Overview of the MIS Associate Position
Organization: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization dedicated to poverty eradication, human development, sustainable economic growth, gender equality, and climate resilience. The organization works in nearly 170 countries to help build nations that can withstand crises, sustain democratic governance, and improve overall development.
This particular role is part of SWAPNO (Strengthening Women’s Ability for Productive New Opportunities), a gender-based social security project that empowers economically disadvantaged rural women. The project provides livelihood opportunities and skills training, aiming for financial inclusion, employment, and long-term resilience for its beneficiaries.
Job Detailshttp://UNDP MIS Associate Job in Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Position Title: MIS Associate
- Location: Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Agency: UNDP
- Job Schedule: Full-time
- Contract Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-7)
- Contract Duration: 1 Year (with possible extension based on performance and funding)
- Required Education: Minimum High School Certificate (Bachelor’s Degree in MIS, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related field is preferred but not mandatory)
- Required Experience:
- 7 years of experience with a Secondary Certificate
- 4 years of experience with a Bachelor’s Degree
- Language Requirements: Proficiency in English and Bengali
Background of the SWAPNO Project
Bangladesh’s Economic Growth and Development Challenges
Over the past decade, Bangladesh has made significant progress in economic growth and human development. However, several challenges remain:
- Fragile Employment Market – Many people work in the informal sector with low job security.
- Increasing Natural Disasters – Climate change has caused more frequent floods, cyclones, and droughts, impacting agriculture and livelihoods.
- COVID-19 Impact – The pandemic increased unemployment and widened economic inequality.
- Gender Inequality – Women, particularly in rural areas, still struggle to access economic opportunities.
cSWAPNO’s Vision and Goals@vacancyspaces.com
SWAPNO aims to empower women who are economically disadvantaged due to various reasons (widowed, divorced, or having a disabled spouse). The project provides:
- Livelihood training for self-employment
- Job placements in small and medium enterprises (SMEs)
- Financial inclusion programs (bank accounts, microloans, digital payments)
- Disaster resilience training
- Entrepreneurial skills development
Since its launch, 12,492 women have benefited from the program. The next phase (SWAPNO II) aims to expand to 12 districts and focus on creating sustainable employment and strengthening institutional capacity.
Key Responsibilities of the MIS Associate
As an MIS Associate, you will be responsible for designing, maintaining, and improving the Management Information System (MIS) for the SWAPNO project. Your duties will include:
1. System Development & Maintenance
- Assist in designing and implementing an efficient MIS.
- Ensure that data is accurately collected, stored, and analyzed for reporting.
- Support the development of digital tools and databases to improve data management.
2. Data Collection & Reporting
- Coordinate the gathering of data from different locations (Union Parishad level).
- Ensure proper data entry, verification, and validation.
- Generate quarterly and annual progress reports.
- Help prepare baseline, mid-term, and end-of-project evaluation reports.
3. Capacity Building & Training
- Train project team members and field staff on MIS usage and reporting.
- Provide guidance to data collectors to ensure accurate data collection.
- Organize training workshops on data collection and monitoring tools.
4. Field Supervision & Quality Assurance
- Visit project sites to monitor data collection activities.
- Ensure compliance with data security and integrity protocols.
- Oversee the maintenance of IT equipment and electronic devices used for data collection.
5. Support Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) Activities
- Work closely with the Monitoring & Evaluation Officer to track project progress.
- Assist in designing survey questionnaires and assessment tools.
- Ensure real-time data collection for decision-making and project adjustments.
Institutional Arrangement
The MIS Associate will report to:
- National Project Manager (NPM) – Overall supervision
- Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) Associate – Direct reporting line
The position is based in Dhaka, but requires field visits to project locations.
Required Skills and Competencies
Core Competencies
The ideal candidate should demonstrate strong analytical, technical, and communication skills.
- Achieve Results – Ability to plan, monitor, and deliver quality work.
- Think Innovatively – Open to new ideas and problem-solving techniques.
- Learn Continuously – Willing to adapt and grow with new skills.
- Adapt with Agility – Comfortable handling uncertainty and challenges.
- Act with Determination – Shows motivation, confidence, and perseverance.
- Engage and Partner – Builds positive relationships with stakeholders.
- Enable Diversity and Inclusion – Respects cultural differences and gender equity.
Technical Competencies
- Business Development & Human-Centered Design – Ability to create user-friendly data solutions.
- Data Analysis & Management – Proficiency in Excel, SPSS, Access, Kobo Toolbox.
- IT Research & Development – Understanding of digital technologies and database management.
- Digital Awareness – Knowledge of emerging trends in data collection and digital tools.
- Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) – Familiarity with research methodologies and evaluation techniques.
Desired Experience
- Experience in social protection, rural development, gender empowerment, and poverty reduction.
