Openings – Pratham

Pratham was founded in 1995, to provide pre-school education to children in Mumbai slums. Over the last 27 years, Pratham has grown to be one of the largest non-profit organizations working to provide quality education to children and youth in over 20 states and union territories across the country, through a range of interventions.
Pratham is a widely recognized organization, having received notable awards such as the Yidan Prize, Lui Che Woo Prize, WISE Prize for Innovation, Skoll Award for Social Entrepreneurship, the Henry R Kravis Prize in Leadership, and the CNN-IBN Indian of the Year for Public Service. For more details, refer to www.pratham.org.

About the ENABLE Program
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 while highlighting India’s commitment to achieving SDG Goal 4 of the 2030 Agenda seeks to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all”. It has accorded highest priority to achieving Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) by all students by Grade 3. The Policy especially recognizes the importance of creating enabling mechanisms for Children with disabilities who were about 5 million in 2019. Alarmingly, a large proportion of these children do not attend educational institutions, and 45% even struggle to attain foundational literacy. Hence many do not reach secondary education and beyond. ENABLE (Equity in Accessing Numeracy and Basic Literacy Education), is a multi-pronged intervention designed to strengthen the FLN for 3-9-year-old children with disabilities. The 3-key objective of this program is to:

1. Strengthen Government’s mainstream service delivery mechanism to ensure foundational learning outcomes for learners with disabilities (LwD)
2. Identify, address and overcome attitudinal barriers and stereotypes towards learners with disabilities in families and communities
3. Facilitate partnership between relevant government departments, civil society, private sector and communities in support for learners with disabilities

1. SPECIALIST (INCLUSIVE EDUCATION CONTENT AND PEDAGOGY), ENABLE PROGRAM

Position Summary:
The Specialist (Inclusive Education Content and Pedagogy) provides strategic leadership and guidance to the project team on inclusive practices. They conduct research, develop inclusive pedagogical approaches, and integrate innovations. This role also offers training and capacity building, requiring expertise in curriculum design, adaptations, research, and project management.

Key responsibilities:

• means day to day high frequency tasks which may usually be process oriented
• means weekly tasks/milestones that may require a bit of cognitive load
• means the task have to be accomplished once a month
• means the task needs attention once per quarter that may require creativity, cognition etc.

1) Leadership and Guidance

• Provide strategic leadership and guidance to the project team on matters of inclusive education content and pedagogy. (+++)
• Provide expertise on local, state, and central government acts, laws, and policies related to inclusive education, and ensure compliance. (+++)
• Guide and mentor project team on inclusive education. (+++)
• Regularly observe classroom activities and provide constructive feedback to teachers on inclusive practices, offering guidance for improvement. (++)

2) Knowledge Development and Implementation

• Conduct regular research, including action research, about best practices in inclusive education. (++++)
• Create pedagogical approaches that allow for differentiated instruction, ensuring individualised support for students in mixed-ability classrooms. (++++)
• Develop packages on inclusive education using the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to create flexible, responsive learning environments for all learners, including those with disabilities. (++++)
• Support the integration of gender, WaSH, assistive technology, etc, into project activities. (+++)
• Promote innovation within project activities. (+++)

3) Training and Capacity Building

• Collaborate with parents and caregivers to understand and address the specific needs of children with disabilities. (++)
• Provide ongoing training and support to school staff in implementing inclusive practices. (++)
• Provide training sessions and workshops to equip teachers with the knowledge and skills needed for effective implementation of inclusive teaching practices. (++)
• Guide teachers in integrating appropriate assistive technologies to support children with disabilities in their learning journey. (++)

Required Skills and Knowledge :

Skills
The ability to collaboratively evaluate and design inclusive curriculum for children.

• The ability to guide and mentor professionals and practitioners.
• Capacity to conduct research and analyses data to develop packages for inclusive education.
• Proficiency in project management to ensure the successful execution of the program.

Knowledge

• Knowledge of curriculum design principles, adaptations and the ability to work with educators, curriculum developers, and special education experts to create inclusive curricula.
• Knowledge about use of technical devices for LwD and skills in computers
• A deep understanding of inclusive education. An understanding of educational theories and philosophies is crucial.
• Knowledge about service delivery mechanism for inclusive education
• Expertise in research methodologies.
• Knowledge of project management principles and practices.

