Programme Coordinator - Operations Coordination and Representation

Organizational Context

UNICEF, a UN humanitarian agency, operates in over 192 countries, focusing on children's health, education, protection, and development. In Cameroon since 1975, UNICEF supports these areas, advocating for policies and strengthening stakeholder capacity. The Child Protection Program specifically aims to shield children, particularly adolescent girls, from violence and exploitation, enhancing government and community systems to combat rights violations. The current focus is on an integrated education, WASH, and child protection program in the crisis-affected North-West and South-West regions.

Job Purpose

This role supports UNICEF's efforts in Cameroon, specifically within the North-West region, to address the severe learning crisis exacerbated by ongoing conflict. The Programme Coordinator will monitor and report on project implementation with partners, focusing on the "Strengthening Access to Education in Emergencies" program funded by ECHO. This involves ensuring planned results are achieved across education, child protection, and WASH sectors. The position requires close coordination with UNICEF officers and implementing partners to facilitate program development, provide technical and operational support, and ensure adherence to project goals and donor requirements. The aim is to improve service delivery, strengthen stakeholder capacity, and contribute to the overall well-being and protection of children in a challenging environment.

Responsibilities

The UNV Programme Coordinator will monitor UNICEF partners in the Northwest region, ensuring project results are achieved and reviewing implementation progress regularly. Responsibilities include developing reports on interventions across Education, Child Protection, and WASH sectors, highlighting challenges and solutions. The role involves supporting partners in the use of programme resources and the assurance plan, including spot checks and audits. The coordinator will also provide technical and administrative support for programme development and planning, ensuring adherence to project proposals and results-based management. Field visits will be conducted to assess progress and report on critical issues. The position requires representing UNICEF at inter-agency coordination forums in Bamenda, fostering robust working relationships with government bodies, partners, and UN agencies. Additionally, the role involves contributing to innovation, knowledge management, and capacity building for stakeholders, promoting good practices and lessons learned. The coordinator will also integrate the UN Volunteers programme mandate, promoting voluntary action and engaging with communities.

Work Experience

A minimum of 3 years of professional work experience is required, preferably with UN or international development organizations. Experience in programme monitoring, reporting, and working with diverse stakeholders is essential. Proficiency in MS Office applications and strong computer literacy are necessary. Experience in driving manual gear 4x4 vehicles in rough terrain is desirable. Affinity with child welfare and the UN system is also preferred.

Skills

Key competencies include professionalism, integrity, and teamwork, with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment and respect diversity. Strong planning, organizing, and problem-solving skills are needed to manage workload efficiently and meet deadlines. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are crucial for reporting, documentation, and stakeholder engagement. Flexibility and adaptability to work in challenging, potentially remote conditions are important. A genuine commitment to volunteerism, UNICEF's mission, and UN Core Values is essential. Specific skills in project management, programme development, strategy, partnerships, resource mobilization, monitoring, and evaluation are highly valued.

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