Result of Service

The Research Assistant (RA) will support the research project to enhance youth participation in the governance of smart cities with one of the research pilots in Suva, Fiji. The RA, based in Suva, Fiji will provide both remote and in-person support in regards to data collection, analysis, dissemination of findings, meeting support, coordination with the local youth advisory groups, and any other tasks as required.

Work Location

Suva, Fiji

Expected duration

14 days

Duties and Responsibilities

• Data Collection and analysis o Conduct surveys and facilitate discussions with youth and other stakeholders in Suva, Fiji. o Assist in gathering quantitative and qualitative data on smart city initiatives, youth participation, and urban governance. o Assist in write-up of relevant findings and reflections from fieldwork. • Translation of presentation materials and other relevant documents as necessary into local language(s) • Community Engagement and Communication o Support the facilitation of validation workshops with young people. o Coordination with the local Youth Advisory Groups and ensuring regular contact. o Ensure effective communication between the research team and local partners and support the research team’s engagement with local stakeholders as necessary. • Documentation and Reporting: o Maintain detailed records of research activities, data collection, and analysis. o Contribute to the preparation of a comprehensive research report and illustrated version as necessary to provide localized knowledge. • Validation Workshop Organisation: o Support the organisation of validation workshops for youth in Suva, Fiji. o Support with facilitation of sessions during the fieldwork and provide logistical support to ensure smooth rollout of activities. • Any other tasks as required.

Qualifications/special skills

Advanced degree in urban studies, sociology, public policy, geography, or related fields. Current graduate student or researcher in urban studies, sociology, public policy, geography, or related fields can be accepted in lieu of advanced degree. Two years of previous experience conducting qualitative and quantitative research, particularly in urban studies, human rights or related fields is required. Communication skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, organization, and ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders is required. Organizational skills: Strong organizational and time management skills, and ability to work independently and as part of a team is required. Commitment to social justice: Demonstrated commitment to equity, inclusion, and social justice principles is required. Technical skills: Proficiency in data analysis software, as well as familiarity with digital governance tools and participatory research is desired. Familiarity with the local context and challenges related to urban development and governance in Fiji, experience working with youth or community organizations, and knowledge of smart city technologies, human rights and digital governance frameworks are desirable.

Languages

Fluency in English is required. Fluency in Fijian and/or Fijian Hindi is desired.

Additional Information

Not available.

No Fee

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.