Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is a leading UN agency that focuses on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, working to ensure universal access to reproductive health, promote reproductive rights, and reduce maternal mortality and morbidity. The organization is committed to addressing the needs of women and girls, particularly in vulnerable situations, and aims to empower them through education and health services. UNFPA's mission is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization emphasizes the importance of ethical standards and principled staff who can advocate for human rights and gender equality.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant position is crucial for supporting the design, planning, and management of the Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) program in Nigeria. The role involves working closely with program and project staff to provide both programmatic and administrative support. The Programme Assistant will be responsible for managing data inputs, logistical support, and monitoring project implementation. This position is integral to the UNFPA's 9th Country Programme (2023-2027), which focuses on strengthening data systems, enhancing health system capacities, and addressing gender and social norms. The Programme Assistant will play a key role in ensuring compliance with established procedures and facilitating effective program implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Program Implementation Support: Participating in the identification and formulation of country programs and projects, compiling and analyzing relevant information, drafting project documents, and preparing statistical data. Ensuring proper documentation and processing of Implementing Partners’ Annual Work Plans and quarterly FACE Forms. Supporting the evaluation of project activities and establishing mechanisms to assess results, conducting field visits, and preparing regular progress reports.
• Program Administrative Support: Coordinating with the RH unit to provide administrative and programmatic support for project implementation, facilitating participation of national counterparts, and monitoring activities. Providing logistical support for meetings and workshops, guiding project personnel on national execution policies, and facilitating travel arrangements for Programme Officers.
• Program Monitoring and Knowledge Management Support: Contributing to knowledge creation by documenting findings, success stories, and best practices. Supporting advocacy and resource mobilization efforts by compiling relevant background materials and ensuring proper management of filing and archiving systems. Performing any other duties as assigned by the Representative or designate.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must exemplify integrity, demonstrate commitment to UNFPA and the UN system, embrace cultural diversity, and be adaptable to change. They should possess strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, be accountable, and have the ability to work effectively in teams. Additionally, candidates should have a client-oriented mindset and be proficient in organizational awareness and technical expertise relevant to the role.

Educational Background:
Candidates should possess a secondary school certificate, with a bachelor’s degree or Higher National Diploma in Secretarial Administration, Public Administration, Public Health, Health Economy, Medicine, Sociology, or a related field being desirable. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of program and administrative support in the context of UNFPA's mission.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of working experience in program and administrative support is required. Experience in maternal health, family planning, and midwifery is desirable. Prior experience with the United Nations or national and international NGOs in the area of Maternal Health will be considered an advantage. Candidates should also be proficient in current office software applications, including MS Word, MS Excel, and MS PowerPoint, and possess strong time management skills to handle multiple timelines and activities effectively.

Languages:
Proficiency in both written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. This language requirement is essential for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role under a Local Service Contract for a duration of one year, with the possibility of renewal based on funding availability and satisfactory performance. The positions are specifically for Nigerian nationals, and selected candidates should be prepared to be assigned to any of the three duty stations: Ilorin, Yola, or Sokoto. It is important to note that there is no expectancy of renewal in accordance with UN staff regulations.