Recruitment Of a Monitoring & Evaluation Officer

“ASSOCIATION OF AFRICAN UNIVERSITIES TERMS OF REFERENCE (ToRS) RECRUITMENT OF A MONITORING AND EVALUATION OFFICER TO SUPPORT THE MASTERCARD FOUNDATION’S AFRICA CLIMATE COLLABORATIVE INITIATIVE 1. Project Background 1.1 Context The Climate Collaborative, one of the Mastercard Foundation’s flagship collaboratives, brings together leading African and global universities to drive systems change in climate resilience, green skills, entrepreneurship, and knowledge generation. As the backbone organisation, the Association of African Universities (AAU) provides coordination, capacity strengthening, technical support, and learning functions across the Collaborative’s institutions. To deliver on its strategic MEL responsibilities, AAU seeks to recruit a Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Officer who will play a pivotal role in implementing the Collaborative’s MEL framework, supporting partners, and ensuring evidence-based decision-making. The MEL Officer will report to the Senior MEL Manager . 1.2 Project Description The Climate Collaborative is a multi-country initiative that brings together leading African and global universities to co-develop Africa-led solutions that strengthen climate resilience, expand green skills, and create dignified work opportunities for young people across the continent. Anchored by the Association of African Universities (AAU) as the backbone organization, the Collaborative is implemented in partnership with the University of Ghana , the University of Cape Town , Makerere University , and the University of Cambridge . It is structured around four interconnected workstreams: Workforce Development, Entrepreneurship, Research and Innovation, and Networks, Policy, and Learning . Through these, the initiative supports institutions to build capacity, generate new knowledge, and translate evidence into systems-level change within higher education and climate action ecosystems. The Collaborative operates through a clear governance architecture that enables shared decision-making, strong coordination, and inclusive participation. At the highest level, a Stewardship Team comprising senior leaders from partner universities, the AAU Secretariat, and the Mastercard Foundation provides strategic oversight, approves annual workplans and budgets, and reviews progress and risks. Supporting this is the AAU Backbone Secretariat, which manages day-to-day implementation, coordination, grants administration, safeguarding, communications, and Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL). The Backbone Secretariat works closely with dedicated Working Groups formed around the four thematic workstreams, which co-design and deliver technical activities across institutions. These groups include representatives from partner universities and technical experts and are responsible for ensuring the quality, relevance, and integration of all workstream outputs. To advance cross-cutting priorities, the Collaborative also convenes several transversal groups, including a MEL Community of Practice, an Inclusion and Safeguarding Working Group, and a Communications and Visibility cluster. These groups harmonize standards across institutions, coordinate joint learning and problem solving, and support high-quality delivery. A Youth Advisory Council provides structured opportunities for young people, particularly young women, persons with disabilities, and displaced youth, to influence program design, advise on implementation challenges, and help shape learning priorities. A Safeguarding and Ethics Committee ensures that all program activities meet the highest standards of safety, accountability, and ethical practice, with a focus on survivor centered response and data privacy. Across its workstreams, the Collaborative implements a wide range of activities. Workforce development efforts focus on green skills curriculum design, faculty capacity building, and work-integrated learning opportunities with industry and government partners. Entrepreneurship efforts cultivate pipelines of climate-focused ventures, offering incubation, acceleration, market access, and investment readiness support. Research and innovation activities strengthen collaborative research networks, promote open data and shared infrastructures, and facilitate the translation of research into policy and practice. The networks and policy pillar fosters continental convenings, produces evidence-based policy briefs, support cross-border academic mobility, and enhances Africa’s climate leadership. Throughout the initiative, the AAU’s backbone role emphasizes strategic coordination, inclusive governance, partner support, and facilitation of cross-institutional learning. Central to this mandate is a robust MEL function that tracks progress against a shared Theory of Change, ensures consistency in data and reporting across institutions, and drives continuous learning and adaptive management. MEL findings inform decision-making at all levels—from the Stewardship Team to pillar groups—and contribute to continental conversations on climate resilience, higher education transformation, and youth employment. The project places young people under the age of 35 at its core and is intentionally designed to include young women, persons with disabilities, and displaced youth. Partners adopt gender sensitive policies, universal design principles, and flexible learning approaches to ensure equitable participation. Financial aid, psychosocial support, and tailored outreach efforts further reduce barriers faced by vulnerable groups. Safeguarding standards are embedded throughout the program, with trained focal points, confidential reporting pathways, and clear protocols guiding safe and inclusive implementation. Ultimately, the Climate Collaborative aims to strengthen cross-border research and innovation, accelerate youth transitions into green jobs and entrepreneurship, expand policy influence and academic mobility, and embed a