Consultant for Training on Non-Communicable Diseases and Cancer Detection

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With over 7,000 employees in more than 150 countries, WHO works in various areas including disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and emergency response. The organization operates in numerous countries, focusing on improving health outcomes and addressing public health challenges globally.

Job Overview:
The consultancy aims to train male doctors and healthcare workers in Afghanistan on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and the early detection and referral of common cancers. Given the rising concern of NCDs in Afghanistan, particularly breast and cervical cancers, this role is crucial in enhancing the capacity of healthcare providers. The consultant will design and deliver two six-day training programs, focusing on building knowledge and skills in NCD prevention and control, with a specific emphasis on cancer detection. The training will involve a hybrid approach, combining remote work with in-person sessions in Kabul, ensuring that healthcare workers are equipped to recognize early signs of cancer and provide appropriate referrals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for conducting a rapid needs assessment to tailor the training content, designing a comprehensive training curriculum, and developing training materials. The consultant will facilitate two six-day in-person training workshops for male doctors and nurses, focusing on NCDs and cancer. Responsibilities include conducting pre- and post-training assessments to evaluate knowledge improvement, providing a final report with recommendations for future capacity-building initiatives, and ensuring that the training aligns with the needs of the healthcare providers in Afghanistan. The consultant will also be expected to review lessons learned from the training sessions and make necessary adjustments to the training materials.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in public health or medicine. Essential qualifications include 5 to 10 years of experience in NCD management and treatment, cancer control, or health education. Demonstrated expertise in designing and delivering training programs for healthcare providers, particularly in fragile or low-resource settings, is required. International experience is a must for this consultancy, and knowledge of the Afghan health system and cultural context is considered an asset. Strong facilitation, communication, and report-writing skills are also necessary.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in public health or medicine is required for this position. Candidates should have a solid understanding of public health principles, particularly in relation to non-communicable diseases and cancer care. Additional certifications or training in health education or training methodologies would be advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have between 5 to 10 years of relevant experience in the management and treatment of non-communicable diseases and cancer control. Experience in designing and delivering training programs for healthcare providers is essential, especially in contexts similar to Afghanistan. Candidates should also have a proven track record of working in international settings and adapting training materials to meet local needs.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all training materials and sessions will be conducted in English. Knowledge of local languages such as Dari or Pashto would be advantageous but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is part-time and spans 8 months, with a total of 30 working days or 240 hours expected. The consultant will work remotely for most of the assignment but will need to travel to Kabul twice for two weeks to facilitate the training sessions. The WHO will cover travel arrangements and provide a subsistence allowance during the consultant's missions. Candidates must also provide a medical certificate of fitness for work and fulfill visa requirements for travel to Afghanistan. The position is open to international candidates, and WHO encourages applications from diverse backgrounds.