Senior Research Officer Culture (Ministry of Itaukei Affairs)

The position will ensure that all reform recommendations are implemented through a cultural lens, safeguarding iTaukei values, customs, and traditions throughout the legislative and institutional reform process. This role is pivotal in integrating indigenous knowledge and cultural safeguards to maintain the integrity of iTaukei heritage within policy and institutional changes.

Key Responsibilities

The position will achieve its purpose through the following key duties:

1. Cultural Analysis: Analyze policy and legislative reforms to ensure they align with iTaukei cultural norms, protocols, and traditions.

2. Cultural Advisory: Provide expert cultural advice to guide the drafting of legislation, community consultations, and communication strategies to ensure cultural appropriateness.

3. Collaboration with Cultural Institutions: Coordinate with iTaukei cultural institutions, elders, and experts to embed indigenous knowledge and perspectives into reform outcomes.

4. Policy Integration: Assist in the development and implementation of institutional policies and procedures that incorporate cultural safeguards.

5. Community Engagement: Facilitate engagement with iTaukei communities to ensure their cultural views and concerns are reflected in reforms.

6. Capacity Building: Support training and awareness programs within the Ministry and partner organizations on cultural sensitivities and protocols.

7. Monitoring and Reporting: Monitor the implementation of cultural safeguards in reforms andprovide regular reports on progress and challenges

Knowledge & Experience

1. 1. At least 3-5 years’ experience in practical experience in a similar role
2. 2. Significant experience working with indigenous institutions or on cultural policy development
3. 3. Strong understanding of iTaukei traditional governance, societal structures, and cultural protocols
4. 4. Proven ability to analyse policy and legislative documents through a cultural perspective
5. 5. Experience in community engagement and consultation within indigenous settings.
6. 6. Understanding of teams and how to manage and motivate work within a high performing team;

Skills & Abilities

1. 1. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work sensitively with diverse cultural groups
2. 2. Ability to provide clear, culturally informed advice to policymakers and stakeholders.
3. 3. Strong analytical skills with attention to cultural detail and nuance.
4. 4. Capacity to coordinate and collaborate effectively with cultural experts and institutions.
5. 5. Skilled in preparing reports, briefing notes, and presentations for a range of audiences.
6. 6. Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
7. 7. Commitment to preserving and promoting iTaukei cultural heritage in all aspects of reform.

Additional Information

Applications for employment in the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs must be a Fijian Citizen, under the age of 60, in sound health with police clear record. The successful applicant will be required to provide a medical certificate and police clearance as a condition of employment.

The Ministry of iTaukei Affairs is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Applications are encourages from all eligible, qualified applicants. Only specific knowledge, experience, skills and abilities or the job will be considered in assessing the relative suitability of applicants

Contact Information

For further information and/or clarifications, please contact Mr. Taniela Kuruduadua on mobile: 9043765 or email: taniela.kuruduadua@itaukeiaffairs.gov.fj