UN Associate Volunteer

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, is the lead UN agency focused on ensuring that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, including India since 1974, with a mission to promote reproductive health and rights, and to support the health and well-being of women and youth. The organization aims to achieve three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet need for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. UNFPA works collaboratively with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and communities, to implement programs that empower individuals and improve health outcomes.

Job Overview:
The UN Associate Volunteer position is designed to support UNFPA's initiatives in Madhya Pradesh, particularly focusing on tribal adolescents and youth. The role involves establishing strategic partnerships with the Tribal Development Department to enhance life skills education and Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services in tribal schools and hostels. The volunteer will engage in mapping existing programs, identifying opportunities for resource mobilization, and developing an inter-sectoral model that integrates life skills and SRH into tribal education. This position is crucial for building sustainable partnerships that can be scaled up to benefit tribal communities, thereby contributing to the overall mission of UNFPA in promoting health and well-being among young people.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Associate Volunteer will undertake a variety of tasks under the direct supervision of the State Head of Office in Madhya Pradesh. Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting the mapping and strengthening of linkages between national Adi Yuva Fellows initiatives and state-level tribal youth programs.
• Engaging with the Tribal Development Department to develop a strategic partnership focused on adolescent life skills and SRH issues in schools and hostels in tribal areas.
• Contributing to the development of an inter-sectoral model for integrating life skills and SRH within tribal education and youth programs.
• Identifying government schemes, platforms, and resources that can be leveraged for program financing and scale-up.
• Documenting emerging opportunities, partnerships, and models for resource mobilization and replication.
• Assisting in stakeholder coordination, evidence generation, presentations, and communication materials to strengthen the partnership and scale-up agenda. This role is pivotal in establishing a sustainable Tribal Development–UNFPA partnership and creating opportunities to leverage government resources for adolescent and youth-focused interventions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the UN Associate Volunteer position should possess a strong commitment to the mission of UNFPA and demonstrate the following qualifications:

• A background in social sciences, public health, education, or a related field.
• Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesize information and present it effectively.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, in English and Hindi.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and engage with diverse stakeholders.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and a willingness to learn and adapt to new challenges.
• Cultural sensitivity and an understanding of the local context in Madhya Pradesh, particularly regarding tribal communities.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should have at least a bachelor's degree in social sciences, public health, education, or a related field. A master's degree is preferred but not mandatory. Educational qualifications should reflect a strong foundation in areas relevant to youth development, health education, or community engagement, which are critical for the successful execution of the responsibilities associated with this position.

Experience:
Candidates should ideally have some experience in community development, youth programs, or public health initiatives. While specific years of experience may not be strictly required, familiarity with working in tribal or rural settings, as well as experience in program implementation or partnership development, will be advantageous. Internships or volunteer experiences in related fields will also be considered valuable.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is used for official and business communications. Hindi is the official language and is widely spoken in Madhya Pradesh, making it essential for effective engagement with local communities and stakeholders. Knowledge of any additional regional languages would be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse groups.

Additional Notes:
This position is a national UN Volunteer assignment based in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. The UN Volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The role is full-time and may require occasional travel to tribal and other districts of Madhya Pradesh, depending on program needs and stakeholder engagement. The monthly voluntary living allowance (VLA) is INR 56,126.74, with additional benefits including a one-time entry lump sum payment, relocation costs, exit allowance, comprehensive insurance coverage, and access to learning and career development resources. The UN Volunteer is expected to be culturally sensitive and adapt to the local culture and traditions.