Programme Specialist, Adolescents and Youth

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is a leading UN agency that focuses on reproductive health and rights, population dynamics, and gender equality. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization emphasizes the importance of youth engagement and participation in its programs, particularly in the context of the Arab region, which has a significant youth demographic. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 aims to achieve transformative results in maternal health, family planning, and the elimination of gender-based violence. With a workforce that embodies international norms and standards, UNFPA seeks to inspire high-impact results through principled and ethical staff.

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist for Adolescents and Youth at UNFPA's Arab States Regional Office (ASRO) plays a crucial role in leading the implementation of regional programs focused on youth health and well-being, including sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), and youth participation in peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security initiatives. This position requires a deep understanding of the challenges faced by adolescents and youth in the Arab region, where a significant portion of the population is under 20 years old. The Specialist will work closely with the Adolescents and Youth Regional Advisor and the Deputy Regional Director to ensure that the programs align with the ICPD+30 agenda and the UNFPA Global Strategy on Adolescents and Youth. The role involves developing and monitoring regional work plans, fostering partnerships with various stakeholders, and leading knowledge management efforts to support youth programming.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Specialist will be responsible for several key areas:

• Programme Development, Implementation, and Knowledge Management: Leading the creation and dissemination of knowledge on adolescent and youth trends, developing regional work plans, and ensuring timely implementation of youth program deliverables.
• Capacity Building, Coordination, and Partnerships: Assessing capacity gaps for youth focal points, providing technical assistance, fostering partnerships with stakeholders, and representing UNFPA in relevant working groups.
• Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting: Collecting information for monitoring youth program activities, reviewing budgets, supporting evaluations, and documenting findings and best practices. The Specialist will also carry out any other duties as requested by the Adolescents and Youth Advisor or Deputy Regional Director.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in development studies, youth work, public health, social work, anthropology, political science, sociology, international affairs, or related social science fields. They should have at least five years of professional experience in development and population activities, with a strong track record in program/project management. Experience in adolescent and youth programs, particularly in the Arab region, is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to youth participation, possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and be ICT literate. Prior experience with UN/UNFPA is also desirable.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in relevant fields such as development studies, public health, or social sciences is required for this position. This educational background is essential to understand the complexities of youth issues and to effectively contribute to program development and implementation.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of professional experience in development and population activities, with a focus on program/project management. Field experience, particularly in the Arab region and with adolescent and youth programs, is a strong asset. Candidates should have a proven ability to produce demonstrable results and engage in high-level policy dialogue.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory. A good working knowledge of Arabic and/or French is desirable, as it will facilitate communication and collaboration with regional stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that values gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, and persons with disabilities. The organization is committed to ensuring gender parity and equal opportunities for all candidates.