UN Volunteer Programme Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations agency for children (UNICEF) is a prominent humanitarian and development organization that has been operational for nearly 70 years. Its mission is to advocate for the rights of every child, ensuring they have access to safe shelter, nutrition, health care, education, and protection from disasters and conflicts. UNICEF operates globally, working with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and community leaders, to improve the lives of children and their families. The organization emphasizes the importance of a global presence to monitor and produce results that positively impact children's rights, particularly for the most disadvantaged populations.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer Programme Officer will play a crucial role in supporting UNICEF's initiatives in the Nuba Mountains area of South Kordofan and parts of the Blue Nile in Sudan. This position is vital in addressing the complex humanitarian challenges faced in these regions, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict that has exacerbated vulnerabilities among the local population. The Programme Officer will be responsible for knowledge management, programme monitoring and evaluation, and ensuring that child rights-based approaches are integrated into all programming efforts. The role requires collaboration with local stakeholders and partners to enhance capacity building and sustainability of programmes aimed at improving health, nutrition, education, and child protection. The Programme Officer will also engage in advocacy efforts to promote children's rights at community and family levels, ensuring that the voices of the most vulnerable are heard in national and international policy discussions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the UN Volunteer Programme Officer include:

• Knowledge Management for Programmes: Strengthening area/country programmes through effective data collection, analysis, and reporting, while participating in the Programme Knowledge Network.
• Programme Monitoring and Evaluations: Conducting field visits to monitor programme implementation, assessing progress, and recommending corrective actions as necessary.
• Rights-Based and Results-Based Programme Management: Ensuring quality in child rights-based programmes through effective planning, design, implementation, and evaluation.
• National and Local Capacity Building/Sustainability: Providing technical support to local stakeholders for training programmes aimed at enhancing capacity and sustainability.
• Rights Perspective and Advocacy: Conducting policy analysis and advocacy from a children's and women's rights perspective at community and family levels.
• Partnership, Coordination and Collaboration: Developing partnerships with internal and external counterparts to improve data collection and dissemination, and coordinating financial and supply management requirements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to teamwork and respect for diversity. They should possess excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to work in a multi-cultural environment, and a commitment to gender equality. The role requires strong organizational and problem-solving skills, effective communication abilities, and flexibility to adapt to challenging living conditions. Candidates should also exhibit a genuine commitment to the principles of voluntary engagement and the mission of UNICEF.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position, typically requiring a degree in social sciences, international development, public health, or a related field. Advanced degrees may be preferred, depending on the specific requirements of the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2-3 years of professional experience in programme management, monitoring and evaluation, or related fields, preferably within a humanitarian or development context. Experience working in challenging environments, particularly in conflict-affected areas, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both spoken and written. Knowledge of Arabic or other local languages would be considered an asset, enhancing communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a UN Volunteer role, which may involve a commitment to work in challenging and potentially hazardous living conditions. The duty station is characterized by limited access to basic services, including healthcare, electricity, and internet connectivity. Candidates should be prepared for a cash-based economy and the physical hardships associated with living in remote areas. The role may require travel within the operational area and adaptability to changing circumstances.