data-driven learning culture across African higher education. By aligning institutions, stakeholders, and youth voices around a shared vision, the initiative seeks to catalyze long‑term, sustainable transformation in Africa’s climate and education systems. As part of the implementation of this project, the Association of African Universities (AAU) invites applications for the following position, to be based in Accra, Ghana: Title: Monitoring and Evaluation Officer 2. Roles and Responsibilities Under the supervision of the Senior MEL Manager, the MEL Officer will support the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems across the Climate Collaborative. The role will focus on data management, partner support, analysis, reporting, and learning facilitation, ensuring alignment with the Collaborative’s Theory of Change, results framework, and operational priorities. The MEL Officer operates under the strategic direction and quality assurance oversight of the Senior MEL Manager, who retains accountability for MEL strategy, evaluation design approval, donor-facing synthesis, and adaptive management decisions. The Officer will work closely with partner universities, technical teams, and thematic workstreams to ensure high-quality data, strengthen MEL capacity, and support learning processes that drive adaptive management. By the end of the first year, the MEL Officer will have established reliable partner reporting routines, contributed to evidence-informed adaptations, and strengthened MEL capacity across institutions 2.1 Activities Key responsibilities will include the following, in addition to any other tasks that may be assigned by the Senior MEL Manager. Monitoring and Data Management Support the operationalization of the Collaborative’s MEL framework, indicators, and data collection tools. Coordinate routine data collection from partner universities and thematic workstreams. Conduct data verification, quality assurance checks, and follow-ups with partners to address gaps. Manage MEL databases and dashboards to ensure timely and accurate data entry and updates. Maintain a documentation system for tracking commitments, milestones, and critical shifts across partners. Evaluation and Evidence Generation Support baseline, midline, and endline assessments for specific components of the Collaborative. Assist in designing evaluation tools, surveys, digital forms, and qualitative data collection instruments. Contribute to synthesizing findings, lessons, and insights to inform decision-making and adaptive programming. Learning and Knowledge Sharing Support the development of learning agendas, learning questions, and evidence products. Facilitate partner learning sessions, reflection meetings, and peer exchange activities. Document success stories, case studies, and emerging lessons from partner institutions. Ensure learnings from evaluations, convenings, and partner engagements are disseminated across the Collaborative. Partner Support and Capacity Strengthening Provide ongoing MEL technical assistance to partner institutions based on identified capacity gaps. Support training sessions on MEL concepts, data systems, reporting expectations, and quality management. Work with institutions to strengthen MEL alignment with the Collaborative’s Theory of Change. Reporting and Compliance Support the preparation of quarterly, bi-annual, and annual MEL reports for AAU, partners, and the Foundation. Ensure accurate and timely submission of data and progress updates from partners. Contribute to the preparation of presentations, dashboards, briefs, and documentation for governance meetings and convenings. 2.2 Reports and Deliverables The MEL Officer will be responsible for producing high-quality monitoring, evaluation, and learning outputs that support evidence-based decision-making across the Climate Collaborative. Key deliverables include: Monthly MEL Updates summarizing data submissions, partner follow-ups, risks, and emerging insights. Quarterly MEL Reports presenting consolidated progress against indicators, milestones, and learning questions, with recommendations for adaptive management. Bi-Annual and Annual Results Reports capturing outcomes across the four pillars, contributions to the Theory of Change, and overall program performance. MEL Databases and Dashboards with up to date, verified data from partner institutions. Data Quality Assurance Outputs, including verification checklists, feedback to partners, and corrective action notes. Inputs to Baseline, Midline, and Endline Assessments, including data collection, analysis, and summary contributions. Learning Products, such as briefs, case studies, and reflection notes from convenings and partner learning sessions. Documentation of Technical Support provided to partners, including training summaries, capacity building logs, and follow-up actions. MEL Inputs for Governance Meetings, including dashboards, presentations, and progress summaries for the Stewardship Team and working groups. Risk and Adaptation Notes identifying MEL-related risks and recommended mitigation strategies. Ad hoc Contributions to donor reports, proposal development, and thematic analyses as requested by the Senior MEL Manager. 3. Criteria for evaluating profiles & CVs The ideal candidate must meet the following criteria: 3.1 Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Monitoring & Evaluation, Statistics, Economics, Development Studies, Social Sciences, Environmental Studies, or related field. A postgraduate diploma or master’s degree in MEL, Data Science, or Project Management is an added advantage. 3.2 Skills and Competencies Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Excellent data management and visualization abilities. Strong facilitation, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to synthesize complex information into accessible insights. Highly organized with attention to detail and a commitment to quality. Ability to work in multicultural and multi-institutional environments. Demonstrated commitment to youth-centered, inclusive, and gender-sensitive approaches. 