National Consultant - Noncommunicable Diseases (ncds) Capacity Building For Fiji And Pacific Island Countries

Organizational Context

The World Health Organization (WHO) Western Pacific Region, through its Fiji office, is focused on strengthening the health workforce to achieve Universal Health Coverage. This role supports the Pacific Open Learning Health Net (POLHN) initiative, which provides online learning opportunities for health workers in Pacific Island Countries, with a current focus on Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) in Fiji.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to enhance NCD prevention and management capacity among health workers in Fiji and other Pacific Island Countries. The role will involve conducting a context-specific training needs assessment to identify competency gaps and developing relevant online learning materials for the POLHN platform. The ultimate goal is to improve the skills and knowledge of healthcare professionals in addressing the growing burden of NCDs in the region, contributing to better health outcomes and the achievement of Universal Health Coverage.

Responsibilities

The consultant will lead the development of a concept note and detailed plan for an NCD training needs assessment in Fiji, including research questions and methodology. They will produce a comprehensive needs assessment report identifying competency gaps and priority training topics, with a focus on the Northern Division. Additionally, the consultant will draft concept notes for online course production and develop technical learning materials for two NCD courses tailored to the Pacific context for the POLHN platform. This includes iterative production, quality review, and stakeholder consultations. The role also involves developing an implementation plan for a pilot blended training and providing technical support for its delivery, using feedback to refine online courses. Collaboration with the Fiji Ministry of Health, professional councils, and health workers is essential to ensure contextual relevance and sustainability.

Work Experience

Essential: At least two years of experience in Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs), capacity building, health workforce development, or public health. Desirable: Experience with WHO or other UN agencies, and specific experience working in Fiji and Pacific Island Countries (PICs) on NCDs and capacity building.

Skills

Strong understanding of NCD policy and health service delivery in Fiji/PICs; knowledge of health workforce development and systems; strong writing skills (concept notes, reports, proposals); technical and diplomatic engagement skills; independent problem-solving ability; teamwork and adaptability; familiarity with the Fiji health system.

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