Required Qualification & Abilities :

• Preferably Master’s or Doctorate in relevant fields (Education, Special Education, Inclusive Education) with a minimum 8+ years experience in a relevant profile.
• Advocacy for inclusive practices
• Publications in inclusive education
• Willingness to promote innovation and adapt to change.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently, with a strong commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
• Willingness to travel.

Working Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra

Application Process
Please send the following to recruitment@pratham.org. We will reach out to you to set up the application process. To participate in the process, kindly submit the form available at https://forms.gle/Rnzh52x1cWCeTXxm7.

Your resume should contain –

• Contact information
• Academic background: Universities attended and degrees acquired with academic record (Marks or GPA, if applicable)
• Past work experience, highlighting relevant skills
• Relevant Coursework: List Courses in Development, Management, and Education
• Experiences in development, teaching and/or education (if applicable)
• Interest areas/hobbies
• Languages spoken

Note: Pratham is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workforce and consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age or disability. We encourage individuals from underrepresented groups, especially persons with disabilities to apply.

2. SPECIALIST (PUBLIC POLICY), ENABLE PROGRAM

Position Summary:
Special Educator assesses the learner, and plans and tailors teaching plans according to the learners` abilities by adapting materials, monitor progress, and manage behavioural issues. They will promote inclusivity through peer engagement, and collaborate with professionals, parents and project teams to develop and validate inclusive education packages.

Key responsibilities:

• means day to day high frequency tasks which may usually be process oriented
• means weekly tasks/milestones that may require a bit of cognitive load
• means the task have to be accomplished once a month
• means the task needs attention once per quarter that may require creativity, cognition etc.

Leadership and Guidance

• Provide strategic leadership and guidance to the project team on education, health, disability, and early childhood systems and strengthening. (+++)
• Provide expertise on local, state, and central government acts, laws, and policies related to inclusive education, and ensure compliance. (+++)
• Guide and mentor project teams and program activities to culminate into systems strengthening efforts. (+++)
• Facilitate collaboration among various stakeholders, including government bodies, NGOs, community organizations, and disability advocacy groups, to coordinate efforts towards improving education systems for children with disabilities.
• Establish partnerships with relevant organizations and institutions to leverage resources, expertise, and collective efforts in strengthening education systems.

Knowledge Development and Implementation

• Conduct thorough assessments of the existing education systems, policies, and practices to identify gaps, challenges, and opportunities for strengthening the inclusion of children with disabilities. (++++)
• Serve as an advocate for policy changes and reforms that promote equal access, participation, and quality education for all children, with a particular focus on those with disabilities. (++++)
• Develop advocacy / communication packages on strengthening existing systems on education, health, and early childhood development to ensure inclusion of children with disabilities and other children belonging to socio-economically disadvantaged groups. (++++)
• Support the integration of gender, WaSH, assistive technology, etc, into project activities. (+++)
• Promote innovation within project activities. (+++)
  Training and Capacity Building
• Organize capacity-building workshops and training sessions for educators, administrators, and other stakeholders to enhance their understanding of inclusive education principles and strategies.
• Collaborate with diverse stakeholders (teachers, administrators, government officials, and others) to understand and address the specific needs of children with disabilities. (++)
• Provide ongoing training and support to school staff in implementing inclusive practices. (++)

Skills

• The ability to collaborate with diverse government and non-government stakeholders
• The ability to guide and mentor professionals and practitioners.
• Capacity to conduct research to advocate for inclusive education
• Proficiency in project management to ensure the successful execution of the program.
• Basic Data Analysis and visualisation
• Proficient in academic writing (policy briefs, white papers)

Knowledge

• In-depth knowledge of education, health, and early childhood systems and other cross cutting sectors in India
• An understanding of educational theories and philosophies is crucial.
• Expertise in research methodologies.
• Knowledge of project management principles and practices.
• Basic statistical concepts and proficient knowledge on using a data analytical software
• Aware of various writing styles, white papers, research notes and public policy analysis framework

Required Qualifications :

• Preferably Master’s in relevant fields (Education, Policy, Social Sciences) with a minimum 8+ years experience in a relevant profile.
• Willingness to promote innovation and adapt to change.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently, with a strong commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
• Willingness to travel.

Working Location: New Delhi

3. SPECIAL EDUCATOR, ENABLE PROGRAM

Position Summary:
A Special Educator assesses the learner, and plans and tailors teaching plans according to the learners` abilities by adapting materials, monitor progress, and manage behavioural issues. They will promote inclusivity through peer engagement, and collaborate with professionals, parents and project teams to develop and validate inclusive education packages.

