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JOB DESCRIPTION
assignment(s)
Open recruitment (advertised)
Advertisement end date:25/03/2024
General
Description of assignment title
Programme management assistant
Assignment country
Senegal
Expected start date
15/04/2024
Sustainable Development Goal
11. Sustainable cities and communities
Volunteer category
International UN Youth Volunteer
Host entity
UN-HABITAT SEN
Type
Onsite
Duration
11 months (with possibility of extension)
Number of assignments
1
Duty stations
Dakar
Details
Mission and objectives
UN-Habitat is the United Nations Programme for Human Settlements working towards a better urban future. Established in 1978, its mission is to promote socially and environmentally sustainable human settlements development and the achievement of adequate shelter for all. Urbanization is one of the global megatrends of our time, unstoppable and irreversible. In 30 years from now, two-thirds of the world’s population is likely to live in urban areas. Ninety per cent of urban growth will occur in less developed regions, such as East Asia, South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, at a rapid pace and in situations in which capacity and resources are most constrained and development challenges most intense. Urbanization in those parts of the world is largely unplanned, fuelling the continuous growth of informal or slum settlements. Although the world has made significant progress in reducing poverty since 2000, inequality is rising in the cities of both the developing and developed world. Urban leaders, planners and all stakeholders shaping cities and communities need to be equipped with the right concepts, skills and tools to implement the New Urban Agenda and the urban dimension of the SDGs and tackle urban challenges in an efficient and integrated way. UN-Habitat designs and implements capacity-building initiatives, programmes and products at the global, regional and local levels across the world.
Context
The Capacity Development and Training Unit (CDTU) at UN-Habitat has the responsibility to oversee the production coordinate and share knowledge, tools, skill development in training and capacity development. The Unit collaborates with partners including training institutions, university, and government at national and city levels on subjects that focus on cities, making use of all the knowledge and information generated from the agency. In 2020, Member States adopted the UN-Habitat Capacity Building Strategy. It highlights five key areas of action: A. Institutional anchoring of capacity building as a cross-cutting function; B. Integration into programming and quality assurance; C. Promotion of innovation and technologies for capacity building; D. Stakeholders engagement and partnerships; The project “Harnessing urbanization for a more resilient, inclusive and green recovery in French-speaking least developed countries”, managed by the Capacity Development and Training Unit and the Regional Office for Africa, presents a three-level approach: 1) Deploy capacity-building on the NUA and relevant tools for operationalizing and monitoring, in support of recovery and resilience Select existing practical knowledge and tools responding to main urban challenges in the targeted countries, and make them accessible to governments, cities and other stakeholders in French-speaking Sub-Saharan Africa, using digital innovation as well as existing platforms and means of dissemination. 2) Seize the opportunity of the digital revolution and innovation for enhanced capacity-building and knowledge transfer Provide capacity-building support using blended-learning and digital education for the effective uptake and implementation of identified tools in Senegal, Burkina Faso and Haiti, and promote South-South cooperation and learning from experience between countries 3) Strengthen urban priorities in Cooperation Frameworks Provide technical assistance to strengthen the urban dimension of cooperation frameworks in Senegal, Burkina Faso, and Haiti, particularly tools supporting urban recovery and resilience
Task description
Within the delegated authority and under the supervision of the Associate Programme Manager at the Capacity Development and Training Unit, as well as the Senior Human Settlement Officer for West Africa (SHSO), the Youth UN Volunteer Project Management Expert will carry out the following duties and responsibilities: Within the Capacity Development and Training Unit: • Support the drafting and development of the Training Needs Assessment for the project “Harnessing urbanization for a more resilient, inclusive and green recovery in French-speaking least developed countries”; • Support the conceptualization of capacity-building activities and materials; • Work closely with the Associate Programme Manager in implementing the activities of the capacity-building project; • Provide inputs and contributions to concept notes and project documents, and guidance for the internal project validation procedures; • Translation of English and French relevant documents; • Liaise with the Regional Office for Africa, the Senegal Country Office, the Burkina Faso Country Office, the Latin America and the Caribbean Regional Office, and the Haiti Country Office in the coordination of projects taking place in West Africa and Haiti; • Support the development and dissemination of key capacity-building initiatives developed by CDTU (NUA Illustrated toolkit, UN-Habitat Learn platform, and others); • Any other tasks as discussed and agreed with the Associate Programme Manager. Within the Regional Office for Africa: • Work closely with the Senior Regional Planning Expert in implementing the activities of the second phase of the project ‘’Inclusive, Safe, Resilient and Sustainable Human Settlements in the Sahel’’; • Provide written, communication and design content to the finalization and dissemination of the Spatial Development Strategy for the Sahel (SDSS) second phase; • Compile and analyze data of transboundary areas of the SDSS to align with the Capital Investment Planning Tool (CIP) and the Spatial Development Framework (SDF) tool; • Preparation of the national consultations for the presentation of the SDSS and the high-level meeting in coordination with the country teams and UNDP; • Support the development and implementation of the Waste Wise Cities Tool in Cote d’Ivoire and Senegal. • Support project development in West Africa. Results/expected outputs Within the Capacity Development and Training Unit: 1. Written content for the Training Needs Assessment developed and formatted; 2. Documents on the implementation of activities of the capacity-building project, including financial reports and ToRs; 3. Support including coordination, document drafting, concept notes etc. to the project “Harnessing urbanization for a more resilient, inclusive and green recovery in French-speaking least developed countries”. 4. Translation of relevant documents between French/English 5. Reports on the activities between both units. 6. Other outputs as discussed and agreed with the Associate Programme Manager. Within Regional Office for Africa: 1. Data analysis of transboundary areas identified on the SDSS for the second phase of the project; 2. Final design and layout of the SDSS and communication material; 3. Working documents of the implementation of the second phase of the ‘’Inclusive, Safe, Resilient and Sustainable Human Settlements in the Sahel’’ project (ex: quarterly report, minutes meetings, terms of reference…); 4. Reports on the implementation of activities of the Sahel project second phase and ToRs; 5. Report regarding Waste Wise City Tool related activities in Cote d’Ivoire and Senegal; 6. Concept notes developed for West Africa.
