Programme Policy Officer (School Feeding Center Coordinator)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, established to save lives in emergencies and to use food assistance as a means to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of extreme weather. WFP operates globally, with a mission to ensure that no one goes hungry. The organization is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. WFP has a significant presence in numerous countries, working tirelessly to provide effective humanitarian assistance to millions of people worldwide. The organization is also a 2020 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, which underscores its commitment to humanitarian efforts and global security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. WFP invests in the personal and professional development of its employees through various training and mentorship programs, fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.

Job Overview:
The Programme Policy Officer (School Feeding Center Coordinator) will play a crucial role in supporting the nationalization of the School Feeding Programme in Tajikistan. This position is vital for enhancing the operational capacity of the School Feeding Center and ensuring effective management of the programme. The officer will work under the guidance of the Deputy Minister of Education and Science and will be responsible for providing project management, coordination, and institutional strengthening to facilitate sustainable management of the School Feeding Programme. The role involves contributing to the development of strategies and operational processes, ensuring alignment with national priorities, and supporting the transition towards a nationally owned School Feeding Programme. The officer will also monitor programme performance, engage with stakeholders, and support the development of partnerships to enhance the effectiveness of the programme.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Contribute to the development of School Feeding projects, strategies, workplans, and operational processes, ensuring alignment with wider programme policies and national priorities.
• Provide project management and operational support to School Feeding programmes, including implementation of activities under the Technical Assistance Agreement and coordination of day-to-day operations of the School Feeding Center.
• Support and monitor data collection and information management systems, ensuring quality standards are maintained.
• Research and analyze policy and operational issues affecting School Feeding programmes to support policy development and continuous improvement.
• Prepare accurate and timely reports and analytical products on programme performance.
• Liaise with internal counterparts and coordinate with the Ministry of Education and Science and other stakeholders to ensure effective collaboration.
• Support the identification and management of partnerships with government institutions and other stakeholders.
• Develop and strengthen institutional systems and procedures for sustainable programme implementation.
• Provide guidance to support staff and coordinate the work of School Feeding Center personnel. 1
• Perform other related tasks as required.

Required Qualifications:
Education: Advanced University Degree in International Development, Public Administration, Economics, Education, Agriculture, Nutrition, Social Sciences, Business Administration, Project Management, or a related field OR First University Degree with additional years of relevant experience. Experience: At least one year of progressively responsible postgraduate professional experience in programme management, project implementation, capacity strengthening, partnership management, monitoring, and reporting OR at least 3 years of relevant professional experience with a first university degree. Skills: Strong analytical, drafting, coordination, stakeholder engagement, and project management skills. Prior experience in school feeding programmes and government transition interventions is an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an Advanced University Degree in relevant fields such as International Development, Public Administration, Economics, Education, Agriculture, Nutrition, Social Sciences, Business Administration, or Project Management. Alternatively, a First University Degree with additional years of relevant experience is acceptable. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of programme management and the specific challenges associated with food security and nutrition in Tajikistan.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of progressively responsible postgraduate professional experience in areas such as programme management, project implementation, capacity strengthening, partnership management, monitoring, and reporting. Alternatively, candidates with at least three years of relevant professional experience with a first university degree will also be considered. This experience is crucial for effectively managing the School Feeding Programme and ensuring its alignment with national priorities and standards.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, along with proficiency in Tajik and/or Russian. Fluency in both Tajik and Russian is considered an advantage, as it facilitates communication and collaboration with local stakeholders and enhances the effectiveness of programme implementation.

Additional Notes:
The position is a Fixed-Term contract at the NOA level, based in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, with a duration of one year, which is extendable. The role is specifically for nationals from Tajikistan. WFP offers a competitive compensation package that includes a tax-free salary, pension, leave, and medical insurance. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and equal opportunity in its hiring practices and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.