UN Volunteer (UNV) for Adolescent and Youth Development

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established by the United Nations General Assembly, is dedicated to advocating for the protection of children's rights and ensuring their basic needs are met. The organization operates globally, focusing on the survival, protection, and development of children, particularly in developing countries. UNICEF mobilizes resources and political will to support countries in forming appropriate policies and delivering services for children and their families. The organization emphasizes the importance of special protection for disadvantaged children, including those affected by war, disasters, and extreme poverty. UNICEF's mission is guided by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and it aims to promote equal rights for women and girls, supporting their full participation in community development. UNICEF operates in numerous countries worldwide, working towards the sustainable human development goals and the vision of peace and social progress as outlined in the UN Charter.

Job Overview:
The UNICEF office in Timor-Leste is seeking a UN Volunteer (UNV) to support adolescent and youth development and civic engagement. This role is crucial in a country with one of the youngest populations in the world, focusing on employment opportunities, particularly in green jobs, entrepreneurship, and civic participation. The UNV will collaborate closely with the Chief of Social Policy and coordinate with other UN agencies to enhance UNICEF's support for the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Art and Culture, as well as civil society organizations (CSOs) and technical agencies. The position aims to empower adolescents and youth through various programs, including health, climate change, education, protection, and governance, in alignment with the National Child Action Plan and the National Youth Policy.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support to Programme Development and Planning: The UNV will contribute to updating the situation analysis by conducting assessments to gather evidence-based data for UNICEF's advocacy and development programs aimed at promoting adolescent and youth development. They will assist in providing operational support to ensure that cross-cutting issues such as gender, disabilities, and the rights of marginalized groups are integrated into projects and programming. The UNV will also support capacity-building initiatives for institutions and organizations focused on adolescents and youth, particularly in Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) and integrating CCA into Youth Parliament curricula. Additionally, they will participate in organizing campaigns and workshops on Climate Change and disability to engage youth, with a focus on green jobs. The UNV will promote access to digital services among adolescents and youth, leveraging digital transformation for sustainable growth.
• Programme Management, Monitoring, and Delivery of Results: The UNV will participate in monitoring and evaluation exercises, program reviews, and annual assessments with government and other counterparts to evaluate progress and report on necessary actions. They will monitor and report on the use of program resources, ensuring compliance with approved allocations and organizational rules.
• Technical and Operational Support to Programme Implementation: The UNV will conduct regular field visits to exchange information with partners, assess progress, provide technical support, and resolve issues. They will support government counterparts, NGO partners, and UN system partners on UNICEF strategies and best practices for program implementation.
• Innovation, Knowledge Management, and Capacity Building: The UNV will identify, capture, and share lessons learned to build stakeholder capacity and support knowledge development. They will apply innovative approaches and promote good practices, particularly in climate change, disability, and gender, to achieve sustainable program results. The UNV will also research and report on best practices for knowledge products and systems to contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They will prepare necessary program documentation for social media and other materials to facilitate program advocacy and approval processes.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for this position should possess strong analytical and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. They should have a solid understanding of adolescent and youth issues, particularly in the context of development and civic engagement. The candidate should also be adaptable and flexible, with a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. A strong ethical foundation and respect for diversity are essential, as is the ability to empower others and build trust within the team and with stakeholders.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a degree in social sciences, development studies, education, or a related field. A master's degree is preferred, particularly for those with a focus on youth development, social policy, or related areas. Relevant certifications or training in project management, monitoring and evaluation, or capacity building would be advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in youth development, social policy, or related fields. Experience working with UN agencies, NGOs, or government institutions in a similar context is highly desirable. Familiarity with program management, monitoring and evaluation, and capacity-building initiatives is essential. Candidates should also have experience in conducting assessments and utilizing data for program development and advocacy.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of Tetum or Portuguese is considered an asset, as it would facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Dili, East Timor. The UNICEF office is located within the UN compound, providing a safe working environment. The living conditions in Dili are generally comfortable, with various housing options available for expatriates. The role may involve field visits and collaboration with various partners, requiring flexibility and adaptability. Compensation and benefits will be in accordance with UNICEF's policies for UN Volunteers.