Position: Researcher – Education Funding and Systems Efficiency
Level: Advanced
Term: Permanent
Salary Range: R324 000 – R402,000 per annum
Location: South Africa. Gauteng, Western Cape, Eastern Cape. Hybrid.
About Equal Education
Equal Education (EE) is a youth-led mass democratic movement of learners, post-school youth, parents,
teachers and community members who use mobilisation and public action, supported by careful
research, to empower young activists and ensure equality in South African education. A democratic
movement, EE’s National Council (made up of learners, parents, post-school youth, and experienced
activists along with our General Secretary and Deputy General Secretary) are elected at our national
Congress, held every three years.
Equal Education aspires to be a place where all of our members become conscious and active
participants in society who strive to resist patriarchy, tribalism, ageism, sexism, racism and other forms
of discriminatory practices that operate in our homes, communities and places of work. As a member of
staff, one must commit to upholding EE’s principles for a safe and welcoming work environment. Our
principles aim to create an environment that enables growth, inclusivity and is safe for all who pass
through the organisation.
Research in Equal Education
The Research Department plays a vital role in EE’s advocacy and activism by producing evidence-based
analyses that inform campaigns and strategies. Its work is guided by the lived experiences of members
and focuses on themes including education funding, spatial justice, and safety.
The Researcher – Education Funding and Systems Efficiency will lead and support research on the
economics of public education and the efficiency of education policies, including investigating the
efficacy of policy interventions and its relation to learning environments and learning outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
Research
● Undertake primary and secondary research on education funding and systems efficiency.
● Produce research outputs such as policy briefs, discussion documents, submissions to
legislatures, and popular education materials, managing the research process from start to
finish.
● Practice reliable methodologies, including robust statistical analyses, and ensuring that research
is grounded in Participatory Action Research methodologies.
● Monitoring of local and international education news, education research, education policy and
law reform related to thematic area.
● Collaborate with EE’s other departments, membership, the EELC, and other stakeholders in the
sector to ensure that research is driven by the movement and responsive to external context.
● Ensure EE staff and members are informed on latest developments in the sector, relevant to EE’s
strategic areas of focus.Collaboration, Stakeholder and Public Engagement, Media:
● Undertake advocacy to ensure optimal reach and influence of research findings and
recommendations; including through strategic and ad-hoc interventions in the media,
participating in spaces for engagement on law, policy and political priorities, and on other public
platforms.
● Develop and implement strategies and tactics to advance research and EE campaign objectives.
● Relationship building with strategic stakeholders for collaboration on research and strategic
advocacy; and with stakeholders in state structures.
● Supporting community engagement in relevant EE offices, including visiting schools in the
province
● Work with EE’s Governance, Communications, and Organising departments in drafting
statements and/or op-eds on matters related to the work of the movement.
Qualifications and Competencies
● Postgraduate degree in Education, Economics, or a relevant field in other Social Sciences.
● 2-3 years’ experience in policy research, public finance analysis, or similar research-intensive
roles.
● Proven research experience with strong writing and editing skills.
● Knowledge of the South African education system, education policy, and the status of the right to
basic education; and public finance and government budget analysis is strongly advantageous.
● Proficiency in statistical tools such as STATA, R, or equivalent would be an advantage.
● Commitment to social justice and equality in education
Application Process:
Each application should include your CV, three contactable references, and a one-page motivation. You
should motivate specifically for the position you are applying for and also detail your interest and
suitability to work at EE. In addition, applicants are required to submit one or two samples of their
research and writing that demonstrate the required skills and competencies for this role.
Candidates selected for an interview may be required to complete an assignment after the interview.
Applications must be sent to hr@equaleducation.org.za, please include the job title that you are
applying for in your subject line.
Members
Facilitators
Provinces
Equalisers
Parents
