UN Volunteer Child Protection and Education Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established by the United Nations General Assembly, is dedicated to advocating for children's rights, ensuring their basic needs are met, and expanding opportunities for them to reach their full potential. Since its inception in 1946, UNICEF has been instrumental in promoting the rights of children globally, guided by the Convention on the Rights of the Child. In Brazil, UNICEF has been active since 1950, contributing to significant advancements in child welfare, including immunization campaigns, educational access, and the fight against child labor. The organization focuses on vulnerable populations, particularly in regions like the Amazon and Northeast Brazil, where children face extreme forms of violence and exclusion. UNICEF's current cooperation program with the Brazilian Government for 2024-2028 emphasizes support for the most marginalized children, ensuring their rights are upheld and their needs addressed.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer Child Protection and Education Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting UNICEF's initiatives in Pacaraima, particularly in the context of the ongoing migration crisis. The position involves working closely with local authorities and stakeholders to develop and implement strategies for child protection and education. The volunteer will assist in the coordination of programs aimed at unaccompanied and separated children, ensuring their rights are protected and their needs are met. This role requires a proactive approach to advocacy, capacity building, and evidence generation to enhance the effectiveness of UNICEF's interventions. The volunteer will also engage in activities that promote the integration of migrant children into the local education system, ensuring that their unique needs are addressed within the humanitarian-development nexus.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Supporting the development of Child Protection and Education sectoral program goals and strategies in Pacaraima.
• Providing technical guidance to implementing partners regarding case management for unaccompanied and separated children.
• Facilitating collaboration between implementing partners, local authorities, and stakeholders to strengthen the local system for guaranteeing children's rights.
• Assisting in the implementation of Child Protection interventions, particularly in relation to the migration response and the needs of Indigenous Peoples.
• Engaging with key stakeholders on child protection and education issues, advocating for priorities in relevant forums.
• Conducting needs assessments and generating evidence related to Child Protection and Education.
• Supporting capacity-building activities for local partners and stakeholders.
• Coordinating activities of local working groups focused on Child Protection and Education.
• Reporting on the progress of activities and identifying solutions to improve service delivery. 1
• Performing any other related tasks as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment. A demonstrated commitment to children's rights and a passion for humanitarian work are essential. The ideal candidate should have experience in child protection, education, or related fields, with a focus on vulnerable populations. Familiarity with the local context and challenges faced by migrant and refugee children is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should be adaptable, resilient, and capable of working under challenging conditions.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in social sciences, education, international development, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in child protection, education, or humanitarian response will be considered an asset.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2 years of relevant experience in child protection, education, or humanitarian assistance, preferably in a field-based role. Experience working with vulnerable populations, particularly children and adolescents, is crucial. Familiarity with the challenges faced by migrant and refugee communities will enhance the candidate's suitability for this position.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication in Brazil. Proficiency in English is also required, as it is essential for reporting and communication with international stakeholders. Knowledge of Spanish or Indigenous languages spoken in the region would be considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UN Volunteer assignment, and the volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The position is based in Pacaraima, which has limited housing options and healthcare facilities. Volunteers should be prepared for a challenging living environment, including potential security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security risks and health considerations. The role requires flexibility, cultural awareness, and a commitment to working in potentially hazardous conditions. The UN Volunteer will receive support and guidance from UNICEF and is encouraged to engage with local communities and promote volunteerism.