Join Our Team: Graduate Associate – Unlocking Data Initiatives (Zizi Afrique Foundation)
Location: Nairobi, Kenya | Duration: 5 months | Start Date: 21st July 2025
Application Deadline: 7th July 2025, 17:00 EAT
About Zizi Afrique and the Unlocking Data Initiatives
Zizi Afrique Foundation (ZAF) is a not-for-profit organization registered in Kenya, committed to realizing a world where all children and youth learn and thrive.
The Unlocking Data Initiatives is a collaborative project implemented by Zizi Afrique Foundation in partnership with the University of Malawi, Effective Basic Services (eBASE), Education Sub-Saharan Africa (ESSA), and EdTech Hub. The initiative spans Kenya, Malawi, and Cameroon, with a core mission of promoting the use of educational data and evidence to improve foundational learning. It aims to bridge the gap between data analysis and policy implementation by empowering local researchers and institutions to harness data sustainably and effectively.
Now Hiring: Graduate Associate
We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Graduate Associate to support the Unlocking Data Initiatives. This role offers an exciting opportunity for PhD students to engage in hands-on research, data analysis, and policy engagement that drives change in foundational learning outcomes across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Job Description
Position Title: Graduate Associate
Reporting to: Programme Manager – Unlocking Data Initiatives
Contract Duration: 5 months (starting 21st July 2025)
Location: Nairobi, Kenya (with possible travel within Kenya)
Key Responsibilities
1. Data Mapping and Analysis
- Employ both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.
- Conduct advanced statistical analyses related to foundational learning data.
- Develop interactive data visualization tools and dashboards for effective communication of findings.
2. Literature Review and Evidence Synthesis
- Conduct comprehensive literature reviews on relevant topics aligned with the initiative.
- Synthesize information and evidence from various academic and policy sources.
- Produce detailed reports summarizing literature review findings for stakeholder engagement.
3. Research and Evaluation Support
- Assist in the development of data collection tools and research protocols.
- Support fieldwork activities including Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs).
- Contribute to the design and implementation of broader research studies and evaluations.
4. Documentation and Reporting
- Draft and edit technical and research reports based on collected data.
- Document project activities and research processes for institutional learning and reporting.
Key Competencies
- Enrolled as a PhD student, having completed coursework in Statistics, Economics, Education, or a related Social Science discipline.
- Proficiency in quantitative and qualitative data analysis techniques.
- Demonstrated experience with statistical software such as SPSS, R, STATA, or Nvivo.
- Ability to conduct structured literature reviews and synthesize complex academic content.
- Skilled in data visualization and dashboard development.
- Competent in Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Strong organizational skills with an ability to manage multiple tasks.
- Proven experience in facilitating group learning processes and translating evidence into practical insights.
Why Join Us?
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful education reform across Africa while developing your skills in research, data analysis, and evidence-based policy engagement. At Zizi Afrique Foundation, we value intellectual curiosity, innovation, and collaboration. You will work in a dynamic, mission-driven team focused on changing how education data is used to influence learning outcomes.
How to Apply
If you meet the criteria above and are excited about using your research expertise to improve education systems, we invite you to apply.
Please submit the following documents:
- A cover letter outlining your motivation and suitability for the role
- A current CV (Curriculum Vitae)
- Two references (academic or professional)
Send your application to: jobs@ziziafrique.org
Subject line: Unlocking Data Initiatives Graduate Student Application
Deadline: 7th July 2025, 17:00 EAT