National Consultant for Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative Certification

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child, emphasizing equity and the importance of addressing the needs of the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families. UNICEF employs a diverse workforce and offers opportunities for professional and personal development, fostering a culture of belonging and growth. The organization is known for its strong advocacy for children's rights and its commitment to sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant for Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative Certification will play a crucial role in strengthening the capacity of the State Control Service in Medical Activity and Social Protection of Population in Tajikistan. This position involves monitoring the implementation of national standards for Baby-Friendly Hospitals and the 10 steps to successful breastfeeding. The consultant will work closely with UNICEF's Health and Nutrition team and various government agencies to revise and update accreditation and certification standards, ensuring adherence to breastfeeding and infant and young child feeding (IYCF) requirements. The consultant's work will contribute to improving maternal and child health outcomes in Tajikistan, addressing the pressing issues of malnutrition and inadequate breastfeeding practices in the country. The assignment is expected to span 53 working days between December 2025 and April 2026, with a focus on collaboration and coordination with relevant stakeholders to achieve the objectives outlined in the terms of reference (TOR).

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key tasks, including:

• Establishing and leading a technical working group under the State Service for Control in Medical Activity and Social Protection of Population (Khadamot) to achieve the objectives of the TOR.
• Reviewing and updating existing accreditation and certification standards for maternity hospitals and primary healthcare facilities to align with WHO and UNICEF recommendations.
• Revising inspection and monitoring checklists used by Khadamot to include criteria for breastfeeding and IYCF counselling.
• Updating the functional responsibilities and work plans of the Internal Quality Control (IQC) Commissions at health facilities to ensure compliance with BFHI and IYCF requirements.
• Coordinating with relevant sectors and departments to ensure the implementation of revised standards and tools, including training for staff and dissemination of information to all branches of Khadamot.
• Consulting closely with UNICEF's Health and Nutrition team and other stakeholders to ensure the successful execution of the assignment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Medicine, Nutrition, Public Health, Health Policy, Public Policy, or related fields. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of experience in health and nutrition is required, preferably with a focus on accreditation in the health sector. Candidates should have a solid understanding of government processes in Tajikistan and experience working in government settings. Technical expertise in accreditation and inspection in health, particularly in maternal and child health and nutrition, is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to develop internal instructions and rules within the health sector.

Educational Background:
A university degree in a relevant field such as Medicine, Nutrition, Public Health, Health Policy, or Public Policy is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of health systems and the specific needs related to maternal and child health, nutrition, and breastfeeding practices.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in health and nutrition, with a strong emphasis on accreditation processes within the health sector. Candidates should have a grounded understanding of government procedures in Tajikistan and experience working in government settings, which will be vital for navigating the regulatory landscape and implementing necessary changes effectively.

Languages:
Excellent verbal and written skills in Tajik are mandatory for this position. Knowledge of English and/or Russian is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with international stakeholders and enhance the consultant's ability to engage with diverse audiences.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for 53 working days between December 2025 and April 202

• The consultant will report to the Nutrition Officer at UNICEF Tajikistan. Candidates are required to submit a CV, cover letter, technical proposal, financial proposal, and references. Applications must be received by 8 December 202
• UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization offers a range of benefits, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities.