Background
COSTECH began operations in 1986 and since then, it has been the principal advisory organ of the government on all matters relating to science, technology and innovation (STI). It is entrusted with the advisory role of formulating policy on science and technology and its implementation; it monitors and coordinates scientific research, technology development and transfer; acquires, stores and disseminates scientific and technological information and fosters regional and international cooperation.
From its establishment COSTECH has registered a number of milestone achievements that are documented in annual reports and reflected in the contribution of STI to the sustainable development of Tanzania. Broad achievements include establishment and review of policies related to STI, development and increased access to technologies (crop varieties, implements, drugs, conservation etc.), contribution to the National Strategy for Growth and Reduction of Poverty (NSGRP) and dissemination of STI information (media, conferences, workshops, participation in technical groups etc.). These have been made possible by the convening power of COSTECH to bring together stakeholders from all sectors (public and private) and all categories (formal and informal) to jointly discuss matters related to STI and development. COSTECH has also been able to garner larger government support in terms of funding for its activities that has built credibility in the research landscape. The commission is implementing the rolling strategic plan of 2015/2016 – 2019/2020, also is undergoing remarkable modernization including structural changes and implementation of new and more attractive scheme of service and
competitive salary structure. Due to the implementation of the strategic plan, the following positions are vacant and require to be filled as soon as possible.
3. NATIONAL FUND FOR ADVANCEMENT OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (NFAST) COORDINATOR
Reports to the Director General
Main Duties and Responsibilities
(i) To coordinate the NFAST and any other grants portfolio;
(ii) To prepare NFAST financial projections and submit to the NFAST committee;
(iii) To prepare and submit the NFAST expenditure report to the NFAST committee;
(iv) To participate in setting thematic areas of research of which concept notes would be requested from prospective applicants of NFAST grants;
(v) To ensure that, grants awarded, are in compliance with the COSTECH Manual granting instrument by observing all requirements therein;
(vi) To participate in monitoring of ongoing research activities in order to ensure compliance with plan of activities and discuss progress with both the researcher and the host institution;
(vii) To review progress reports of grantees both in terms of technical and financial submissions, and, when issues arise from narrative reports submitted by grantees, identify and resolve anomalies or any other problem, in cooperation with COSTECH Accounts/Audit Sections in order to ensure financial compliance according to standing financial regulations;
(viii) To ensure submission of final technical and financial reports from grantees and ensure that results are disseminated as per the proposed dissemination plan;
(ix) To ensure that the grants database is timely updated;
(x) To coordinate the NFAST Committee; and
(xi) To perform any other duties as assigned by superior.
Qualifications:
Holder of a Master degree in Economics, Business, Project Management or equivalent qualifications from recognized institutions. With demonstrated skill in research project monitoring and evaluation, research proposal review and grant management with at least twelve (12) years working experience in which 5 years should be at senior managerial position, with good knowledge in financial analysis, project management and research grant management. Demonstrated experience in research grants and or innovation fund management
in a reputable organization.
Salary scale –COSS 13
HOW TO APPLY
Interested and qualified candidates for these positions must submit the following for
consideration of the applications:-
1. Application letter, briefing stating why the candidate qualify for the position.
2. A current resume or a curriculum vita that provides clearly the applicant’s work experience and other relevant information for the job.
3. Academic and professional certificates and awards.
4. Names of three referees.
Applicants are requested to indicate their telephone numbers and e-mail addresses for easy
contact.
All applications must be addressed to the undersigned and must reach him within two weeks’
time after the first appearance of this advertisement in the newspaper.
Director General,
Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology,
P O Box 4302,
DAR ES SALAAM