Spécialiste développement de la Petite Enfance

Organizational Context

UNICEF's core mission is to advocate for the rights of every child, everywhere, focusing on equity for the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families. Investing in the health, education, and protection of vulnerable populations promotes sustainable growth and social cohesion. In Tunisia, UNICEF's 2021-2026 Country Programme prioritizes Early Childhood Development (ECD), aiming to increase public and private investments, reduce inequalities, and strengthen human capital. The office supports a multisectoral ECD strategy focusing on health, nutrition, preschool education, responsive parenting, and governance, with a special emphasis on vulnerable children and those on the move.

Job Purpose

The UN Volunteer will provide transversal support to the implementation of the Early Childhood Development (ECD) section's programme in Tunisia, under the direct supervision of the ECD Manager. The role involves strengthening an integrated approach focused on the needs of young children and their families, particularly those in vulnerable situations or on the move. The volunteer will contribute to enhancing governance, planning, and multisectoral implementation of ECD interventions. This includes supporting the development and execution of the national ECD strategy, updating situation analyses, and strengthening partner capacities for effective implementation. The position also involves supporting the standardization and institutionalization of the Positive Parenting Programme and fostering a strong partnership ecosystem to achieve ECD and positive parenting outcomes.

Responsibilities

The UN Volunteer will support the effective development and implementation of the national ECD strategy, focusing on strengthened governance, financing, and multisectoral integration within health, nutrition, protection, and preschool sectors. Responsibilities include periodically updating ECD situation analyses to inform policy and corrective measures, and supporting the development and validation of the 2026-2030 ECD strategy with robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. The volunteer will prepare technical notes, facilitate intersectoral alignment, and support the standardization and scale-up of the Positive Parenting Programme. Additionally, the role involves strengthening partnerships with institutions, NGOs, the private sector, and UN agencies, and supporting the implementation of health and nutrition programs, including for children on the move. The volunteer will also contribute to program monitoring, analysis, and reporting using evidence-based data, and promote the UNV mandate through volunteerism and community engagement in ECD, health, and nutrition interventions.

Work Experience

A minimum of three years of relevant professional experience is required. This includes academic qualifications in the medical, public health, or pharmaceutical sectors, and experience in early childhood development, public health, development, or public policy. Experience in project coordination or management, and working with civil society or non-governmental organizations, is also essential.

Skills

Key competencies include Diversity and Inclusion, Integrity, Commitment, Communication, Teamwork, and Results Orientation. The candidate should demonstrate respect for diversity, maintain high ethical standards, and be committed to UN missions. Strong communication skills for clear expression and audience engagement are essential, as is the ability to work collaboratively in a team and achieve project objectives. Expertise in Development Programmes, Health, and Education is also noted.

Explore related opportunities