Mission and objectives

UNFPA programmes in Mauritius aim to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every birth is safe, and every young person’s potential is fulfilled.

Context

UNFPA is the lead UN agency for delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person’s potential is fulfilled. UNFPA’s strategic plan (2022-2025) focuses on three transformative results: to end preventable maternal deaths; end unmet need for family planning; and end gender-based violence and harmful practices. These results capture our strategic commitments on accelerating progress towards realizing the ICPD and SDGs in the Decade of Action leading up to 2030. Covering the islands of Mauritius and Seychelles, the UNFPA office established in Mauritius looks into strengthening technical assistance and support to local government partners for the effective implementation of the Government-UNFPA country programmes in response to national priorities and towards achieving sustainable development for women, adolescents and youth. In a world where fundamental human rights are at risk, we need principled and ethical staff, who embody our international norms and standards, and who will defend them courageously and with full conviction. UNFPA is seeking candidates that transform, inspire and deliver high impact and sustained results; we need staff who are transparent, exceptional in how they manage the resources entrusted to them and who are committed to delivering excellence in programme results.

Task Description

The Programme Associate ensures effective and efficient programme and financial support to UNFPA’s country programme by providing and managing data inputs, providing financial support, monitoring project implementation and following up on recommendations. The Programme Associate reports to the Head of Office for Mauritius and Seychelles. You would be responsible for Participating in the identification and formulation of the country programme and component projects by compiling and analyzing information in the subject areas of UNFPA assistance to the Government, preparing tables and statistical data, drafting project documents and work plans, managing project budgets in GPS/QUANTUM. Evaluating project and programme activities, establishing and implementing mechanisms to systematically assess the achievement of results, conducting field visits, participating in review meetings and evaluation missions and preparing regular inputs to status and progress reports. Analyzing basic factors affecting the achievement of results, recommending corrective actions and following up on recommendations. In coordination with national counterparts and project personnel, supporting routine implementation of assigned projects, coordinating delivery of project inputs. Contributing to creation and sharing of knowledge by synthesizing and documenting findings and lessons learned, success stories and best practices, strategies and approaches of the Country Office, and drafting relevant materials for dissemination. Providing logistical support to projects by coordinating review meetings and other project related travel, workshops and events. Training and guiding project personnel and staff on national execution and programme policies and procedures. Ensuring HACT compliant IP management (e.g., preparation of assurance plans, coordination of micro assessments/ spot checks/ monitoring visits/ audits, maintenance of IPAS). Monitoring programmatic and financial reports received from IPs and/or grantees and ensuring high quality and timely reporting (work plan progress reports, FACE forms, grant reports, etc.). Performing quarterly FACE reconciliations with OFA and CDR. Processing project related requisitions. Correctly apply UNFPA rules, regulations and procedures in all activities. Perform any other duties, as may be required by the UNFPA Country Office leadership

Competencies and values

Values Exemplifying integrity, Demonstrating commitment to UNFPA and the UN system, Embracing cultural diversity, Embracing change Core Competencies Achieving results, Being accountable, Developing and applying professional expertise/business acumen, Thinking analytically and strategically, Working in teams/managing ourselves and our relationships, Functional Competencies: Providing procurement services Ensuring facilities and assets management Managing data, documents, correspondence and reports Managing information and workflow Planning, organizing and multitasking Supporting financial data analysis

Living conditions and remarks

Mauritius is generally a safe and peaceful country with a stable political environment. Petty crime exists, but violent crime is rare. The island boasts a subtropical climate with warm weather year-round, making it a pleasant place to live. Security Situation: Generally safe with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions against petty theft, especially in tourist areas. The main airport is Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU), offering good connections to major international destinations. Internal travel is primarily by road, with a reliable bus network and readily available taxis. Climate: Subtropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. Summer (November to April): Hot and humid with temperatures reaching 30°C. Winter (May to October): Cooler and drier with temperatures around 20°C. Cyclone season occurs between November and April. Cultural Awareness: Mauritius is a multicultural society with influences from Indian, African, Chinese, and European cultures. Dress code is generally casual but modest. Alcohol consumption is legal and socially acceptable, but moderation is advised. Cost of Living: The cost of living in Mauritius is relatively moderate compared to other island nations. Accommodation costs can vary depending on location and type of housing. Food prices are generally affordable, with a wide variety of local and international cuisine available. Accommodation Options: Various options are available, including apartments, houses, and guesthouses. Availability of Food/Water/Electricity: Food and water are readily available throughout the island. The electricity supply is generally reliable. Medical Facilities: Mauritius has a good healthcare system with public and private hospitals and clinics. It is advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance. Banking Facilities: Several international and local banks operate in Mauritius. ATMs are widely available. Communications Infrastructure: Mauritius has a well-developed communication infrastructure with good mobile phone coverage and internet access.