Nutrition Field School Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the UN that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO's mission is to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With 195 Members, including 194 countries and the European Union, FAO operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through its Strategic Framework, supporting the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. FAO Country Offices provide policy advice and support to countries, ensuring effective operations and alignment with international standards of accountability.

Job Overview:
The Nutrition Field School Specialist will play a crucial role in enhancing food and nutrition security through diversified income generation and empowerment projects targeting vulnerable groups in Nepal. This position focuses on the implementation of Nutrition Field Schools (NFS), which serve as community-led learning platforms aimed at improving the technical knowledge and decision-making capacity of women, including adolescent girls, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and elderly individuals. The specialist will provide strategic, technical, and hands-on support to ensure quality implementation of NFS interventions, emphasizing nutrition-sensitive agriculture, climate-resilient practices, and inclusive approaches. The role requires close collaboration with various stakeholders, including local government and community organizations, to achieve project objectives and improve dietary intake among target populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for supporting the planning, implementation, and management of activities related to the nutrition component of the GAFSP PO project. Key responsibilities include developing and refining the NFS curriculum, providing technical support for training facilitators, assisting in the establishment of home and school nutrition gardens, and ensuring quality assurance of NFS operations. The specialist will also monitor and document project results, facilitate community consultations, and support the integration of gender-sensitive and inclusive practices in all NFS activities. Additionally, the role involves conducting routine monitoring, documenting good practices, and preparing reports on project achievements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Nutrition, Food Security, Agriculture, Public Health, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of experience in nutrition education, community-based nutrition, or food security programs is required. The position also requires a working knowledge of English and Nepali, as well as being a national of Nepal or a resident with a valid work permit. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in participatory training methods, community mobilization, and capacity building, along with experience in designing or implementing Nutrition Field Schools or similar approaches.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in Nutrition, Food Security, Agriculture, Public Health, or a related field is mandatory for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively contribute to the objectives of the FAO and the specific project.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in nutrition education, community-based nutrition, or food security programs. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in diverse locations or areas related to nutrition, demonstrating their ability to adapt to various contexts and challenges. Experience in local government, community mobilization, and campaign awareness-raising is also highly valued.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English and Nepali is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of the Tharu language is considered an asset, as it may enhance communication and engagement with local communities.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work location. Candidates will be assessed against the minimum requirements and selection criteria outlined in the job description. The role emphasizes the importance of gender sensitivity, inclusivity, and the promotion of women's empowerment within the context of nutrition and agricultural practices. Compensation and benefits details are not specified in the job ad.