JOB DETAILS:
As German development cooperation, we are committed to an international digital politics that enables a fair balance of interests based on European standards and universal human rights. The Advisor for Artificial Intelligence (AI) in East Africa will play a critical role in fostering regional collaboration, supporting IUCEA and its network of member universities, and promoting the integration of AI into education, research, and policy-making. This position is part of a larger effort to advance digital transformation and innovation within the East African Community (EAC), focusing on equitable, sustainable, and inclusive development.
GIZ is recruiting a Regional AI Policy Advisor to support the implementation of activities in the programme

We encourage women, people with disabilities and minority groups to apply for this position. GIZ is committed to equal opportunities and diversity of perspective at the working place.

A. Key Responsibilities
The Regional AI Policy Advisor will be responsible for:
• Providing strategic and technical advisory support to IUCEA and member universities across the EAC on AI-related initiatives, including curriculum development, capacity building, and policy formulation.

• Facilitating partnerships between universities, private sector organizations, and public institutions to strengthen AI research, education, and innovation in the EAC and beyond.
• Promoting regional collaboration on AI by supporting the development of harmonized standards and frameworks across EAC member states, including guidance on policy development processes in the EAC.

• Enhancing gender equality and inclusion in AI-related fields through targeted interventions and initiatives.

The Regional AI Policy Advisor performs the following tasks:

B. Specific Tasks
Support and Advisory for IUCEA and Member Universities
• Assist IUCEA in the development of regional AI education and research frameworks, including structure, content, vision, strategy and alignment with other regional and international standards.

• Provide guidance on the integration of AI into curricula and support the creation of regional standards for AI education, including input from other regional and international best practices.
• Strengthen capacity at member universities in the EAC through workshops, training sessions, and mentorship programs for faculty and researchers, including preparation, facilitation and content development.

• Encourage gender-balanced participation in AI initiatives by promoting policies and programs that increase female representation in AI education and careers.
Facilitating Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and Research Collaborations
• Identify and engage private sector partners in East Africa to support AI research and education through resource sharing (e.g., data sets, computational infrastructure).
• Foster partnerships between academia, industry, and public institutions to drive innovation in AI and its applications across the East African region

• Establish mechanisms for member universities to collaborate with businesses and startups in AI-related fields in East Africa, ensuring alignment with market needs.
Regional and Policy Engagement
• Support IUCEA in coordinating with EAC member states on the development of harmonized AI policies and strategies, including guidance on EAC policy development processes.
• Organize and facilitate policy dialogues with stakeholders from academia, government, and the private sector at a regional level.
• Promote the implementation of ethical and sustainable AI practices by aligning initiatives with international standards (e.g., UNESCO’s ethical AI principles).
Project Management and Monitoring
• Oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of AI-related activities in collaboration with IUCEA and regional stakeholders.
• Manage budgets and resources effectively to achieve project goals.
• Ensure continuous monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of outcomes, incorporating lessons learned into future activities.
Networking and Capacity Building
• Build and maintain networks with regional universities, research institutions, and industry partners to support AI innovation and education.
• Coordinate with other national and regional GIZ programs and international organizations to align efforts and maximize impact.
• Represent GIZ and IUCEA at regional and international events on AI and digital transformation.
Other duties/additional tasks:
• Advice the GIZ Country Director for the development of portfolio opportunities in AI and digital transformation, focusing on BMZ, EU funding and other donors in the D4D field.
• Provides strategic advisory on D4D to the GIZ Uganda management team and other GIZ Uganda projects to facilitate interlinkages between GIZ@Heart and digital development implementation/AI.
• Performs other duties and tasks at the request of management.

C. Required qualifications, competences and experience.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Digital Transformation, International Relations, Marketing, Trade or a related field. Masters degree in related field is an added advantage.

Professional experience
• 5 years of professional experience in digital transformation and emerging technologies.
• 5 years of professional experience in development cooperation on digital skills and digital policy.
• Demonstrated experience in working with universities and research institutions to promote innovation and capacity building.
• Proven track record in managing partnerships with private sector organizations and government entities
• Familiarity with EAC education systems, regional dynamics, and digital transformation efforts.
• Experience and knowledge of multi-stakeholder approaches and how to implement them in practice
• Strong knowledge of AI technologies and their applications in education and research.
• Excellent project management, organizational, and stakeholder engagement skills.

Other knowledge/skills
• Strong computer skills (MS Office, MS Teams, etc.)
• Strong ability to moderate high-level workshops and meetings.
• Workshop facilitation skills is and added advantage.
• Culturally sensitive leadership skills with a proven track record of managing multi-cultural teams.
• Outstanding communication skills, with the ability to navigate complex, multicultural environments
• Excellent knowledge of written and spoken English. Fluency in Swahili, French and/or German is an added advantage.

• Applications and CVs should be in one document and a maximum of 5 pages only and sent electronically, quoting the position and reference number.
• Please include name and contact of three references. One official reference from your current workplace is a MUST.
Please note: This is a regional position. Only the shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Disclaimer: GIZ DOES NOT charge any kind of FEE(s) at whichever stage of the recruitment process.