International Consultant in Midwifery Education

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency focused on sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to ensure that every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, particularly in the areas of family planning, maternal health, gender-based violence, and demographic change. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2026-2029 outlines its response to global challenges and aims to strengthen health systems and improve the quality of care through evidence-based policies and practices. In Kazakhstan, UNFPA has been actively involved in improving maternal health and reducing maternal mortality rates, which have seen significant progress over the past two decades, although challenges remain in the quality of care and clinical competencies of health workers.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant in Midwifery Education involves developing evidence-based recommendations to enhance sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) competencies within the national midwifery competency model in Kazakhstan. The consultant will work under the supervision of the UNFPA SRH National Programme Analyst and will be responsible for leading the methodological approach, developing the assessment framework, and designing a competency-based curriculum structure that aligns with international standards. This role is crucial in addressing the gaps identified in the midwifery education system, particularly in competency-based education and practical skills training. The consultant will engage in stakeholder consultations and validation processes to ensure that the recommendations are relevant and effective in improving the quality of SRH services in Kazakhstan. The consultancy is expected to be carried out over a period of approximately four months, from May to August 2026, on a part-time, home-based basis, with a focus on collaborative work with national stakeholders and UNFPA.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The International Consultant will undertake several key responsibilities, including:

• Conducting a comprehensive analysis of the current midwifery education system in Kazakhstan, identifying strengths and weaknesses.
• Developing a SRHR competency framework tailored for midwifery education that aligns with international standards set by WHO and ICM.
• Designing a high-level curriculum structure for midwifery education that incorporates evidence-based practices and competencies.
• Leading stakeholder consultations to present findings and validate the developed frameworks and curriculum structure.
• Developing the analytical framework and methodology for the assessment, including defining key domains, indicators, and tools for evaluation.
• Ensuring the alignment of the competency framework with international standards and best practices.
• Providing technical guidance throughout the analysis and ensuring the quality and consistency of outputs.
• Participating in a one-day technical meeting organized by UNFPA to present key outputs and facilitate discussions with stakeholders.
• Submitting all deliverables in electronic format for review and validation by UNFPA.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or higher) in midwifery, nursing, medicine, public health, or a related field. Additional specialization or training in medical education, particularly in midwifery and nursing, curriculum development, or competency-based education is considered an asset. The consultant should have a minimum of 15 years of professional experience in midwifery or nursing education, with proven experience in curriculum development and competency-based education. Familiarity with international standards, such as those set by WHO and ICM, is essential. Previous experience working with UN agencies or international organizations in midwifery care is advantageous. The consultant should also have a strong understanding of competency-based education approaches and experience in developing competency frameworks and curriculum structures.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s or higher) in fields related to midwifery, nursing, medicine, public health, or similar disciplines. Additional qualifications in medical education, particularly with a focus on midwifery and nursing, curriculum development, or competency-based education, are highly desirable and will enhance the candidate's suitability for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a substantial level of experience, specifically a minimum of 15 years in the field of midwifery or nursing education. Candidates should have a proven track record in curriculum development and competency-based education, demonstrating their ability to align educational practices with international standards. Experience working with UN agencies or international organizations in the context of midwifery care will be considered a significant advantage, as will familiarity with competency-based education approaches and the development of competency frameworks.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the UNFPA and for documentation purposes. Proficiency in Russian is also required, given the local context of Kazakhstan and the need for effective communication with national stakeholders. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to be conducted remotely, with a part-time commitment over approximately four months, from May to August 202

• The assignment will be implemented in phases, with specific deliverables due at the end of each phase. The consultant will be required to participate in one in-country or virtual technical meeting as part of the validation process. All deliverables must be submitted in electronic format for review and validation by UNFPA. The organization promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from individuals of various backgrounds, including women, LGBTQIA+ community members, and persons with disabilities. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application process.