Abt Global is seeking a highly qualified individual to fill the role of Learning Enhancement and Access Program (LEAP) Procurement Specialist under the PNG Partnerships for Improving Education (PIE) Program. This role is based in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea and open to all applicants.
About the Program
The Partnerships for Improving Education (PIE) Program is a five-year initiative funded by the Government of Australia to support the Government of Papua New Guinea in providing better access to quality education for PNG’s children.
Launched on July 1, 2022, PIE focuses on early-grade education in Enga, Sandaun, Central, and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, driving policy and systemic reforms to create real, lasting change.
Expected End-of-Investment Outcomes (EOIO):
By testing, implementing, and monitoring innovative solutions, PIE is ensuring that every child gets the education they deserve.
Learning Enhancement and Access Program
As part of PIE, the Learning Enhancement and Access Program (LEAP) is being mobilised to improve the quality of early childhood education and pre-primary to Grade 2 (Prep-G2) levels in selected provinces. LEAP consists of four core components:
1. Preparing children to be ready to learn through Early Childhood Education (ECE): Supporting existing ECE centers to meet national quality standards.
2. Supporting teachers to teach effectively: Providing teaching and learning materials, delivering in-service teacher training and ongoing support, and upgrading teacher qualifications, focusing on preparatory to grade 2 teachers and head teachers in targeted provinces.
3. Modernizing the infrastructure and management of the education sector: Equipping the Ministry of Education with high-quality data management systems, piloting a national learning assessment system, and financing refurbishments to school infrastructure.
4. Project management, monitoring & evaluation, and capacity-building: Ensuring effective implementation, monitoring, evaluations, and capacity-building.
LEAP target locations: Provinces of Eastern Highlands, Simbu, Morobe, Madang, Milne Bay, East New Britain, New Ireland, and National Capital District.
About the Opportunity
To bring this transformational initiative to life, the National Department of Education (NDoE) is assembling a high-performing Project Management Unit and seeking a skilled Procurement Specialist to join the team!
To ensure seamless project preparation and implementation, a Project Preparation Grant (PPG), in partnership with PIE funding, will kickstart key activities for LEAP in 2025. LEAP will be financed by US$100 million in International Development Association loan, an additional US$50 million from OPEC, and an Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade grant worth USD 9.7million, resourcing the program through to October 6, 2031.
You will:
· Manage all procurement activities in line with World Bank guidelines.
· Ensure efficient sourcing of essential education resources and infrastructure.
· Collaborate with stakeholders to streamline procurement processes.
· Play a key role in delivering lasting improvements in early grade education.
The initial contract will be for 12 months, funded through PIE program.
This is your chance to ensure a stronger foundation for learning and leave a lasting legacy for PNG’s children.
About You
For applications to be considered, a response to the key selection criteria (About You) below must be provided.
Mandatory:
1. MA/MS (An advanced degree with a major in relevant discipline e.g., Engineering, Law, Procurement, Finance, Business, Project Management or Commerce), or other relevant qualifications.
2. Considerable proven practical experience (minimum 10 years of recent and relevant procurement assignments).
Desirable Criteria – Candidates that meet the following criteria will be considered favorably:
1. Procurement Expertise – Proven experience in managing procurement processes in accordance with international donor-funded project guidelines (e.g., World Bank, ADB).
2. Consulting Firm Procurement – Experience in hiring and managing consulting firms, including preparing Requests for Proposals (RFPs), evaluating bids, and negotiating contracts.
3. Contract Management – Strong knowledge of contract negotiation, administration, and compliance, ensuring adherence to procurement policies and procedures.
4. Financial and Risk Management – Ability to assess procurement risks, maintain financial accountability, and ensure cost-effective use of project funds.
5. Regulatory Compliance – Familiarity with public procurement laws in Papua New Guinea and international procurement standards.
6. Stakeholder Engagement – Strong communication and coordination skills to work effectively with government agencies, development partners, and suppliers.
7. Project Experience – Prior involvement in large-scale development projects, preferably in the education sector or public infrastructure.
8. Qualifications – A qualification in Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field. A recognized procurement certification (e.g., CIPS, PMP, or equivalent) is highly desirable. Bonus: Experience working on World Bank-funded projects is a strong advantage
For more information on the role and how to apply, please click on ‘Apply Now’
