Junior Programme Assistant: Education for Health and Wellbeing (EHW)

Organizational Context

UNESCO works to promote peace and sustainable development through international cooperation in education, science, culture, communication, and information. In South Africa, UNESCO collaborates with government, partners, and civil society to enhance education, health, well-being, gender equality, and youth empowerment, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals. The Education for Health and Well-being (EHW) programme specifically supports policies and partnerships to improve health and educational outcomes for children and young people.

Job Purpose

The Junior Programme Assistant will provide crucial administrative, operational, and project coordination support to UNESCO South Africa's Education for Health and Well-being (EHW) programme team. Working under the guidance of senior staff, the role involves contributing to the efficient planning, coordination, and delivery of programme activities. This assignment offers a valuable opportunity for a young professional to gain practical experience within the UN system, developing skills in project administration, programme coordination, financial and procurement processes, records management, stakeholder engagement, and reporting. The UN Volunteer will ensure programme activities are well-coordinated, documented, and implemented according to UNESCO procedures and work plans.

Responsibilities

The Junior Programme Assistant will support programme coordination and implementation by assisting in the planning, coordination, and execution of EHW activities, meetings, and workshops, ensuring logistical and administrative support. The role involves contributing to UNCT internal coordination, supporting UNESCO's participation in thematic groups, developing digital communications for the UNSDCF, and contributing to joint UN initiatives on gender equality and youth empowerment. Responsibilities also include strengthening youth and learner engagement in SRGBV programming by coordinating with youth networks, supporting meaningful participation in programme design and review, and documenting youth perspectives. Furthermore, the assistant will support advocacy, digital engagement, and programme visibility by developing content for various channels, managing digital campaigns, documenting results and stories, and contributing to national and UN advocacy campaigns. Operational support includes collecting and organizing programme information, contributing to reports, documenting lessons learned, and providing administrative assistance for meetings, travel, procurement, and records management.

Work Experience

No prior experience is required, but one year of relevant experience is desirable. This includes experience in project or programme administration, office administration, education, youth development, health and well-being programmes, or development cooperation. Experience with financial administration, procurement processes, records management, or working with diverse stakeholders in multicultural environments is also beneficial. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and skills in report writing, communication, and event coordination are expected.

Skills

Key competencies include Accountability, Adaptability and Flexibility, Building Trust, Client Orientation, Commitment and Motivation, Continuous Learning, Communication, Ethics and Values, Integrity, Knowledge Sharing, Planning and Organizing, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity, Self-Management, and Working in Teams. Technical skills include proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, administrative and organizational support, report writing, records management, and event planning. Expertise areas include Administration and Education.

Explore related opportunities