National Consultant - Development and Rollout of Youth Peer Educator (YPE)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is a leading agency in the United Nations system that focuses on reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and population issues. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization is committed to promoting gender equality and eliminating gender-based violence, while also ensuring access to life-saving reproductive health services. UNFPA's mission is to empower individuals and communities to make informed choices about their reproductive health and rights, and to support countries in achieving their development goals through comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services. UNFPA's initiatives are guided by a human rights-based approach, focusing on the needs and rights of the most vulnerable populations, including young people, women, and marginalized communities.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant will play a crucial role in the 'Towards Universal SRHR in the Indo-Pacific' (TUSIP) Project, which aims to protect young people from Child, Early, and Forced Marriage and Unions (CEFMU) while promoting Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (ASRHR). The consultant will be responsible for finalizing and rolling out comprehensive training for Youth Peer Educators (YPEs) and Adult Support Groups (ASGs). This includes developing training packages, conducting Training of Trainers (TOT), and coordinating with local government units and partner agencies to institutionalize the training modules. The consultant will also advocate for the use of the YPE Mini Booklet and ensure that the training materials align with UNFPA's standards and principles. The role requires a strong understanding of community-led initiatives and the ability to engage with various stakeholders to create a supportive environment for youth.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key responsibilities, including: conducting initial consultations with UNFPA and partners to define the workplan; refining and finalizing YPE and ASG training modules; developing a complete training package that includes facilitator guides, participant handbooks, and assessment tools; facilitating technical reviews and validation workshops; designing and implementing advocacy plans for the YPE Mini Booklet; organizing and conducting TOT for YPEs and ASGs; facilitating simulation exercises and case studies; administering assessments to measure knowledge acquisition; developing a structured post-training mentoring plan; documenting training outcomes and participant feedback; collaborating with Local Government Units (LGUs) and relevant bodies; and preparing regular progress reports for UNFPA.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in social sciences, public health, education, or related fields. They should have at least 2 years of relevant professional experience in developing training materials and facilitating workshops. Experience in community capacity building, particularly with youth programs, is essential. Candidates must demonstrate strong technical knowledge in adolescent sexual and reproductive health, gender equality, and community organizing. Proven experience in coordinating with LGUs and working with diverse stakeholders is also required. The ability to translate complex concepts into practical materials for non-technical audiences is crucial.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in social sciences, such as social work, sociology, public health, child development, development studies, education, or other related fields relevant to the assignment is required. This educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of community health and development issues, particularly those affecting youth and marginalized populations.

Experience:
The position requires at least 2 years of relevant professional experience in developing training manuals, toolkits, and community capacity building. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in designing and facilitating Training of Trainers (TOT) and participatory learning processes for diverse stakeholders, including adolescents and community volunteers. Experience in working with Local Government Units (LGUs) and knowledge of adolescent sexual and reproductive health issues are highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Filipino, both written and spoken, is mandatory. Fluency in Waray is considered an asset, as it would enhance communication with local communities and stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to commence promptly upon contract approval and will require in-person deployments to Catbalogan City for critical components such as conducting the Training of Trainers (TOT) and facilitating community mentoring sessions. The consultant will be responsible for local travel expenses within Catbalogan City, while UNFPA will cover transportation and meal expenses for participants attending in-person training. The consultancy will follow a structured payment schedule based on the acceptance of deliverables, with a total of 100% payment upon completion of all tasks. UNFPA promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from underrepresented groups.