Project Assistant – UNESCO (Culture Sector).
Location: Pretoria, South Africa.
Contract Type: Non-Staff (Level 1).
Duration: 1 Year.
Application Deadline: 4 November 2025.
Eligibility: Open only to South African nationals.
About the Project
UNESCO’s Regional Office for Southern Africa is implementing the “Africa-Europe Partnerships for Culture” project, funded by the European Union. The initiative aims to promote culture and heritage-based sustainable tourism and strengthen cultural production capacities in Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. The project seeks to foster regional integration, sustainable development, and deeper cultural understanding across the region.
Role Overview
The Project Assistant will provide administrative and logistical support to ensure the smooth implementation of the project. The position reports to the Head of the Culture Unit and works closely with the Project Coordinator and other team members.
Key Responsibilities
Support the Project Coordinator and M&E Officer in implementing activities across six countries.
Assist in planning, organizing, and coordinating meetings, workshops, and conferences, including logistics and travel arrangements.
Draft Terms of Reference (TORs) for service providers.
Prepare and track payment requests and ensure timely disbursements.
Develop and maintain a contract tracking system to monitor deliverables and deadlines.
Liaise with implementation partners to ensure submission of work plans, budgets, and procurement documents.
Record and file meeting minutes and maintain organized project documentation.
Support communication and visibility efforts, including developing publications and promotional materials.
Maintain both electronic and paper records in line with UNESCO’s data management policy.
Perform other administrative or coordination duties as required.
Required Qualifications
Education:
Completed secondary, technical, or vocational education.
Experience:
Minimum 2 years of professional experience in project management, office administration, development, or a related field.
Skills and Competencies:
Strong analytical and organizational abilities.
Excellent attention to detail and ability to work under pressure.
Good interpersonal and communication skills within a multicultural environment.
Proficiency in IT and office software tools.
Language:
Excellent English (written and spoken).
Desirable Qualifications
Previous experience working on EU-funded projects.
Experience within the United Nations system.
Core Competencies
Accountability
Communication
Innovation
Teamwork
Results Focus
Planning and Organizing
Professionalism
Continuous Learning
Additional Information
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Selection may include tests and interviews conducted via video conference.
UNESCO promotes diversity, inclusion, and gender equality and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and underrepresented groups.
No fees are charged during the recruitment process.
UNESCO is a non-smoking organization.