Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, with a mission to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization emphasizes the importance of universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights, particularly for women, adolescents, and marginalized populations. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2026-2029 aims to achieve the goals of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) by 2030, focusing on key outcomes such as family planning, maternal health, and gender-based violence prevention. UNFPA's work in South Africa has transitioned from fund management to an engagement and solution center, reflecting its commitment to sustainable development and evidence-based advocacy.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant position is integral to the Programmes Unit at UNFPA's Country Office in Pretoria. This role provides essential administrative and operational support for the design and implementation of the country programme. The Programme Assistant will assist in various functions, including programme design, implementation, research, and data analysis. The position requires collaboration with officers in the programmes unit and involves maintaining accurate partner and project files, preparing reports, and facilitating communication with stakeholders. The Programme Assistant will also be responsible for logistical arrangements for workshops and meetings, ensuring that the programmes team can focus on strategic programme delivery. This role is crucial for the smooth functioning of the programmes team and contributes to the overall effectiveness of UNFPA's mission in South Africa.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant has a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, which include: A. Supporting the Programmes Team in the Country Office: Assisting in the preparation of programme work plans, budgets, and proposals; performing data entry and updates in the UNFPA Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system; monitoring programme activities and expenditures; collecting and analyzing programme data for reporting; preparing draft reports and presentations; coordinating logistical arrangements for programme activities; maintaining accurate programme files; facilitating communication with partners and stakeholders; and providing logistical support for events. B. Research and Knowledge Management Sharing Support: Performing research assistance duties, summarizing information for reports and publications, maintaining electronic mailing lists, and contributing to the UNFPA intranet. C. Programme Operational Support: Undertaking administrative arrangements for workshops and meetings, maintaining inventory of programme assets, reviewing correspondence, supporting procurement activities, processing financial transactions, and producing financial reports. D. General Support: Standing in for other Programme team members as needed and carrying out additional duties as required by UNFPA leadership.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires completed Secondary Level (High School) Education as a minimum. A first-level university degree in a field related to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), project/programme management, public health, or relevant social sciences is desirable. Candidates should possess strong interpersonal and organizational skills, computer literacy (including proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint), and good writing and communication skills. Experience in development project/programme management in various organizational settings is also essential, with previous experience in the UN system considered an advantage.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have completed Secondary Level (High School) Education. A first-level university degree in an SRHR-related field, project/programme management, public health, or a relevant social science discipline is desirable. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of the programmes and the context in which UNFPA operates.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant experience in sexual and reproductive health and rights or related fields. Experience in development project/programme management within private, community-based organizations, NGOs, or international organizations is desirable. Previous experience within the UN system is an advantage, as it provides familiarity with UNFPA's operational procedures and standards.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this position. Additionally, professional working knowledge of one or more official South African languages is considered an advantage. A working knowledge of another UN Official Language is also an asset, enhancing communication capabilities within the diverse environment of UNFPA.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages women and individuals from underrepresented groups, including the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, and persons with disabilities, to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA is committed to equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates, regardless of personal characteristics.