Individual Consultant – Development of Direct Entry BSc-Midwifery Curriculum

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the UNFPA Sierra Leone Country Office, which is part of the United Nations Population Fund. UNFPA's mission is to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization focuses on reproductive health, gender equality, and population issues. UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has been active in Sierra Leone for many years, working to improve maternal and child health outcomes in the country. The organization collaborates with various stakeholders, including government ministries, to enhance healthcare systems and education.

Job Overview:
The consultancy aims to develop a high-quality, competency-based Bachelor of Science in Midwifery curriculum tailored for Sierra Leone. This initiative is crucial due to the high maternal and newborn mortality rates in the country, which can be significantly reduced through effective midwifery education. The consultant will lead the development, contextualization, and validation of the curriculum, ensuring it aligns with international standards and national regulatory requirements. The role involves conducting a situational analysis of existing midwifery education programs, reviewing national policies, and facilitating stakeholder consultations. The final curriculum will be structured to meet the needs of the healthcare system and will incorporate innovative teaching and assessment methods to prepare midwives for real-world challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key tasks throughout the consultancy. In Phase 1, they will conduct a national needs analysis and engage stakeholders to identify gaps in current midwifery education. This includes reviewing existing curricula and health policies. In Phase 2, the consultant will design the curriculum framework, defining the program's vision and mission, and establishing clear learning outcomes. They will create a three-year curriculum structure that balances theory and practical experience. In Phase 3, the consultant will develop detailed module descriptors and assessment frameworks, ensuring that the curriculum is comprehensive and aligned with international standards. The consultant will also be responsible for drafting various documents, including the inception report, curriculum blueprint, and final validated curriculum package.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in Midwifery, Maternal Health, Nursing Education, or a related field. They should have at least ten years of experience in midwifery education and curriculum development, with a strong background in competency-based education. Familiarity with the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) Global Standards and demonstrated experience in developing health professional education programs are essential. The consultant should also have excellent facilitation and communication skills, with experience working with UN agencies and health ministries.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, either a Master's or a Ph.D., in fields related to Midwifery, Maternal Health, Nursing Education, or other relevant health or education sciences. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of midwifery education and the necessary competencies required for effective practice in the field.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of experience in midwifery education and curriculum development is required. Candidates should have a proven track record of developing competency-based health professional education programs and a deep understanding of the ICM Global Standards and Competency guidelines. Experience in collaborating with UN agencies and health ministries is also highly valued, as it demonstrates the ability to navigate the complexities of healthcare systems and educational frameworks.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for effective collaboration with various stakeholders. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages may be beneficial but is not specified as a requirement.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to be completed within 45 working days over a period of approximately three months. The consultant will work remotely and may need to travel to Sierra Leone for stakeholder consultations and validation workshops. Payments will be output-based, disbursed upon satisfactory completion of deliverables. The consultant must adhere to confidentiality and ethical guidelines throughout the assessment process and is expected to use their own equipment and workspace for the assignment.