UN Volunteer - Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

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Position Title: UN Volunteer - Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
Location: Yambio
Country: South Sudan
Deadline Date: 15 March 2024

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) was established to support the peace process in South Sudan and to protect civilians. The mission operates under the mandate of the United Nations security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council and aims to promote peace and security in the region. UNMISS is committed to advancing its strategic vision to prevent a return to civil war, build durable peace, and support inclusive governance. The mission has a significant presence in South Sudan, with a ceiling of 17,000 uniformed personnel and over 2,100 police officers, including corrections officers. The organization emphasizes the importance of humanitarian assistance and the protection of human rights in its operations.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer will play a crucial role in promoting and maintaining the health and well-being of UNMISS personnel through integrated healthcare services. This position involves planning and organizing health promotion activities, disease prevention initiatives, and awareness campaigns related to communicable and non-communicable diseases, particularly focusing on HIV/AIDS. The volunteer will work closely with the Chief of the Infectious Diseases and Public Health Unit and the Policy Advisor to implement health programs in Western Equatoria State, specifically in Yambio. The role requires a proactive approach to health education and the ability to engage with diverse groups within the UNMISS community.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer will be responsible for a variety of tasks including: planning and organizing health promotion and disease prevention activities; conducting inductions and sensitization sessions for newly recruited mission personnel; facilitating training programs related to HIV/AIDS and health promotion; organizing health campaigns to encourage lifestyle modifications and early detection of chronic diseases; participating in a weekly health education program on Radio Miraya; providing voluntary confidential counseling and testing services for HIV and other diseases; administering post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) according to UN protocols; enhancing partnerships with local health authorities and other UN agencies; promoting positive behavior change in health strategies; and performing any additional duties as assigned by the Chief IDPH Unit or Policy Advisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment. A background in public health, health promotion, or a related field is essential. The ideal candidate should demonstrate a commitment to health education and disease prevention, with experience in organizing training and awareness programs. Familiarity with HIV/AIDS issues and health promotion strategies is highly desirable. The ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including government health authorities and UN agencies, is crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A degree in public health, health education, nursing, or a related field is required. Additional certifications or training in HIV/AIDS prevention and health promotion will be considered an asset. Candidates should have a solid understanding of health issues affecting the population in South Sudan and be familiar with the UN's health protocols and guidelines.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2-3 years of relevant experience in public health, health promotion, or a similar field. Experience working in a humanitarian or international development context, particularly in health-related roles, is highly advantageous. Familiarity with the health challenges faced in South Sudan and experience in community engagement and training are also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of local languages spoken in South Sudan, such as Arabic or any indigenous languages, would be considered an asset and beneficial for effective communication with local communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a volunteer role under the UN system, and it is expected to last until the end of the UNMISS mandate on 15 March 202

• The role is full-time and based in Yambio, South Sudan. The UN Volunteer will receive a monthly stipend to cover living expenses, and there may be opportunities for professional development and training during the assignment. The position requires a commitment to the UN's values and principles, including respect for diversity and a focus on results.