Key responsibilities:

• means day to day high frequency tasks which may usually be process oriented
• means weekly tasks/milestones that may require a bit of cognitive load
• means the task have to be accomplished once a month
• means the task needs attention once per quarter that may require creativity, cognition etc.

1)Learning and Teaching

• Assess students’ abilities formatively and craft teaching plans
• Adapt learning materials to students’ needs
• Keep track of and reflect on students’ progress
• Monitor children’s behavioural patterns and arrange appropriate interventions if needed
• Find Undertake engaging activities to teach skills (e.g. drawing and theatre drama)
• Manage classroom crises and resolve conflict
• Prepare students for transition to the next grade
• Discuss with parents about their children’s performance and concerns
• Promote an inclusive environment through peer engagement

2) Develop and Test Inclusive Education Packages

• Support the project team in developing packages for inclusive education
• Develop and validate inclusive education packages

3) Relationship Building and Training

• Work collaboratively with other professionals who work with children with disabilities
• Collaborate with the support staff (e.g. school counsellors and speech therapists) to create holistic intervention plans
• Coordinate with teachers and Anganwadis in classroom

4) Other Responsibilities

• Enrol children and complete necessary documentation.
• Develop and implement appropriate intervention strategies.
• Observe and document child progress, maintaining comprehensive case records.
• Keep accurate daily attendance records.
• Collaborate with Center Heads and Center Support Associates to ensure consistent attendance.
• Prepare monthly reports, case studies and success stories.

Required Skills and Knowledge:

Skills

• Ability to assess students` abilities, adapt learning material, and tailor teaching plans according to the learner
• Heightened Communication Skills and collaborative attitude
• Expertise and confidence to manage an inclusive classroom
• Ability to prepare digital reports for better documentation
• Ability to create and implement flexible and inclusive lesson plans and materials by applying the Universal
• Design for Learning in classrooms (additional)
• Out of box thinking for planning and executing creative activities

Knowledge

• Educational needs of varying disabilities
• Inclusive pedagogy and teaching methods.
• Collaborative and interdisciplinary teamwork
• Knowledge of principles and philosophy of inclusive education, along with national laws, policies, and acts for people with disabilities
• Knowledge to use MS Office tools (Word, Powerpoint, Excel)
• Familiarity with the principles of UDL, which involve designing instruction to accommodate a wide range of learner variability (additional)

Required Qualifications & Abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree in Special Education
• RCI registration
• Minimum 3 years of related experience.
• Willingness to promote innovation and adapt to change.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently, with a strong commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
• Willingness to travel.

Working Location : Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra

Application Process
Please send the following to recruitment@pratham.org. We will reach out to you to set up the application process. To participate in the process, kindly submit the form available at https://forms.gle/Rnzh52x1cWCeTXxm7.

Your resume should contain –

• Contact information
• Academic background: Universities attended and degrees acquired with academic record (Marks or GPA, if applicable)
• Past work experience, highlighting relevant skills
• Relevant Coursework: List Courses in Development, Management, and Education
• Experiences in development, teaching and/or education (if applicable)
• Interest areas/hobbies
• Languages spoken

Positions: 3

4. ASSOCIATE (EARLY YEARS), ENABLE PROGRAM

Position Summary:
Associate (Early Years and Gender) will work with internal teams, educators, parents, and other stakeholders for a cohesive, collaborative approach to inclusive education and gender-inclusive practices. The individual will apply knowledge to continually improve curriculum materials and teacher training programs. Associate (Early Years and Gender) is required to stay informed about the latest research, trends, and developments in early childhood education, gender-inclusive practices, and disabilities inclusion.

Key responsibilities :

Curriculum Development –

• Collaborate with educators and curriculum specialists to create, adapt, and customize early childhood education materials for children with disabilities.
• Ensure materials are inclusive, engaging, and aligned with educational standards.
• Incorporate differentiated instruction strategies into curriculum materials to address diverse abilities and learning styles.
• Ensure curriculum content is accessible and adaptable to meet specific needs of each child through innovative integration of assistive technologies.

Professional Development and Support –

• Plan, develop, and deliver training programs, workshops, and professional development for early childhood educators.
• Provide hands-on support to teachers in creating inclusive learning environments.

Research and Advocacy –

• Maintain records and documentation of curriculum development, training sessions, and teacher support efforts.
• Regularly assess the effectiveness of curriculum materials and teacher training programs. Make necessary adjustments and enhancements based on evaluation results.
• Advocate for the rights and needs of children with disabilities and the promotion of inclusive education and gender diversity.
• Participate in conferences, workshops, and public events to share knowledge, promote inclusive education, and support the organization’s and project`s mission.