- Strong knowledge of project management and stakeholder engagement.
- Background in financial inclusion programs is an added advantage.
Why is This Role Important?
The MIS Associate plays a crucial role in ensuring data-driven decision-making for the SWAPNO project. The effectiveness of the MIS system impacts the overall success of the project by:
- Ensuring transparency and accountability – Reliable data helps track progress.
- Improving efficiency – A well-designed system reduces errors and duplication.
- Supporting policy-making – Data analysis helps in making informed decisions.
- Enhancing program impact – Accurate reporting ensures continuous improvement.
How to Apply?
Application Process
- Prepare Your Resume – Highlight relevant experience, technical skills, and competencies.
- Write a Cover Letter – Focus on how your background aligns with MIS development, data analysis, and M&E.
- Submit Your Application Online – Through the UNDP career portal before March 6, 2025.
- Interview Process – Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for technical and behavioral interviews.
Common Interview Questions
- How do you ensure data accuracy and security in an MIS system?
- Can you describe a time when you improved a data management system?
- What experience do you have with digital data collection tools?
Final Thoughts
This position is a great opportunity for professionals with data management, monitoring, and evaluation expertise who want to contribute to social impact and gender equality in Bangladesh. If you have strong IT skills, data analysis experience, and a passion for development work, this role could be an excellent fit for you.
In-Depth Explanation of the MIS Associate Role at UNDP, Dhaka, Bangladesh
The Management Information System (MIS) Associate position at UNDP in Dhaka, Bangladesh, is an important role that focuses on managing, monitoring, and improving data systems to support the SWAPNO (Strengthening Women’s Ability for Productive New Opportunities) Project. The project is designed to empower economically disadvantaged women through livelihood opportunities, skills development, and employment initiatives.
In this detailed explanation, we will cover the organization’s mission, project background, job responsibilities, technical requirements, and the overall impact of the position in great depth.
About UNDP: The Organization Behind the Position
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is one of the leading organizations under the United Nations (UN) focused on sustainable development, poverty eradication, gender equality, climate resilience, and democratic governance. Operating in over 170 countries, UNDP collaborates with governments, NGOs, civil society, and private sector partners to promote sustainable solutions to global and local challenges.
Some key areas of UNDP’s work include:
- Poverty Reduction – Assisting nations in reducing income inequality and providing economic opportunities.
- Gender Equality – Promoting equal access to resources, employment, and decision-making roles for women.
- Climate Action – Supporting climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and environmental conservation.
- Democratic Governance – Strengthening institutions, human rights, and the rule of law.
UNDP’s Bangladesh office is heavily involved in economic empowerment, disaster resilience, and social security programs, making it an essential driver of national development efforts.
Understanding the SWAPNO Project
The SWAPNO project is a social security and women’s empowerment initiative that focuses on providing job opportunities, financial inclusion, and skill development for vulnerable women. The target group primarily includes:
- Widowed, divorced, or separated women
- Women with husbands who are disabled or unable to work
- Unemployed women from extreme poverty backgrounds
The project follows a multi-dimensional approach to help women achieve economic independence, social security, and sustainable livelihoods.
Key Objectives of SWAPNO
- Financial Inclusion – Ensuring that women have access to bank accounts, microloans, and digital payment systems.
- Skill Development – Training women in business, agriculture, handicrafts, and digital skills to increase employability.
- Job Placement – Connecting women to formal jobs in SMEs and other sectors.
- Entrepreneurship – Encouraging women to start small businesses by providing funding and mentorship.
- Disaster Resilience – Training women on climate change adaptation and emergency response strategies.
- Local Government Capacity Building – Strengthening institutions to implement pro-poor policies.
Since its inception, 12,492 women have benefited from the program, and SWAPNO II aims to expand to 12 additional districts.
Role of the MIS Associate in the SWAPNO Project
The MIS Associate plays a crucial role in supporting data collection, management, and analysis for the project. The position ensures that SWAPNO’s activities are monitored effectively and that data-driven decisions are made to improve outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
1. MIS Development and Implementation
- Assist in designing, developing, and implementing an effective Management Information System (MIS).
- Ensure that data is collected, stored, and analyzed efficiently to generate reports.
- Work closely with software developers and M&E officers to enhance data tracking and reporting tools.
- Improve database management systems to track beneficiaries, financial transactions, and project activities.
2. Data Collection & Quality Control
- Coordinate the gathering of data from different locations, especially Union Parishad offices.
- Ensure proper data validation, verification, and accuracy.
- Maintain electronic and paper records for easy access and audit compliance.
- Develop real-time data collection methods using mobile apps and digital tools.
3. Reporting & Analysis
- Generate quarterly, mid-year, and annual reports based on collected data.
