UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. To save their lives. To defend their rights. To help them fulfill their potential.
Across 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, every day, to build a better world for everyone.
And we never give up.
For every child, HEALTH!
INTRODUCTION
Eritrea has made significant strides in improving maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH) outcomes, achieving remarkable reductions in under-5 years mortality rates; however, infant, neonatal, and maternal mortality is still high. The government’s commitment, through initiatives such as the Barefoot Doctors program and the implementation of strategic health policies, has driven this progress. UNICEF CO is also making its effort to bring Global Early Childhood Development (ECD) agenda forward by developing an integrated ECD strategic planning aligning with 6 Pillars (Health, Nutrition, WASH, Early Learning, Positive Parenting and Child Protection).
OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSIGNMENT
The primary objective of this internship is to conduct a detailed desk review of MNCH, HSSDP-III (Health Sector Strategic Development Program) and Early Childhood Development guiding documents.
The specific objectives are to:
- Identify bottlenecks and challenges in the implementation of the MNCH and ECD program.
- Identify opportunities for improvement and enhancement of the MNCH and ECD program.
- Examine the synergies between the various strategic plans and documents.
- Assess the alignment of the MNCH and ECD program with the Joint Work Plan, and UNSDCF
- Support the secretariat for convening of UN MNCH partners (WHO, UNFPA, UNICEF)
SCOPE OF WORK
The intern will undertake the following tasks:
- Document Review: Conduct a thorough review of the RMNCAH & HA Strategic Plan 2022–2026, HSSDP III (2022–2026), the Essential Health Care Package, Early Childhood document UNICEF, Vision, Nurturing Care, ECD program guidance.
- Bottleneck Analysis: Identify and analyze the key bottlenecks hindering the effective implementation of the MNCH and ECD programs.
- Opportunity Identification: Highlight potential opportunities for program improvement and the adoption of best practices.
- Synergy Assessment: Evaluate the synergies between the different strategic plans and their components.
- Alignment Check: Assess the alignment of the MNCH and ECD program with the Joint Work Plan, and UNSDCF.
- Reporting: Prepare a comprehensive report summarizing findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
- Secretariat functions for the UN MNCH Partners through meeting notices and minutes collection and sharing
RESULTS/EXPECTED OUTPUT
The expected outputs of this internship are:
- A detailed report outlining identified bottlenecks, opportunities, and synergies within the MNCH and ECD program guiding documents.
- An assessment report on the alignment of the MNCH and ECD programs with the Joint Work Plan, and UNSDCF
- Recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness of the MNCH and ECD program and its strategic documents.
- Enhanced synergy among UN MNCH Partners.
JOB GRADE FACTORS
- Report to Immunization Specialist (P3)
- Work under the close supervision of the Immunization Specialist. The supervisor defines the parameters of assignments and outlines approaches to problem areas. Carry out research to collect facts and data analysis in accordance with the established procedures and methodology. Work is reviewed while in progress, and upon completion.
- Incumbent operates within rules and regulations and makes technical recommendations to supervisor when a deviation from guidelines/procedures is required.
- Incumbent is expected to consult the supervisor and receive guidance on major and technical issues.
QUALIFICATION and COMPETENCIES
EDUCATION
- Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a bachelor’s degree program in Public Health, Health Policy, International Development, or a related field.
WORK EXPERIENCE
- Previous experience in desk research, policy analysis, or program evaluation is desirable but not mandatory.
LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
- Fluency in English and another UN language.
- Knowledge of the local working language of the duty station is an asset.
AREA OF EXPERTISE
- Strong analytical and research skills.
- Knowledge of maternal, newborn, and child health programs.
- Familiarity with strategic planning and health policy documents.
- Proficiency in report writing and presenting findings.
COMPETENCY PROFILE
- Core Values: Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, Accountability
- Core Competencies (Level 1): Demonstrates Self Awareness and Ethical Awareness; Works Collaboratively with others; Builds and Maintains Partnerships; Innovates and Embraces Change; Thinks and Acts Strategically; Drive to achieve impactful results; Manages ambiguity and complexity.
Remarks
UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities, to apply to become a part of the organization.
UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNICEF, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination. UNICEF also adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles and will therefore undergo rigorous reference and background checks. Background checks will include the verification of academic credential(s) and employment history. Selected candidates may be required to provide additional information to conduct a background check.
Qualified Female Candidates are highly encouraged!
CANDIDATES SHOULD PROVIDE EVIDENCE OF COMPLETION/EXEMPTION FROM NATIONAL SERVICE. PLEASE NOTE THAT COMPLETION/EXEMPTION OF NATIONAL SERVICE IS A REQUIREMENT. COPY OF CARD/EXEMPTION MUST BE ATTACHED. APPLICATIONS WITHOUT THIS REQUIREMENT WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.
Closing date of Application: 07 days from the date of advertisement
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process.