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 initial research pilots in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The RA will assist in data collection, analysis, dissemination of findings, and organizing youth workshops.

Work Location

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Expected duration

14 Days

Duties and Responsibilities

• Data Collection: Conduct surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions with youth and other stakeholders in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan Assist in gathering quantitative and qualitative data on smart city initiatives, youth participation, and urban governance. • Data Analysis: Support the analysis of collected data to identify key themes and patterns related to youth engagement, spatial justice, and digital governance. Assist in the preparation of reports and presentations based on data analysis. • Community Engagement: Organize and facilitate participatory planning workshops with young people. Engage with local youth project working groups. • Policy Review and Development Assist in reviewing existing policies and frameworks related to smart city governance and youth participation. Contribute to developing policy recommendations to enhance youth inclusion, participation and equity in smart city governance. • Documentation and Reporting: Maintain detailed records of research activities, data collection, and analysis. Prepare periodic reports summarising research findings and progress. Contribute to the preparation of a comprehensive research report and illustrated version. • Coordination and Communication: Coordinate with local stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and academic institutions. Ensure effective communication between the research team and local partners. • Capacity Building Workshop Organisation: Support the organisation of capacity-building workshops for youth in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Assist in developing workshop materials and agendas focused on enhancing digital literacy, civic engagement, and participatory governance. Facilitate sessions during the workshops and provide logistical support to ensure smooth execution.

Qualifications/special skills

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

Languages

For the position advertised, fluency in English and Russian (both oral and written) is required.

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.