WHO Consultants - Updating the National Mental Health Strategy of Sudan

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO's primary goal is to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health, which includes addressing mental health issues, especially in crisis situations like the ongoing conflict in Sudan.

Job Overview:
The position involves providing technical support to the Federal Ministry of Health and WHO Sudan in updating the National Mental Health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support Strategy. The consultant will review the existing strategy document, identify gaps, and consult with various stakeholders to ensure that the updated strategy reflects current needs and priorities. The role is crucial in addressing the mental health crisis exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has led to significant humanitarian challenges and a deterioration of health services. The consultant will work closely with WHO and the Federal Ministry of Health to enhance the mental health system's capacity and effectiveness in responding to the needs of the population.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct a comprehensive review of the existing National Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Strategy, identifying key gaps and areas for improvement.
• Compile and document feedback from stakeholders, including WHO and the Federal Ministry of Health, to inform the strategy revision process.
• Organize and facilitate stakeholder consultations to gather inputs and validate the updated strategy.
• Maintain regular communication with WHO Sudan, providing progress updates and addressing any issues that arise during the assignment.
• Ensure that the updated strategy aligns with WHO guidelines and best practices in mental health and psychosocial support.

Required Qualifications:

• Proven knowledge and experience in mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS), particularly in policy and strategy development.
• Relevant experience in reviewing and updating health-related technical documents.
• Strong analytical, writing, and communication skills.
• Familiarity with WHO guidance and public health approaches to mental health is desirable.
• Knowledge of the Sudan context and health system is an asset.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor University degree (First Level University Degree) in psychology, psychiatry, public mental health, or a related field is essential for this position. This educational background provides the necessary foundation for understanding mental health issues and developing effective strategies to address them.

Experience:
A minimum of one year of relevant experience in mental health policy, strategy development, and humanitarian settings is required. Experience working with Ministries of Health, WHO, and UN agencies is also essential, as it ensures familiarity with the operational context and the challenges faced in implementing mental health initiatives in crisis situations.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language for documentation and communication within WHO and with international stakeholders. Knowledge of Arabic is highly desirable, given the local context in Sudan, and would facilitate better engagement with local partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for four months, from September to December 202

• The payment structure is milestone-based, with 50% of the payment due upon the completion of the first draft of the updated national mental health strategy and the remaining 50% upon delivery of the final approved draft. This position is critical in addressing the urgent mental health needs in Sudan and requires a dedicated and skilled consultant to lead the strategy update.