- Use data visualization tools (Excel, Power BI, SPSS, and Kobo Toolbox) to present insights.
- Assist in preparing reports for donors, government agencies, and stakeholders.
- Identify trends, challenges, and opportunities based on data analysis.
4. Capacity Building & Staff Training
- Train field staff and NGO partners on how to use MIS tools and data collection methods.
- Conduct workshops to improve digital literacy and reporting efficiency.
- Ensure project teams are well-versed in data entry, analysis, and interpretation.
5. Field Visits & Monitoring
- Travel to project sites for monitoring and evaluation activities.
- Ensure compliance with data security and privacy standards.
- Identify technical issues in MIS implementation and propose solutions.
6. IT & System Maintenance
- Oversee the maintenance of IT systems at project and field offices.
- Troubleshoot hardware and software issues related to data collection.
- Ensure all electronic devices are functional and up to date.
Key Competencies and Skills Required
Core Competencies
To be successful in this role, the MIS Associate should demonstrate:
- Analytical Thinking – Ability to interpret data, identify trends, and generate meaningful reports.
- Attention to Detail – Ensuring accuracy in data collection, entry, and analysis.
- Technical Expertise – Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Access, SPSS, Kobo Toolbox, and database management.
- Problem-Solving Skills – Ability to troubleshoot IT and system-related issues.
- Communication Skills – Ability to train field staff and present data in a clear and concise manner.
- Teamwork – Collaborating effectively with M&E officers, project managers, and field coordinators.
Technical Skills & Software Knowledge
- Data Analysis: Experience with SPSS, Power BI, Stata, or Tableau is beneficial.
- Database Management: Knowledge of SQL, MS Access, or cloud-based data storage systems.
- Survey Tools: Familiarity with Kobo Toolbox, ODK Collect, or Google Forms for data collection.
- Programming (Optional): Basic knowledge of Python, R, or VBA can be an added advantage.
Why This Role Matters
The MIS Associate is crucial in ensuring data-driven decision-making within the SWAPNO project. Accurate and timely data collection helps in:
- Identifying gaps and challenges in project implementation.
- Measuring impact – ensuring that SWAPNO achieves its goals effectively.
- Supporting evidence-based policymaking for gender empowerment and rural development.
- Enhancing transparency and accountability – ensuring that resources are used efficiently.
- Driving continuous improvement – enabling better planning and resource allocation.
Application Process
How to Apply?
- Prepare Your Resume – Highlight relevant experience in MIS, data management, and M&E.
- Write a Cover Letter – Emphasize your technical skills and contributions to past projects.
- Submit Your Application Online – Through the UNDP career portal before March 6, 2025.
- Prepare for the Interview – Expect technical and competency-based questions.
Final Thoughts
The MIS Associate position at UNDP provides a unique opportunity for professionals in data management, monitoring, and evaluation to make a real impact in gender empowerment and poverty reduction in Bangladesh. If you have a strong background in IT systems, data collection, and reporting, this could be the perfect role for you!
Would you like assistance with resume building, a cover letter, or interview preparation? Let me know how I can help! 😊
Comprehensive Guide to the MIS Associate Role at UNDP, Dhaka, Bangladesh
The Management Information System (MIS) Associate position at UNDP in Dhaka, Bangladesh, is a critical role that involves data management, analysis, reporting, and system optimization to ensure the smooth execution of the SWAPNO (Strengthening Women’s Ability for Productive New Opportunities) Project. This project is dedicated to improving the economic and social conditions of vulnerable women by providing them with livelihood opportunities, financial inclusion, and employment pathways.
This in-depth analysis will cover:
- Background of UNDP and the SWAPNO project
- Detailed job responsibilities and institutional arrangement
- Technical expertise and skills required for the role
- Impact and significance of the MIS Associate in the project’s success
- Career development opportunities associated with this role
- Application process and interview preparation tips
Understanding UNDP: A Global Organization for Sustainable Development
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that plays a crucial role in supporting sustainable development, economic growth, and social progress in over 170 countries.
UNDP’s Mission and Core Objectives
UNDP’s mission is centered around poverty eradication, reducing inequalities, and promoting climate resilience. The organization works closely with governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil society, and private sector partners to develop policies and initiatives that contribute to long-term development.
Some of the key focus areas of UNDP include:
- Poverty Reduction – Developing programs that empower communities, create employment, and provide social protection.
- Gender Equality – Ensuring equal opportunities for men and women in all spheres, particularly in economic participation.
- Climate Action – Strengthening disaster resilience and sustainable environmental management.
- Democratic Governance – Promoting human rights, institutional development, and the rule of law.
- Innovation & Digital Transformation – Leveraging technology and digital tools to enhance development programs.
