Local Consultancy Technical Assistance for the Department of Basic Education (DBE)

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, is the lead UN agency focused on delivering a world where 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 has a mission to ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, promote gender equality, and empower women and girls. The organization is committed to achieving transformative results in the areas of maternal health, family planning, and the elimination of gender-based violence, aligning its strategic plan with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD). UNFPA emphasizes the importance of principled and ethical staff who embody international norms and standards, advocating for human rights and delivering high-impact results.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position aims to provide technical assistance to the Department of Basic Education (DBE) in South Africa for the revision of protocols concerning the management and reporting of sexual abuse and harassment in schools. This role is crucial in updating the existing protocols developed in 2018, which serve as standard operating procedures for schools, districts, and provinces in addressing allegations of sexual abuse and harassment. The consultant will work closely with various stakeholders, including government departments, civil society organizations, and educational institutions, to ensure that the revised protocols are comprehensive, effective, and aligned with current best practices. The consultant will also be responsible for facilitating consultations, gathering input from key stakeholders, and synthesizing this information into a final document that reflects the collective insights and recommendations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key activities, including:

• Gathering and consolidating written input from various stakeholders, including Director-Generals from relevant government departments and Chief Executive Officers from educational and human rights organizations.
• Making presentations to District Directors and consolidating feedback from internal Basic Education structures to finalize the document.
• Leading facilitation and presentations during national stakeholder consultations, engaging with government departments, civil society organizations, unions, and academic institutions to gather comprehensive input.
• Developing a detailed one-day program for consultative workshops with provincial and district officials, focusing on practical applications of the protocol through case studies and flow charts.
• Submitting a final protocol that includes flow charts, an implementation guide, and relevant forms, ensuring all deliverables are presented in an agreed format with Basic Education, UNESCO, and UNFPA.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (Master’s or higher) in Public Health, Social and Behavioural Sciences, Development Studies, or a related field, with a focus on adolescent and youth health. A PhD is considered an added advantage. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in program evaluation, public health strategy, youth development, or related fields is required. Proven experience in conducting multi-stakeholder assessments, particularly in HIV, STI, TB prevention, and youth-focused programs, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate a strong track record in participatory research methods, particularly with adolescents and young people, and have a solid understanding of South Africa’s public health policy landscape and relevant youth-focused initiatives. Proficiency in qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis, along with excellent report writing and presentation skills, is necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced degree (Master’s or higher) in relevant fields such as Public Health, Social and Behavioural Sciences, or Development Studies, with a specific focus on adolescent and youth health. A PhD is advantageous, indicating a higher level of expertise and research capability in the field.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in areas such as program evaluation, public health strategy, and youth development. Experience in conducting assessments at national or provincial levels, particularly in relation to HIV, STI, and TB prevention, is crucial. The consultant should also have a strong background in participatory research methods and a proven ability to engage with diverse youth populations.

Languages:
Proficiency in official South African languages is required, enabling meaningful engagement with diverse youth populations. While specific language requirements are not detailed, familiarity with multiple languages spoken in South Africa is beneficial for effective communication and outreach.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based, with the possibility of travel to implementation sites. The duration of the assignment is from June 1, 2025, to August 4, 202

• UNFPA promotes a work environment that values gender equality, diversity, and integrity, encouraging applications from women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, and persons with disabilities. The organization emphasizes equal opportunities in recruitment and selection processes, ensuring a diverse and inclusive workforce.