National Consultant - Youth Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights, aiming 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, employing thousands of staff dedicated to improving the lives of women and youth globally. The organization emphasizes the importance of gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, aligning its mission with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) commitments. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 focuses on three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, fulfilling unmet needs for family planning, and eliminating gender-based violence and harmful practices. The organization is committed to addressing the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on women's and girls' access to health services, advocating for their rights and needs in humanitarian settings.

Job Overview:
The Youth Programme Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the youth team at UNFPA Afghanistan, focusing on the integration of youth initiatives within both humanitarian and basic human needs programs. This position requires a proactive individual who can assist in mobilizing and engaging youth, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met. The assistant will work under the direct supervision of the Programme Coordinator, contributing to the implementation of youth program activities, ensuring timely service delivery, and maintaining comprehensive documentation of youth programs. The role also involves supporting the communication team in promoting youth programs through various media channels, thereby enhancing visibility and engagement with the youth community. The assistant will be instrumental in liaising with youth implementing partners and stakeholders to identify gaps in services and advocate for necessary interventions, ensuring that the youth perspective is integrated into all relevant programming.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Youth Programme Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: supporting the implementation of youth program activities and ensuring timely service delivery; documenting meetings and maintaining records for youth programs; reviewing partners' concept notes and work plans to ensure youth integration; facilitating communication between UNFPA and youth implementing partners; assisting in assessments and accountability activities related to youth; supporting the development of communication materials that highlight youth programs; managing logistical arrangements for meetings, workshops, and events; monitoring procurement and recruitment processes; collaborating with the monitoring and evaluation team to track program progress; providing training for partners on reporting and data collection; engaging in technical discussions on youth-related issues; and co-leading youth networks and working groups as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree or equivalent in social science, public administration, management, or related fields. A minimum of 3 years of experience in youth programming is required, along with at least 2 years of demonstrated professional experience in project design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation in areas related to youth work, community mobilization, and reproductive health. Proficiency in computer skills, including Microsoft Office and social media platforms, is essential. Candidates should have a strong understanding of information management and data collection methods, as well as experience working with conflict-affected communities. Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills are necessary, and prior experience with UN agencies or international NGOs is an asset.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree or equivalent in social science, public administration, management, or other related social science fields is required for this position. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding the complexities of youth programming and the socio-political context in which UNFPA operates.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in youth programming, with at least 2 years of professional experience in project design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. Candidates should have experience working at both national and grassroots levels, particularly in areas related to youth development and reproductive health. Experience in conflict-affected settings is highly desirable, as is familiarity with community mobilization and social work.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNFPA. Knowledge of Dari or Pashto is considered an advantage, as it facilitates better engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultant will be based in Kabul, Afghanistan, and may be required to travel outside of Kabul as directed by the office. The consultant is responsible for providing their own laptop and other necessary working equipment, while UNFPA will provide office space. The work environment at UNFPA promotes gender equality, diversity, and a healthy work-life balance, encouraging applications from women and underrepresented groups. The selection process may involve background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements. UNFPA does not charge any fees during the application or recruitment process.