UNDP in Bangladesh
Bangladesh has seen remarkable progress in economic development and human rights advancements. However, the nation still faces significant challenges, such as:
- Extreme poverty and unemployment
- Gender inequality and discrimination in the workforce
- Disaster vulnerability due to climate change
To address these challenges, UNDP Bangladesh has launched multiple initiatives, including the SWAPNO Project, which focuses on economic empowerment for vulnerable women.
The SWAPNO Project: Empowering Women in Rural Bangladesh
The SWAPNO (Strengthening Women’s Ability for Productive New Opportunities) Project is a gender-focused initiative aimed at providing livelihood opportunities and financial inclusion for disadvantaged women, particularly those who are:
- Widowed, divorced, or separated
- Married to disabled or unemployed individuals
- Living in extreme poverty with no financial support
Key Goals of SWAPNO
The project is designed to lift women out of economic insecurity through:
- Job placements in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and private sector companies
- Financial literacy training to encourage savings and investment
- Skill development programs to enhance employment opportunities
- Entrepreneurial training for women who wish to start their own businesses
- Disaster resilience education to prepare women for climate-related challenges
Achievements and Expansion Plans
Since its inception, SWAPNO has benefited 12,492 women across five districts. The next phase (SWAPNO II) aims to expand to 12 more districts, focusing on both younger women (18–30 years) and middle-aged women (31–45 years).
By leveraging data, digital tools, and strategic partnerships, SWAPNO aims to maximize financial inclusion, develop industry skills, and promote sustainable economic growth.
The Role of the MIS Associate in SWAPNO
The Management Information System (MIS) Associate plays a pivotal role in ensuring that data-driven decision-making is at the core of the project’s success.
Primary Responsibilities of the MIS Associate
The MIS Associate will be responsible for:
1. Developing and Managing the MIS System
- Assist in designing and implementing a Management Information System (MIS) tailored for SWAPNO’s objectives.
- Ensure the accuracy, security, and efficiency of data management.
- Develop database structures, reporting dashboards, and analytics tools.
2. Data Collection and Quality Control
- Gather data from field offices, Union Parishad, and implementing partners.
- Verify the accuracy and consistency of collected data.
- Implement real-time data collection techniques to improve efficiency.
3. Report Writing and Data Visualization
- Compile quarterly and annual progress reports.
- Use data analytics tools (Excel, Power BI, SPSS, Kobo Toolbox) to generate meaningful insights.
- Present findings and trends to stakeholders and decision-makers.
4. Capacity Building and Training
- Train field officers and NGO partners on data collection methodologies.
- Organize workshops to improve digital literacy among project staff.
5. Monitoring and Field Visits
- Conduct site visits to ensure proper implementation of data systems.
- Monitor on-the-ground operations and address any data-related challenges.
6. IT Support and System Maintenance
- Maintain all hardware and software systems used in data collection.
- Troubleshoot technical issues to ensure uninterrupted project operations.
Skills and Expertise Required
To be successful in this role, candidates must possess:
Core Competencies
- Strong Analytical Thinking – Ability to interpret data, identify patterns, and provide insights.
- Attention to Detail – Ensuring data accuracy and consistency.
- Communication Skills – Ability to present findings clearly and train stakeholders.
- Team Collaboration – Working effectively with M&E officers, project managers, and IT teams.
Technical Expertise
- Proficiency in Data Analysis Tools: Excel, Power BI, SPSS, SQL, Stata
- Database Management: Experience in managing large-scale data repositories
- Survey & Data Collection: Familiarity with Kobo Toolbox, ODK Collect, Google Forms
- Programming (Optional): Basic knowledge of Python, R, or VBA for data analysis
Why This Role is Important
The MIS Associate is a vital component of the SWAPNO project because:
- Accurate data collection ensures that project funds and resources are allocated effectively.
- Data-driven decision-making leads to better employment outcomes for beneficiaries.
- Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) help assess the impact of SWAPNO’s initiatives.
- Technology integration improves the efficiency and scalability of the project.
By supporting evidence-based policy implementation, this role directly contributes to gender equality, economic empowerment, and poverty alleviation.
How to Apply?
- Prepare a Strong Resume – Highlight your experience in MIS, data management, and analytics.
- Write a Compelling Cover Letter – Showcase your technical expertise and motivation for joining UNDP.
- Submit Your Application Online – Apply before March 6, 2025, via the UNDP career portal.
- Prepare for the Interview – Expect competency-based and technical questions.
Final Thoughts
This MIS Associate position at UNDP Bangladesh is an exceptional opportunity for professionals with expertise in data management, reporting, and monitoring & evaluation (M&E). The role provides the chance to contribute to an impactful social security program, helping thousands of women achieve financial stability and employment.
