UN Volunteer - Education and Child Protection

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, also known as the United Nations Children's Fund, is a prominent United Nations agency dedicated to providing humanitarian and developmental aid to children across the globe. Established in 1946, UNICEF has grown to become one of the most recognized social welfare organizations, operating in 192 countries and territories. The agency's mission is to ensure that every child has the opportunity to survive, thrive, and fulfill their potential, which includes providing essential services such as immunizations, education, and emergency relief in times of crisis. With a workforce of thousands of employees and volunteers, UNICEF works tirelessly to advocate for children's rights and improve their living conditions worldwide.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer position focuses on enhancing Early Childhood Education and Development (ECDE) systems at the county level in Kenya, particularly in areas hosting refugees and vulnerable populations. The role involves supporting government and partner coordination to ensure that refugee children are included in county development plans. The volunteer will engage with communities to promote inclusive education, assist in organizing educational activities, and support the implementation of programs aimed at improving learning outcomes for children and adolescents. The position requires a commitment to fostering an inclusive educational environment and addressing the unique challenges faced by children in refugee settings, ensuring they have access to quality education and protection services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Strengthening ECDE systems by coordinating with government and partners to include refugee children in development plans.
• Supporting community engagement initiatives, such as organizing parent dialogues and awareness sessions on mental health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support.
• Facilitating flexible learning pathways for out-of-school children and youth through community outreach and monitoring of educational programs.
• Promoting STEM learning by organizing competitions and mentorship activities in schools.
• Participating in youth-led innovation challenges and documenting success stories related to skills development programs.
• Assisting in the development of educational activities at reception and Furaha centers.
• Supporting the arrangement of alternative family care for refugee children.
• Engaging parents and communities in positive parenting and education initiatives.
• Participating in working groups focused on child protection and education, documenting best practices. 1
• Conducting field monitoring visits to assess implementation progress and recommend improvements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in diverse teams. A commitment to child rights and a passion for education and community development are essential. The ideal candidate should be adaptable, flexible, and able to navigate complex environments. Proficiency in project management and monitoring and evaluation techniques is highly desirable, along with a strong understanding of the challenges faced by children in refugee contexts.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in education, social sciences, international development, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in child protection, early childhood education, or humanitarian response would be an asset. Candidates should have a solid understanding of educational policies and practices, particularly in the context of vulnerable populations and refugees.

Experience:
The position requires prior experience in education, child protection, or community development, preferably in a humanitarian or refugee context. Experience working with government agencies, NGOs, or international organizations is highly valued. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of successful project implementation and community engagement, as well as experience in monitoring and evaluation of educational programs.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of Kiswahili is an advantage, as it will facilitate communication with local communities. Additional languages relevant to the refugee populations in the area would be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position under the UNV program, which may have specific terms regarding contract duration and benefits. The role is full-time and may involve travel to various locations within Kenya, particularly in refugee-hosting areas. The living conditions in Kenya vary, with Nairobi offering modern amenities and services, while other regions may present more challenging environments. Volunteers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the local culture and socio-economic conditions to effectively engage with the communities they serve.