RCCE Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, the United Nations Children's Fund, is dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of every child globally. Established in 1946, UNICEF operates in 190 countries and territories, focusing on the most vulnerable and excluded children. The organization emphasizes early childhood development and adolescence, advocating for measures that ensure children receive proper care, education, and health services. UNICEF's mission includes immunizing children against diseases, promoting girls' education, and supporting families affected by HIV/AIDS. The organization aims to overcome obstacles such as poverty, violence, and discrimination that hinder children's development and well-being.

Job Overview:
The RCCE Specialist will play a crucial role in enhancing Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) strategies in Nepal, particularly in the post-COVID-19 context. This position involves supporting the Government of Nepal in promoting protective behaviors, disseminating accurate information, and addressing misinformation. The specialist will work closely with the National Health Education, Information and Communication Center (NHEICC) to reactivate the Crisis Media Hub and strengthen coordinated RCCE systems. The role requires a focus on community engagement, social listening, and evidence-based communication to tackle priority behavioral challenges in Nepal, such as low service uptake and misinformation. The specialist will be responsible for developing multimedia content, coordinating RCCE efforts, and engaging with various stakeholders to ensure effective communication during health emergencies and routine health programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The RCCE Specialist will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Establishing a social listening system to monitor media and public concerns.
• Producing media narrative reports and providing communication recommendations.
• Leading the development of multimedia communication materials, ensuring they are accurate and culturally appropriate.
• Supporting RCCE coordination meetings and maintaining partner mapping.
• Facilitating inter-ministerial coordination for RCCE during health emergencies.
• Contributing to the development of national RCCE strategies and health promotion strategies.
• Establishing a centralized RCCE content repository for rapid deployment of communication materials.
• Engaging with media and private sector partners to disseminate public health messages.
• Strengthening community engagement mechanisms and ensuring inclusive communication. 1
• Mapping and engaging social influencers to amplify health messages. 1
• Supporting capacity building for health workers and journalists on RCCE and risk communication.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong strategic thinking and stakeholder engagement skills, along with creativity and adaptability in crisis situations. The role requires excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, and the ability to work collaboratively within a team. A deep understanding of public health communication and community engagement strategies is essential, as well as experience in media relations and content development. The candidate should demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and accountability in all aspects of their work.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in public health, communications, social sciences, or a related field is required. A master's degree in a relevant discipline is preferred and may enhance the candidate's qualifications for this role. Additional training or certifications in risk communication, community engagement, or public health is advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3-5 years of professional experience in public health communication, community engagement, or a related field. Experience working with government agencies, NGOs, or international organizations in a similar capacity is highly desirable. Familiarity with the health landscape in Nepal and previous involvement in emergency response or health promotion initiatives will be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both spoken and written. Proficiency in Nepali or other local languages is highly desirable, as it will facilitate effective communication with diverse communities and stakeholders. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UN Volunteer assignment, and the volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The position is part of the malicious insurance plan provided for national UN Volunteers. The role may involve full-time commitment, and the duration of the contract is not specified in the job description. The specialist is expected to engage with local communities and promote volunteerism as part of their responsibilities.