Responsable du Changement Social et Comportemental Polio - Immunisation

Organizational Context

UNICEF Chad implements the 2017-2021 country cooperation program, aiming to advance child rights while reducing disparities. The program focuses on child health and nutrition, inclusive education, child protection, social inclusion, and program effectiveness. Within child health, priorities include community-based care, equitable vaccination coverage, and addressing malnutrition. UNICEF operates in challenging environments to reach disadvantaged children, advocating for their rights and potential.

Job Purpose

This role supports UNICEF Chad's efforts within the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) and Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI). The volunteer will assist the government in reducing circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) cases and reaching zero-dose children. Key contributions include supporting effective response campaigns, mobilizing communities and partners, and enhancing social and behavioral change (SBC) interventions to increase demand and utilization of vaccination services, particularly for polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases.

Responsibilities

The volunteer will support technical structures of the Ministry of Public Health and UNICEF's Social and Behavioral Change (SBC) section in designing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating SBC interventions for vaccination services, focusing on polio. This includes providing technical support for strategies to reduce cVDPV2 cases and zero-dose children, organizing response campaigns, and supporting new vaccine introductions. The role involves contributing to advocacy and partnership building with social groups to promote effective SBC approaches for EPI goals. Capacity building for stakeholders in SBC planning, implementation, and evaluation is crucial. The volunteer will ensure community and civil society participation in polio eradication and EPI efforts, develop and produce culturally relevant communication materials, and monitor/evaluate the impact of SBC strategies for measurable social and behavioral changes. The role also involves developing capacities through mentoring and training national counterparts and integrating age, gender, and diversity perspectives into all activities.

Work Experience

A minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience is required. Experience in social development program planning, communication, and public advocacy is essential. Experience in SBC for vaccination is a strong asset, as is experience in monitoring SBC activities related to polio eradication.

Skills

Key competencies include integrity, professionalism, accountability, and a commitment to continuous learning. Strong planning, organization, and problem-solving skills are necessary, along with the ability to work effectively in a team and respect diversity. Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills are vital, including presentation and report-writing abilities. Flexibility, adaptability, and the willingness to work in challenging, remote, and potentially hazardous environments are required. Adherence to UN values and principles of volunteerism is essential.

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