TERMS OF REFERENCE (TORs) FOR RECRUITING AN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT) OFFICER FOR FAWE RWANDA CHAPTER
1. Background
The Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) is a membership-based Pan-African Non-Governmental Organization that operates through 34 National Chapters in 33 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa to promote girls’ and women’s education. FAWE’s vision, mission and goal focus on quality education for girls and women socio-economic empowerment. FAWE Rwanda is one of 33 national chapters. FAWE Rwanda Chapter was started in 1997 and since its inception, FAWE Rwanda has grown to become a reputable partner and focal point on female education in Rwanda.
FAWE Rwanda Chapter would like to recruit an IT Officer for a period of 3 years renewable based on performance and funding availability.
2. Purpose of the position:
The IT Officer will provide effective, reliable, secure and innovative ICT services that enable FAWE Rwanda to effectively deliver its programmes and achieve its organizational objectives. The IT Officer will be responsible for the day-to-day management, availability, security and continuous enhancement of the organization’s overall ICT infrastructure (i.e., systems, digital platforms, data, equipment) and user support services.
The Officer will ensure that staff always have the appropriate technology, systems and digital skills to work effectively and efficiently while proactively identifying opportunities to utilize emerging technologies and automation to improve organizational efficiency, programme delivery, collaboration and knowledge management. The details of the position are shown below:
The position will be working closely with the Communications Officer on FAWE Rwanda website with the IT Officer providing technical administration, security, hosting, performance, backups and systems support while the Communications Officer retains overall responsibility for content, editorial direction, messaging, visibility and other communication outputs.
Job Title: Information Technology Officer
Job family: Technical
Job Grade
Reports to: Finance & Admin Manager
Direct reports: None Job
Purpose:
The core purpose of the IT Officer is to provide secure, reliable and innovative ICT services that enable FAWE Rwanda's staff and programmes to operate effectively. The IT Officer will manage and support ICT infrastructure, digital systems, cybersecurity, data, IT assets and digital platforms. Provide technical support to projects and organizational initiatives, build staff digital capacity, and identify opportunities to leverage emerging technologies, automation and innovation to improve efficiency, programme delivery and organizational performance.
Performance areas
ICT Infrastructure, Technical Support & Service Delivery
- Maintain, monitor, and optimize the organization's ICT infrastructure, including computers, servers, networks, internet connectivity, printers, and related systems to ensure reliable and efficient operations.
- Provide technical support by diagnosing and resolving hardware, software, network, and system-related issues in a timely manner.
- Administer and support the organization's Microsoft ecosystem, including Microsoft 365, Dynamics 365 Business Central, email systems, user accounts, access controls, and collaboration platforms to ensure secure and reliable service delivery.
- Manage and monitor server environments, cloud services, and network infrastructure to ensure high availability, performance, and security of ICT services.
- Implement and maintain cybersecurity measures, including endpoint protection, antivirus solutions, patch management, access controls, and security monitoring.
- Manage data storage, backup, recovery, and business continuity processes to safeguard organizational information and minimize operational risks.
- Liaise with ICT vendors, service providers, and maintenance partners to ensure effective service delivery, contract compliance, and timely resolution of technical issues.
- Maintain accurate ICT asset inventories, system documentation, software licenses, and infrastructure records to support accountability and compliance requirements.
- Train and support staff in the effective use of ICT systems, applications, and digital tools while promoting adherence to ICT policies and best practices.
- Evaluate, test, and support the implementation of new technologies, systems, and digital solutions, while preparing periodic reports and recommendations to enhance ICT service delivery and operational efficiency.
- Support the planning, implementation, and monitoring of the ICT budget to ensure effective utilization of technology resources
Website management andbackups
- Support in organising and updating FAWE website content with latest information, pictures and videos.
- Coordinate with the Communication Officer in managing the blog page for testimonies and success stories.
- Monitor and protect FAWE Rwanda Website against threats together with the host company.
- Support programmes to share monthly report on the Website performance by highlighting metrics such as unique visitors, new users, returning users and bounce rate.
- Production of infographics and other data visualization materials.
- Create secure backups of the Website together with the hosting company.
Content Creation:
- Provide technical support for FAWE's website, including ensuring its availability, security, functionality, content management access, system updates, backups, and overall performance, in collaboration with the Communications and Advocacy Officer.
- Support the Communications and Advocacy Officer by maintaining the technical infrastructure required for website content publication and digital communication platforms, ensuring seamless and secure operation of these systems.
Managing FAWE Emails
- Manage FAWE Rwanda's email systems and ensure they are protected against security threats and unauthorized access.
- Create, activate, suspend, and deactivate email accounts; assign appropriate access rights; manage passwords and security settings; and maintain email system configurations.
- Monitor the availability, security, and performance of the email system to ensure reliable service delivery.
- Manage shared mailboxes, distribution groups, and email aliases in accordance with organizational needs.
- Ensure the timely deactivation and archiving of email accounts when staff exit the organization, in line with FAWE policies and data protection requirements.
- Troubleshoot and resolve email delivery, login, synchronization, and account-related issues.
