Public Health Programme Officer
Organizational Context
UNICEF's core mission is to uphold the rights of every child globally, focusing on equity to ensure all children have the opportunity to survive, develop, and reach their full potential. This commitment translates into action through programmes, advocacy, and operations. Investing in the health, education, and protection of disadvantaged citizens is seen as vital for sustained national growth and stability, aligning with UNICEF's universal mandate and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Job Purpose
The UNV Primary Health Care Specialist will support the implementation of a project aimed at reducing maternal and child mortality in Sierra Leone through the promotion of Primary Health Care. This initiative, funded by the Government of Japan, will be rolled out over three years across all 16 districts. The role involves providing oversight and technical support for the planning, implementation, and monitoring of the project, with a key focus on the nationwide rollout of the Maternal and Child Health Handbook. This handbook is designed to offer integrated health and nutrition services, enhance caregiver knowledge, empower communities, and strengthen the overall PHC system for improved health outcomes.
Responsibilities
The UNV Primary Health Care Specialist will support the phased implementation of the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Handbook within the Primary Health Care (PHC) package, contributing to quality of care in maternal and child health services. Responsibilities include providing technical support for district-level PHC and health systems strengthening, focusing on capacity building, performance management, and decentralized planning. The role also involves supporting communication and community engagement strategies for positive parenting and nurturing care, collaborating with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders. Furthermore, the specialist will engage in coordination and partnership activities, participating in forums to harmonize project implementation, serving as a UNICEF focal point, and promoting collaborative approaches to address service delivery and data management challenges. Capacity building of district teams and partners for governance and oversight is also a key responsibility.
Work Experience
A minimum of 3 years of relevant experience is required, including supporting the planning, implementation, monitoring, or coordination of public health, nutrition, or community-based programmes. Experience in coordinating with government counterparts, partners, and community stakeholders is essential. Skills in capacity building, translating technical guidance into practical activities, strong analytical, organizational, and communication abilities, and proficiency in standard office software are also necessary.
Skills
Key competencies include Accountability, Adaptability and Flexibility, Building Trust, Commitment and Motivation, Commitment to Continuous Learning, Communication, Ethics and Values, Integrity, Judgement and Decision-making, Knowledge Sharing, Managing Performance, Planning and Organizing, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity, Self-Management, Technological Awareness, and Working in Teams. Expertise in Administration, Nursing, Midwifery, Paramedics, Medical Technology, Public Health, and Immunisation is also relevant.