UN Volunteer - Research and Youth Engagement

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of children globally. With a mission to ensure that every child has the opportunity to survive, develop, and reach their full potential, UNICEF operates in 190 countries. The organization focuses on equity, emphasizing the needs of the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families. UNICEF has been active in Papua New Guinea since 1986, working closely with the government to enhance child well-being across various sectors including Child Protection, Education, Health, Nutrition, and Water and Sanitation Hygiene. The organization is committed to achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and has launched its 6th Country Programme for 2024-2028, focusing on reducing violence against children and women, strengthening social services, and enhancing resilience against disasters.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer position in Research and Youth Engagement at UNICEF Papua New Guinea is designed to provide a motivated and innovative individual with professional experience in the field of youth engagement and research. This part-time internship, lasting three months from November 2024 to January 2025, aims to expose qualified students to the day-to-day operations of the United Nations. The selected candidate will primarily assist the Communication and Health Section, contributing to the implementation of adolescent and youth research and participation programs. The role emphasizes meaningful youth engagement across UNICEF PNG's programs, facilitating adolescent participation in design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and implementation, and supporting young researchers in conducting participatory research. The intern will also be involved in developing youth-related content for social media and communications materials, thereby amplifying youth voices and experiences.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the UN Volunteer include supporting and promoting meaningful youth engagement across UNICEF PNG programs, facilitating adolescent and youth participation in programming design and implementation, rolling out and piloting the Participatory Action Research (PAR) framework, and leading the development of the Participatory Action research methodology. The intern will work with UNICEF sectoral programs and their implementing partners to identify a team of youth researchers, train them in various data collection and research methods, and support them in conducting participatory research. Additionally, the intern will coach youth researchers on presenting their findings effectively, develop youth-related content for social media, and provide logistical and administrative support for youth engagement events. Other responsibilities may include undertaking additional tasks to support program objectives on adolescent and youth programming.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates are expected to possess excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present thoughts, ideas, and technical concepts clearly and concisely. They should be self-sufficient, capable of working with minimal supervision, and able to organize and manage time effectively to achieve defined goals within deadlines. Being a team player is essential, as the role requires collaboration with various stakeholders. The ideal candidate should also demonstrate a commitment to the values and mission of UNICEF, particularly in promoting children's rights and well-being.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to be enrolled in or have recently completed a degree in a relevant field such as social sciences, public health, education, or communications. A background in research methodologies and youth engagement practices is highly desirable, as the role involves significant interaction with youth and the implementation of research initiatives.

Experience:
While specific years of experience may not be required, candidates should have some familiarity with research methodologies, youth engagement, and program implementation. Experience in working with youth or in a community development context will be considered an asset. The role is designed for students or recent graduates looking to gain practical experience in the field of international development and youth programming.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all communications and documentation will be conducted in English. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Papua New Guinea would be advantageous, as it may facilitate better engagement with local communities and youth.

Additional Notes:
This is a part-time internship position for a duration of three months, from November 2024 to January 202

• The role is intended for national candidates, and the intern will be expected to work in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. The position may involve some logistical challenges due to the local context, and candidates should be prepared for a dynamic working environment. Compensation details and benefits can be found in the UN Volunteer Conditions of Service.