- Implement and maintain email security measures, including spam filtering, phishing protection, multi-factor authentication, and threat monitoring.
- Maintain backups and support the recovery of email data where applicable.
- Ensure staff adherence to FAWE's email usage, information security, and acceptable use policies.
- Build staff capacity on email management, cybersecurity, and the effective use of digital communication tools through regular training, coaching, user support, and awareness sessions.
- Develop and disseminate user guides, ICT tips, and best practices to strengthen staff digital literacy, promote safe online behavior, and enhance compliance with organizational IT policies and procedures.
- Provide orientation and onboarding support to new staff on organizational email systems, ICT resources, and information security requirements..
Technical contribution to Resource Mobilization
- Participate in design of project proposals for future funding.
- Search and share prospective funders and funding opportunities for FAWE Rwanda programs.
- Representing FAWE Rwanda in technical program partnership forums when deemed necessary.
- Provide support to procurement and logistical processes related to resource mobilization initiatives and other assigned activities within the scope of the role.
Project Management:
- Provide technical expertise and guidance in the design, implementation, monitoring, and continuous improvement of projects that incorporate ICT, digital transformation, STEM, innovation, data systems, and technology-enabled solutions.
- Support programme teams in project planning and implementation by identifying ICT requirements, developing technical specifications, proposing appropriate technology solutions, and contributing to project budgets and implementation plans.
- Provide technical support to the implementation of FAWE programmes, including the Mastercard Foundation Phase II Programme and other initiatives requiring digital, STEM, or technology-based interventions.
- Coordinate and support the implementation of technology-related project activities, including system configuration, testing, user acceptance testing (UAT), pilot initiatives, deployment, training, and project close-out processes.
- Monitor and report on ICT-related project deliverables, risks, performance indicators, and outcomes, while contributing to project documentation, donor reporting, knowledge management, and lessons learned.
- Collaborate with programme, MEL, finance, and communications teams to ensure technology solutions effectively support programme delivery, data quality, accountability, and organizational learning.
- Support the integration of innovative digital tools and technologies that enhance programme effectiveness, operational efficiency, beneficiary engagement, and evidence-based decision-making.
- Contribute technical expertise to the development of concept notes, project proposals, and resource mobilization initiatives, particularly those related to STEM education, digital inclusion, technology, innovation, and ICT4D (Information and Communication Technology for Development).
- Provide technical oversight and support to external ICT consultants, software developers, vendors, and service providers engaged in programme-related technology projects, ensuring adherence to project requirements and organizational standards.
Person specifications Academic & professional qualifications
- Bachelor degree in computer science, IT, and other relevant field of study.
Professional certifications such as ITIL, PMP/PRINCE2, CompTIA, Microsoft, cybersecurity, cloud computing, data protection or other relevant ICT certifications will be an added advantage but are not mandatory.
Essential experience
- Working experience of at least 5 years holding a similar position in an NGO.
- Aware of current web technologies and computer infrastructure.
- Experience in prioritizing and sequencing both programmatic and operational activities;
- Problem-solving and decision-making in challenging environment.
- Ability to communicate consistently, clearly and effectively both written and oral with a range of stakeholders
Essential/Desirable working knowledge
- Strong understanding of day-to-day technological support in busy organisation; preferably an NGO.
- ICT infrastructure, networking, internet technologies, cloud computing, and related system administration.
- Microsoft technologies, including Windows operating systems, Microsoft 365, Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive, and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central or similar enterprise platforms.
- Cybersecurity, data protection, identity and access management, endpoint security, email security, ICT risk management, and applicable ICT regulations and policies in Rwanda.
- Website and digital platform management, including content management systems (e.g., WordPress), web hosting, domains, DNS, SSL certificates, and related web technologies.
- Data management, backup and recovery, disaster recovery, and business continuity planning.
- IT service management, helpdesk operations, ICT asset and license management, procurement processes, vendor management, and technology support services.
- Technology project implementation, digital transformation, emerging technologies (including AI and automation), and technology solutions for NGOs and development programmes.
Essential skills
- Strong organizational and effective time management and multitasking.
- Effective communication skills (oral, written), proficient in English language, and effective report witing.
- Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills
- Cybersecurity awareness and risk management
- Project coordination and implementation skills
- Ability to train and build staff capacity on various aspects of technology and digital literacy
Personality
- Sociable, mature, integrity
- Ability to work under minimum supervision (self-mover)
- Ability to work under strict deadlines and remain on track.
- Curious and committed to continuous learning.
- Innovative and open to new technologies.
- Ability to explain technical issues in simple, non-technical language
- Demonstrates sound judgement when handling sensitive information and ICT security matters
3. Job application procedures
- Application letter addressed to FAWE Rwanda Executive Director and Education certificates (combined in pdf);
- Recent Curriculum Vitae (CV)with three referees with proven work Experience including service certificate (combined in pdf).
- Highly qualified candidates should send their cover letter; well detailed CV and copies of degrees and certificates.
How to Apply
Interested candidate should submit their application no later than 15th October 2026. Please click on the “Apply Now” button to complete your application.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.