3.3 Professional Experience Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in MEL roles, preferably within higher education, climate programs, development projects, or multi-country initiatives. Demonstrated experience with MEL system design, data management, and reporting. Experience working with digital MEL tools and platforms (e.g., PowerBI, Excel, Tableau). Prior experience supporting capacity building or partner engagements is highly desirable. Candidates’ CVs will be scored using the assessment criteria and points system detailed in the scoring matrix below: This grid will help to assess and compare candidates based on the qualifications, skills and requirements described. Category CV Evaluation Criteria Score Technical MEL Skills 30 MEL framework & indicator design Contributes ToC revision based on learning; aligns to multipartner programs 6 Data Systems & Quality Assurance Helps design/maintain MEL databases & dashboards; runs DQRs; sets SOPs 6 Quantitative & Qualitative Methods Proficient in survey design, sampling, basic stats; solid qualitative tools & analysis 5 MEL for learning & adaptation Turns data into insights; facilitates pause and reflect; informs pivots 5 Digital Tools Comfortable with Kobo/ODK, Excel/Sheets, Power BI/Tableau, DHIS2 (or similar) 5 Reporting & Visualization Clear, compelling dashboards and concise, decision-ready briefs 3 Core Competencies 20 Analytical thinking & problem solving Breaks complex issues into actionable steps; prioritizes rigor and relevance 5 Stakeholder engagement & teamwork Collaborates across institutions; manages expectations; builds trust 5 Planning & organization Meets deadlines; manages multiple streams; documents decisions & follow-ups 5 Integrity & data ethics Protects data privacy; flags risks; aligns with safeguarding & ethical standards 5 Professional Experience 25 Years & relevance of MEL experience 3–5 years in MEL; multi-country or higher education/climate programs 8 Sectoral fit (climate/TVET/HE/youth) Demonstrated outcomes in at least one relevant sector 6 Partner capacity strengthening Designed/delivered MEL trainings; TA with measurable improvements 6 Donor reporting & compliance Experience with structured donor reports; timely, accurate submissions 5 Inclusion & Safeguarding Orientation 10 Gender & disability inclusion in MEL Integrates sex/age/disability disaggregation; inclusive tool design; ethics 5 Safeguarding awareness & practice Familiar with policies, risk identification, referral pathways, and confidentiality 5 Communication 5 Written & verbal clarity (5) Concise, structured, plain language; adjusts to technical & non‑technical audiences 5 Practical Task 10 Dataset + brief scenario (AAU context): Clean/verify, create 2–3 visuals, interpret 3 key insights, Data quality & accuracy 5 Write a one‑page learning brief with two recommendations for adaptation. Insightfulness & utility for decisions 5 TOTAL SCORE 100 4. Conditions of Service 4.1 Duration, duty post and start date The initial term of the assignment is two years (with a six-month probationary period) from the date of commencement of service following the signing of the contract. It is renewable for the duration of the project, depending on the candidate’s performance, the needs of the Mastercard Foundation and the availability of resources. The MEL Officer will be based at the AAU Headquarters in Accra, Ghana. 4.2 Working hours and public holidays Working hours and public holidays are those in force in the Republic of Ghana. 4.3 Travel Numerous trips are planned within the sub-region, but mainly between the project countries, Uganda, South Africa, Ghana, and the United Kingdom. 4.4 Application package and submission instructions The AAU is committed to the principle of equal opportunity. In line with its commitment to reflect the diversity of the African academic world, applications from women are strongly encouraged. The application package shall include the following: A cover letter including a statement of interest and suitability for the position, and an indication of the date on which the candidate is available to take up the position A detailed curriculum vitae describing the candidate’s professional experience and qualifications for the position Supporting documentation for the qualifications listed in the curriculum vitae (copies of diplomas/certificates) At least two (2) letters of recommendation, one of which must be from a country other than the candidate’s country of origin Submission instructions are as follows: Candidates’ application letters and supporting documents must be submitted online using this link: https://www.research.net/r/MEL26CC no later than 5 th June 2026 Each of the three letters of reference must be sent directly by the referee, via this link: https://www.research.net/r/RefCCMEL26 Applications that do not meet the above submission requirements may not be considered. 4.5 Selection Method The MEL Officer will be selected using the qualifications-based selection method and following the AAU procurement guidelines for the recruitment of project staff. Candidates’ CVs will be scored according to the evaluation criteria and scoring system defined in the matrix in Section 3 above. A shortlist of six (6) candidates will be drawn up to continue the selection process. In the event of a tie, the candidate with the highest score on the experience criteria (see matrix above) will be selected. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage of the process. In the second stage, the six (6) selected candidates will participate in a videoconference interview. The contract will be awarded to the candidate ranked first at the end of this process. The interview panel will be constituted by the AAU and will include representatives from the Mastercard Foundation and the AAU. The AAU reserves the right not to proceed with this selection notice.

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