international education policies.

Senior Community Based Protection Assistant

UNHCR
Arua, Uganda
11.2017 - 03.2023
  • Networked with partners and displaced communities to develop community-owned activities addressing educational, psycho-social, cultural, health, and livelihood concerns, including child protection, and SGBV response. This included planning and monitoring programs and budgets, building office capacity for community-based protection, and supporting communities in establishing representation and coordination structures.
  • I conducted participatory assessments to understand the capacities, needs, and resources of persons of concern, advised the protection team, and ensured accountability and quality assurance in UNHCR's response.
  • Conducted Women’s Participation and Leadership trainings aimed at addressing cultural norms and practices that limit women’s participation in decision-making.
  • Built refugee women on basic gender concepts, as well as leadership skills, lobbying, and conflict management. Assisted in the planning and monitoring of programs and budgets, with an AGD perspective.

Ag Executive Director

Inter Aid Uganda
Kampala, Uganda
02.2017 - 10.2017
  • Managed to extend the oversight and strategic direction of the organization called Inter-Aid. Supervised the urban refugee multi-sectoral program and all field programs in Kiryandongo Refugee Settlement, reporting and managing relationships with donors and partner agencies at the field level.
  • Monitored and evaluated the performance of the organization in accordance with donor requirements.
  • Liaised with government bodies and contractual partners to ensure a constant information flow.
  • Supervised the implementation of the Strategic Plan. Directed the development and implementation of the performance management system in the organization.
  • Monitor and evaluate the performance of the organization in accordance with donor requirements.
  • Supervised the implementation of the Strategic Plan.
  • Direct the development and implementation of the performance management system in the organization.
  • Act as an Accounting Officer for the organization, as per the organization’s policy and procedures.
  • Represent the Organization in negotiations with donors, suppliers, government departments, and other key contacts to secure the most effective contract terms for the Organization.
  • Receive all correspondences from Inter-Aid, and coordinate appropriate replies.
  • Coordinated and compiled quarterly, biannual, and annual reports.
  • Ensure good maintenance of Inter-Aid's resources.
  • Organize and facilitate management meetings regularly.
  • Coordinated the inter-aid public relations activities.
  • Approved all bank transactions as a principal signatory of the Inter-Aid Bank account and cheques.
  • Coordinated the implementation of the Inter-Aid programs.

Prgram Manager

Inter-Aid Uganda
Kiryandongo, Uganda
08.2015 - 12.2016
  • I was responsible for the overall leadership, management oversight, and strategic direction of the Inter-Aid Field Programme in the Kiryandongo Refugee Settlement. Also, I was responsible for the supervision of all field staff in the program, reporting, and managing relationships with donors, and partner agencies at the field level.
  • Coordinated, guided, and facilitated strategic operational planning, implementation, and reporting of integrated programs and projects in the program area.
  • Supported the rollout of organizational strategic directions, guidelines, tools, models, and frameworks across all programs.
  • Build, maintain, and effectively manage strategic partnerships and collaborations at the program level.
  • Participated in appropriate networks, forums, meetings, and conferences to build networks and share experiences that influence policies.
  • I was in charge of mobilizing, coordinating, and supporting the building and strengthening of networks, coalitions, and relationships with stakeholders at the program level, both locally and nationally, and linking with international levels where applicable.
  • Facilitated effective monitoring, evaluation, documentation, and reporting in line with agreed organizational targets and standards across all programs.
  • Managed program information and documentation processes, and ensured effective communication of the program results.
  • Provided monthly reports (progress against planned activities, expenses against the estimated budget, etc.). of program activities as per the agreed schedule.
  • Document the best practices implemented, success stories, and case studies of the community-level changes for dissemination and learning.
  • Prepared weekly, monthly, semi-annual, and annual reports of the program and activities (progress against the delivery of outputs, and the achievement of outcomes, etc.). as per the agreed schedule.
  • Ensured appropriate filing and availability of documentation required for internal and external communications, accountability, audits, evaluation, and reporting.
  • Provided technical support and guidance to the program officer in the translation of plans into operations and monitor their implementation.
  • Provided day-to-day coordination, supervision, and guidance for project implementation, ensuring that it is executed according to the approved work plans.
  • Supported and guide in the development of proposals and strategic work plans.
  • Mentored staff in translating organizational expectations into designs, plans, and M&E processes.
  • Monitored and supervised the timely and quality implementation of project annual plans and targets.
  • Developed proposals for resource mobilization as needed.
  • Participated in annual planning and budgeting for all program activities in line with planning and budgeting guidelines, and timelines.
  • Liaised with Finance and Accounts for the implementation of planned activities and timely expenditures within the planned time frame and approved budgets.
  • Monitored and managed the implementation of activities in a timely manner, in line with standards.
  • Conducted a training needs analysis for individuals and teams for capacity development and performance.
  • Capacity building of staff (training and coaching sessions for teams and individual staff in organizational programming, performance management, and implementation).
  • Provided support to the team and individual staff members for performance management.
  • Provided guidance to program staff in planning and monitoring detailed implementation plans.
  • Ensured adherence to internal policies, procedures, internal control systems, and processes in all transactions, including funder requirements.

