Programme Specialist, Adolescents and Youth Development

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights, with a mission to ensure 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 and territories, working to improve the lives of women and young people through various programs and initiatives. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) agenda, particularly in the areas of maternal health, family planning, and gender equality. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes the importance of addressing the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on women's and girls' access to health services and reproductive rights, aiming to build a better future for all individuals, especially the most vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist, Adolescents and Youth Development will oversee the formulation and evaluation of projects aimed at improving the lives of adolescents and youth in Ghana. This role involves leading a dedicated team focused on youth development, collaborating with various stakeholders, including government entities, NGOs, and civil society organizations. The specialist will ensure that UNFPA's initiatives align with national development frameworks and contribute to the overarching goals of reducing maternal deaths, addressing unmet family planning needs, and combating gender-based violence. The position requires a strategic approach to program management, emphasizing the importance of integrating youth issues into national policies and development agendas. The specialist will also be responsible for fostering partnerships, mobilizing resources, and advocating for the rights and needs of young people in Ghana, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met within the broader context of national development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Providing management and technical leadership support by analyzing the political, social, and economic environment relevant to adolescents and youth development, identifying opportunities for UNFPA assistance.
• Engaging in policy dialogue with government and development partners to incorporate youth issues into national policies and strategies.
• Promoting awareness of the ICPD Programme of Action in high-level meetings and conferences.
• Conducting in-depth analyses of trends and risks affecting adolescents and youth, translating findings into actionable policy recommendations.
• Representing UNFPA in technical forums and providing guidance on gender equality and women's rights.
• Actively seeking and maintaining strategic partnerships for technical collaboration and resource mobilization.
• Leading the formulation of gender-responsive, rights-based programs for adolescents and youth in line with government priorities.
• Conducting results-based monitoring and reporting of youth projects, ensuring timely submission of reports to stakeholders.
• Contributing to capacity development activities for UNFPA staff and implementing partners. 1
• Carrying out any other duties as required by UNFPA leadership.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in Development Studies, Political Science, Sociology, Gender Studies, or a related social science discipline. Additionally, they should have at least five years of progressively responsible professional experience at the advisory or managerial level in managing adolescents and youth programs. Demonstrable technical expertise in youth development, experience in coordinating teams, and the ability to communicate complex issues clearly to diverse audiences are essential. Candidates should also have a proven track record of networking within the development sector and liaising with government counterparts, NGOs, and other stakeholders. Strong interpersonal, negotiating, and intercultural communication skills are required, along with the ability to work independently and in culturally diverse teams. Familiarity with Microsoft Office software and web-based management systems is also necessary.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in Development Studies, Political Science, Sociology, Gender Studies, or a related social science discipline is required for this position. This educational background provides the necessary theoretical framework and analytical skills needed to address the complex issues surrounding adolescents and youth development.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of increasingly responsible professional experience at the advisory or managerial level in managing adolescents and youth programs. This experience should include demonstrable technical expertise in the field, as well as proven experience in coordinating and managing teams of staff, experts, and consultants. Familiarity with the UN system and field experience are considered assets.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other official UN languages is desirable, as it can enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits as applicable. The role is full-time and involves working within a complex and dynamic environment, requiring a commitment to the mission and values of UNFPA. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process, and candidates are encouraged to report any fraudulent notices or offers.