Program Officer - Education Research and Advocacy

About the role

The Program Officer supports the educational and implementation research agenda of the PEP MTCs program and leads advocacy efforts at the institutional level within CHAK Medical Training Colleges. The role strengthens research processes, promotes innovative teaching methods and seeks greater investment in cardiometabolic disease (CMD) education and research.

Key responsibilities

• Assist in designing and conducting CMD-focused educational and implementation research projects, supporting faculty and student engagement in research with inclusivity and gender responsiveness.
• Document and disseminate research findings to inform institutional teaching policies and national CMD strategies.
• Lead advocacy within CHAK MTCs for digital, blended and simulation-based learning and for increased investment in CMD education and research.
• Engage CHAK MTC leadership, faculty and students to build support for curriculum reform and innovative pedagogy.
• Support training workshops and mentorship programs to strengthen faculty and student research capacity, and run knowledge-sharing sessions on evidence-based advocacy.
• Work with partners such as CHAK, KMTC, KCCB, Amref, APHRC and NCD Alliance Kenya to align research and advocacy priorities.
• Track progress of initiatives, prepare reports, case studies and success stories, and contribute to donor reporting and institutional publications.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in a medical-related field such as Nursing, Clinical Medicine & Surgery or Medical Laboratory Sciences; a Master's degree is an added advantage.
• Minimum 3 years' experience in education and implementation research, advocacy or health systems strengthening.
• Experience as a tutor in medical training colleges.
• Proven expertise in competency-based education and faculty development.
• Strong understanding of CMDs, NCDs and workforce development challenges in Kenya.
• Experience in institutional advocacy and engagement with academic leadership.

Required skills

• Gender-responsive and equity-focused leadership.
• Research and analytical skills.
• Knowledge of innovative teaching methods and digital pedagogy.
• Collaborative ability with diverse stakeholders, advocacy and communication skills.