National Consultancy for Development of the National Strategic Plan on Child Health (2026-2032), Incorporating Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF)
Organizational Context
UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential, from early childhood through adolescence. We are committed, passionate, and proud of what we do for as long as we are needed. Promoting the rights of every child is not just a job – it is a calling.
Job Purpose
The purpose of this consultancy is to provide time-bound technical and facilitation support to the Family Health Bureau in Sri Lanka. The consultant will be responsible for developing a comprehensive, evidence-informed, and nationally owned National Strategic Plan on Child Health (NSPCH) for the period 2026–2032. This plan must effectively incorporate Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) strategies. The development process will be informed by the findings of a preceding end-term review and will involve structured, multisectoral stakeholder engagement to ensure broad ownership and relevance. The ultimate goal is to enhance child health outcomes through a well-defined and actionable strategic framework.
Responsibilities
Provide technical and facilitation support to the Family Health Bureau for the development of the NSPCH 2026–2032, incorporating IYCF. Conduct a thorough review of the preceding end-term review findings to inform the new strategic plan. Design and implement a structured multisectoral stakeholder engagement process, including consultations with relevant government bodies, professional institutions, development partners, and civil society. Synthesize complex evidence from various sources to inform the strategic direction and interventions. Draft the NSPCH 2026–2032, ensuring it is comprehensive, evidence-informed, and nationally owned. Develop clear objectives, strategies, and actionable plans for child health and IYCF. Produce high-quality strategic planning and policy documents, including the final NSPCH. Facilitate high-level meetings and consultations to ensure buy-in and consensus among stakeholders. Ensure the plan aligns with national health priorities and global child health goals. Provide recommendations for monitoring and evaluation frameworks for the strategic plan. Coordinate with relevant UNICEF sections and government counterparts throughout the consultancy.
Work Experience
At least 10 years of experience in health policy, strategic planning, programme management, monitoring and evaluation, or comparable assignments. Demonstrated experience developing national strategies or action plans, preferably in child health, early child care development, maternal and child nutrition, or IYCF.
Skills
Health policy development, Strategic planning, Programme management, Monitoring and evaluation, National strategy development, Child health, Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF), Multisectoral stakeholder engagement, Evidence synthesis, Policy document production, Facilitation, Analytical skills