Programme Associate

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established by the United Nations General Assembly, is dedicated to advocating for the protection of children's rights, meeting their basic needs, and expanding their opportunities to reach their full potential. The organization operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on various programs aimed at improving the lives of children and families. UNICEF's mission is to ensure that every child has the right to survive, thrive, and fulfill their potential, which is fundamental to achieving sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Programme Associate position within the Social and Behavior Change (SBC) team at UNICEF Uganda Country Office (UCO) in Kampala is crucial for advancing SBC response and programming in Uganda. The role involves close collaboration with various staff members, external partners, and agency counterparts to support design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and delivery. The Programme Associate is responsible for providing both technical and operational support to supervisors and internal colleagues, ensuring that a variety of tasks are executed efficiently to meet deadlines and accountabilities. This position requires a proactive approach to monitoring project milestones and advising on necessary improvements to keep activities on track, thereby contributing significantly to the overall success of UNICEF's initiatives in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Associate will undertake a range of duties, including facilitating the development of Programme Cooperation Agreements (PCAs) by providing necessary information and drafting relevant sections. They will ensure the timely and accurate processing of Government and NGO proposals and requests for direct cash transfers (DCTs). Regular monitoring of budgets and financial expenditures will be essential, employing applicable tools to ensure compliance with UNICEF's rules and regulations. The Programme Associate will carry out transactions in VISION, ensuring that SBC results, activities, and program coding align with annual work plans (AWPs) and making necessary amendments as required. They will also monitor and track the procurement and distribution of SBC supplies essential for effective program delivery. Collaboration with internal and external partners to provide operational and technical support for SBC strategies and research will be a key responsibility. Additionally, the Programme Associate will support the SBC section in researching, compiling, and analyzing qualitative and quantitative data relevant to the section's work, facilitating program delivery and report preparation. They will prepare monitoring and reporting information for supervisors and the team on agreed performance indicators, assist in budget planning and management, and help prepare financial reports for the country office and donors. The role also includes supporting capacity-building initiatives to enhance SBC competencies among stakeholders and partners across program sectors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Programme Associate position should possess a strong understanding of operations relevant to UNICEF's technical capabilities, demonstrating discretion, political sensitivity, and the ability to liaise with various actors, particularly in senior positions. A high degree of autonomy, personal initiative, and resourcefulness are essential, along with the ability to manage information objectively and confidentially. The ideal candidate should exhibit professionalism, integrity, teamwork, and respect for diversity, with excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to establish effective partnerships in a multicultural environment. A commitment to continuous learning and adaptability to changes in the work environment is also crucial.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Programme Associate position typically includes a degree in social sciences, public health, international development, or a related field. Advanced degrees may be preferred, depending on the specific requirements of the role and the level of responsibility involved. Candidates should have a solid understanding of UNICEF's mission and values, as well as the principles of voluntary engagement and solidarity.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in program support, project management, or a related field. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of child rights and development, is highly desirable. Familiarity with financial management, budgeting, and reporting processes is also important, as well as experience in monitoring and evaluation of programs.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language of UNICEF. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Uganda would be considered an asset, enhancing communication with local partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UN Volunteer assignment, which means that the selected candidate will be responsible for arranging their own housing and other living essentials. The position is based in Kampala, Uganda's national and commercial capital, which offers adequate medical and banking facilities, as well as a variety of food options. The role may involve travel within the area of operations, and the candidate should be prepared to adapt to potentially challenging living conditions.