Senior Community Services Officer

Inter-Aid Uganda
Kiryandongo, Uganda
01.2013 - 07.2015
  • Assisted all UNHCR units and partners in applying and promoting a community development approach in their work by:
  • Planned, supported, and monitored interventions to prevent and respond to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
  • Supported and monitored the Individual Cases Management System in the camps.
  • Promoted the empowerment of youth, women, and gender mainstreaming.
  • Assisted in the planning and monitoring of programs and budgets through an AGD perspective.
  • Prepared monthly reports on needs identified, activities conducted, and services rendered, as well as plan for the future.

Education Officer

Inter-Aid Uganda
Kampala, Uganda
01.2004 - 12.2012
  • I was in charge of planning for the Urban Refugee Education, coordination, and monitoring of all education activities (mapping of UPE/USE schools). I undertook the following tasks
  • Organized stakeholders’ meetings with education service providers (Kampala City Capital Authority (KCCA) Education Departments, Universal Primary Education (UPE) schools, parents, teachers, PTA, SMCs).
  • Mobilized and sensitized refugee communities to participate in the planning, implementation, and monitoring of the program activities, especially ensuring access to education for all refugee children in the urban area.
  • Team leader of twenty social workers, especially in child protection, sexual and gender-based violence, HIV/AIDS, psychosocial support, persons with specific needs, as well as the community outreach desk and language program for urban refugees.
  • Counseled refugees and asylum seekers at the Urban Refugee Program Office, Inter-Aid, Uganda.
  • Provided supervisory support to 12 of twelve social workers currently responding to the South Sudanese refugee influx at Kiryandongo refugee settlement.
  • Participated in the best Interest determination (BID) panel meeting to represent refugee children at risk (unaccompanied, separated, refugee, and asylum-seeker children).
  • Organized and participated in the community mobilization process.
  • Coordinate all language training lessons for urban refugees, daily intake management, and interpretation in Swahili, English, and Arabic languages.

Education

Master of Arts - Economic Policy And Planning

Makerere University
Kampala - Uganda
08-2010

Bachelor of Arts - Education

Islamic University in Uganda
Mbale, Uganda
05-2004

Skills

  • Education management
  • Policy development
  • Monitoring evaluation
  • Resource mobilization
  • Child protection
  • Negotiating
  • Counseling
  • Teamwork
  • Good communication skills
  • Good interpersonal skills
  • Fundraising tactics
  • Program analysis
  • Collaborative learning
  • Decision-making
  • Budget management
  • Networking skills
  • Advocacy strategies
  • Data analysis
  • Stakeholder collaboration
  • Community engagement

Languages

Lugbara
First Language
English
Proficient (C2)
C2
Arabic
Intermediate (B1)
B1
Swahili
Advanced (C1)
C1

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Assistant Education Officer

UNHCR
03.2023 - Current

Senior Community Based Protection Assistant

UNHCR
11.2017 - 03.2023

Ag Executive Director

Inter Aid Uganda
02.2017 - 10.2017

Prgram Manager

Inter-Aid Uganda
08.2015 - 12.2016

Senior Community Services Officer

Inter-Aid Uganda
01.2013 - 07.2015

Education Officer

Inter-Aid Uganda
01.2004 - 12.2012

Master of Arts - Economic Policy And Planning

Makerere University

Bachelor of Arts - Education

Islamic University in Uganda

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Kalsum Ijoru