Required Skills and Knowledge:

Skills:

• The ability to tailor educational curriculum to meet the diverse needs of students.
• Skill in modifying instructional materials.
• The capacity to design and implement teaching strategies that cater to the individual needs of students.
• Expertise in creating a classroom environment that welcomes and accommodates students of all abilities, backgrounds, and identities.
• The ability to provide support and guidance to educators to enhance their classroom management, teaching methods, and their understanding of diverse learning needs.
• Proficiency in reaching out to families, communities, and stakeholders to create awareness, build support, and engage them in educational initiatives.
• The ability to perform desk review with latest research methodologies to develop innovative materials for children.
• The ability to collect and analyze data to deliver meaningful results.
• Communication and public relations skills.
• Ability to summarize complex information into concise forms (visual/written/verbal)

Knowledge:

• Understanding of educational standards and learning objectives.
• Knowledge of diverse learning styles and individual student needs.
• Knowledge of instructional design and pedagogical methods.
• Knowledge of assessment strategies for measuring student progress.
• Familiarity with inclusive teaching strategies and classroom management techniques.
• Research design and methodologies relevant to educational research.
• Research methods and data collection techniques.

Required Qualifications :

• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Social Work, Social Sciences , and related fields. Master`s degree is preferred.
• Minimum 2 to 3 years of work experience, preferably in curriculum development, inclusive education, and differentiated instruction.
• Strong understanding of gender-inclusive practices in education.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently, with a strong commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
• Willingness to travel.

Working Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra.

5. ASSOCIATE (PUBLIC POLICY), ENABLE PROGRAM

Position Summary:
We are looking to hire an Associate (Public Policy) to work on systems strengthening and support the project team in promotion and integration of project activities into the mainstream educational, health, disability, and early childhood systems, policy and advocacy dialogues at district, state, and national levels. Additionally, the Associate will support knowledge development, stakeholder engagement, and capacity building.

Key responsibilities :

Support for Systems Strengthening Initiatives

• Support the implementation of local, state, and central government acts, laws, and policies related to inclusive education, through the project activities, while ensuring compliance.
• Conduct and facilitate field activities with various stakeholders, including government bodies, NGOs, community organizations, and disability advocacy groups, to understand the gaps in policies for improving education systems for children with disabilities.
• Establish partnerships with relevant organizations and institutions to leverage resources, expertise, and collective efforts in strengthening education systems.

Knowledge Development and Implementation

• Conduct thorough assessments of the existing education systems, policies, and practices to identify gaps, challenges, and opportunities for strengthening the inclusion of children with disabilities.
• Engage in advocacy efforts to promote policy changes and reforms that advance the cause of inclusive education, and work to raise awareness about the rights and needs of children with disabilities within the education system.
• Support the distribution of relevant resources, materials, and information that promote inclusive education practices among teachers, administrators, and policymakers.
• Collaborate with government bodies and stakeholders to ensure that education policies and regulations are inclusive and supportive of children with disabilities.

Training and Capacity Building

● Organize capacity-building workshops and training sessions for educators, administrators, and other stakeholders to enhance their understanding of inclusive education principles and strategies.
● Collaborate with diverse stakeholders (teachers, administrators, government officials, and others) to understand and address the specific needs of children with disabilities.
● Provide ongoing training and support to school staff in implementing inclusive practices.

Required Skills and Knowledge:

Skills

• The ability to collaborate with diverse government and non-government stakeholders
• The ability to guide and mentor professionals and practitioners.
• Capacity to conduct research to advocate for inclusive education
• Proficiency in project management to ensure the successful execution of the program.
• Ability to write, summarize and document key policy notes
• Data Analysis and visualisation

Knowledge

• In-depth knowledge of education, health, and early childhood systems in India
• An understanding of educational theories and philosophies is crucial.
• Knowledge of various research methodologies.
• Knowledge of project management principles and practices.
• Awareness of Public policy analysis framework
• Basic statistical concepts and proficient knowledge on using a data analytical software

Required Qualifications :

• Preferably Master’s or Graduation in relevant fields (Education, Policy, Social Sciences) with a minimum 2 to 3 years experience in a relevant profile.
• Willingness to promote innovation and adapt to change.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently, with a strong commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
• Willingness to travel.

Working Location: New Delhi.