Coordination Assistant

Organizational Context

UNICEF's mission is to promote the rights of every child, everywhere, focusing on equity for the most disadvantaged. In India, the UN supports national efforts to address gaps in capacity, access, and representation for tribal youth, aligning with the Youth2030 strategy. The Adi Yuva Fellowship aims to mentor, train, and place marginalized youth in impactful roles, fostering an inclusive and representative future workforce. This role supports these objectives within the context of Odisha's diverse tribal communities and their specific challenges.

Job Purpose

The Coordination Assistant will support UNICEF's Social and Behaviour Change section in strengthening engagement with tribal communities in Odisha, particularly Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). This role is crucial for the Adi Yuva Fellowship initiative, which aligns with the UN Youth Strategy and supports the Government of India's PMJANMAN mission. The assistant will contribute to understanding and addressing the health, nutrition, education, child protection, and mental well-being issues faced by tribal women, children, and adolescents. By mapping needs, analyzing existing strategies, and supporting the development of targeted SBC strategies, the role aims to improve access to services, reduce stigma, and promote psychosocial well-being within these communities.

Responsibilities

The UN Volunteer will support the Social and Behaviour Change section by mapping tribal populations, focusing on PVTGs in Odisha, and analyzing key issues affecting tribal women, children, and adolescents in health, nutrition, WASH, education, and child protection. Responsibilities include analyzing existing government communication strategies for tribal populations, documenting mental health challenges and their links to social norms and stigma, and identifying psycho-social support services. The role involves supporting the preparation of an SBC strategy, integrating adolescent mental health and psychosocial well-being, and coordinating stakeholder consultations. Additionally, the volunteer will assist in developing training modules for frontline functionaries and community members on various health and protection topics, and contribute to documenting case studies and knowledge products for advocacy and learning.

Work Experience

One month of required experience and one year of relevant experience are needed. Prior experience in social development programs, disaster management, tribal/youth development, public advocacy, or communications with a focus on Social and Behaviour Change is essential. Demonstrated interest in tribal, youth, social, and developmental issues, including maternal and child health, adolescent development, and mental health, with an understanding of SDGs, is also required. Familiarity with youth-related challenges is advantageous.

Skills

Key competencies include Accountability, Adaptability and Flexibility, Building Trust, Commitment and Motivation, Commitment to Continuous Learning, Communication, Creativity, Empowering Others, Ethics and Values, Integrity, Knowledge Sharing, Planning and Organizing, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity, Self-Management, and Technological Awareness. Specific skills include expertise in Development programmes, Social work, and Communication.

Explore related opportunities