Professional Specialist in Methodology

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Colombia, which is dedicated to 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, focusing on reproductive health, gender equality, and youth empowerment. The organization works to strengthen the capacity of governments and civil society to implement policies and programs that promote the rights and well-being of individuals, particularly women and youth. UNFPA collaborates with various stakeholders, including national governments, local authorities, and community organizations, to enhance the effectiveness of its initiatives and ensure sustainable development outcomes.

Job Overview:
The position of Professional Specialist in Methodology is crucial for enhancing youth participation in Colombia, particularly in the context of the Youth Citizenship Statute, which establishes a legal framework for youth engagement in public policy decision-making. The specialist will lead the implementation of a comprehensive strategy aimed at strengthening the Youth Subsystem, which includes designing and facilitating methodological approaches for various participatory spaces mandated by the Youth Citizenship Statute. This role requires a deep understanding of youth dynamics, participatory methodologies, and the ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of youth engagement initiatives. The specialist will also be responsible for developing tools and protocols that facilitate youth participation and for providing technical support to various youth councils and platforms across the country.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Professional Specialist in Methodology include:

• Designing and providing methodological support for the implementation of regulated participation spaces established by the Youth Citizenship Statute, including sessions of the National Youth Council and the National Youth Platform.
• Supporting the organization and methodological design of the National Youth Assembly, which will involve the participation of 2,000 youth from across the country.
• Facilitating the development of four sessions of the National Concertation and Decision Commission.
• Managing the participation of youth in consultations for the formulation of the National Youth Action Plan for Peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security.
• Supporting the technical and methodological strengthening of the Institutional Youth Subsystem, including the development of a virtual toolkit with methodologies and content for youth actors at various administrative levels.
• Assisting in the training and certification of 500 youth in a virtual course on participation, leadership, and youth advocacy.
• Contributing to the documentation and systematization of the strengthening process of the Youth System, ensuring that lessons learned are applied to improve national youth policies and programs.
• Providing logistical and administrative support related to the fulfillment of these functions and ensuring compliance with institutional procedures and protocols.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the position include a Bachelor's degree, preferably in Social Sciences, Political Science, International Relations, Sociology, Psychology, Pedagogy, Law, or related fields. A postgraduate degree in Social Sciences, Human Rights, Pedagogy, Development, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Governance, or Public Administration is desirable. Candidates should have a minimum of six years of relevant work experience in methodological development, youth participation, pedagogy, and related fields. Experience in qualitative research, knowledge management, and working with youth and marginalized populations is essential. Strong facilitation skills and excellent written and oral communication abilities are also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess at least a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, with a preference for those who have pursued further studies such as a Master's degree in areas related to social sciences, human rights, or public administration. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in understanding youth dynamics and participatory methodologies.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of six years of relevant professional experience, particularly in areas related to methodological development, youth engagement, and pedagogical practices. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of implementing methodologies that promote youth participation and have experience working with governmental and non-governmental organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory, with a good command of English being highly desirable. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both languages, as the role may involve collaboration with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Bogota, Colombia, and may require travel to various cities and municipalities within the country, as well as potentially to international locations. Candidates should be physically capable of undertaking travel and are recommended to have a complete COVID-19 vaccination scheme. The role is full-time and involves working closely with the UNFPA's Adolescence and Youth Area, under the supervision of the Coordination of the agreement.