Eligibility criteria
Age
18 – 26
Nationality
Candidate must be a national of a country other than the country of assignment.
Requirements
Required experience
2 years of experience in project management, research, or related area is required; • Experience working in the UN is an asset; • Experience working with sustainable urban development is an asset; • Experience working with the Africa and/or West Africa region is an asset; • Experience working with capacity development, including training needs assessments, is an asset; • Excellent oral and written skills; excellent drafting, formulation, reporting skills; • Accuracy and professionalism in document production and editing; • Excellent interpersonal skills; culturally and socially sensitive; ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with a range of partners, including grassroots community members, religious and youth organizations, and authorities at different levels; familiarity with tools and approaches of communications for development; • Ability to work and adapt professionally and effectively in a challenging environment; ability to work effectively in a multicultural team of international and national personnel; • Solid overall computer literacy, including proficiency in various MS Office applications (Excel, Word, etc.) and email/internet; • Self-motivated, ability to work with minimum supervision; ability to work with tight deadlines; • Have affinity with or interest in sustainable urbanization, volunteerism as a mechanism for durable development, and the UN System.
Area(s) of expertise
Business management, Development programmes, Administration
Driving license
–
Languages
English, Level: Fluent, Required French, Level: Fluent, Required
Required education level
Bachelor degree or equivalent in International relations, sustainable development, environmental studies or related area;
Competencies and values
• Professionalism: demonstrated understanding of operations relevant to UN-Habitat; technical capabilities or knowledge relevant or transferrable to UN-Habitat’s procedures and rules; discretion, political sensitivity, diplomacy and tact to deal with clients; ability to apply good judgement; ability to liaise and coordinate with a range of different actors, especially in senior positions; where appropriate, high degree of autonomy, personal initiative and ability to take ownership; resourcefulness and willingness to accept wide responsibilities and ability to work independently under established procedures; ability to manage information objectively, accurately and confidentially; responsive and client-oriented; • Integrity: demonstrate the values and ethical standards of the UN and UN-Habitat in daily activities and behaviours while acting without consideration of personal gains; resist undue political pressure in decision-making; stand by decisions that are in the organization’s interest even if they are unpopular; take prompt action in cases of unprofessional or unethical behaviour; does not abuse power or authority; • Teamwork and respect for diversity: ability to operate effectively across organizational boundaries; excellent interpersonal skills; ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and harmonious working relations in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic, mixed-gender environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity; sensitivity and adaptability to culture, gender, religion, nationality and age; commitment to implementing the goal of gender equality by ensuring the equal participation and full involvement of women and men in all aspects of UN operations; ability to achieve common goals and provide guidance or training to colleagues; • Commitment to continuous learning: initiative and willingness to learn new skills and stay abreast of new developments in area of expertise; ability to adapt to changes in work environment. • Planning and organizing: effective organizational and problem-solving skills and ability to manage a large volume of work in an efficient and timely manner; ability to establish priorities and to plan, coordinate and monitor (own) work; ability to work under pressure, with conflicting deadlines, and to handle multiple concurrent projects/activities; • Communication: proven interpersonal skills; good spoken and written communication skills, including ability to prepare clear and concise reports; ability to conduct presentations, articulate options and positions concisely; ability to make and defend recommendations; ability to communicate and empathize with staff (including national staff), military personnel, volunteers, counterparts and local interlocutors coming from very diverse backgrounds; capacity to transfer information and knowledge to a wide range of different target groups; • Flexibility: adaptability and ability to live and work in potentially hazardous and remote conditions, involving physical hardship and little comfort; to operate independently in austere environments for protracted periods; willingness to travel within the area of operations and to transfer to other duty stations within the area of operations as necessary; • Genuine commitment towards the principles of voluntary engagement, which includes solidarity, compassion, reciprocity and self-reliance; and commitment towards UN-Habitat’s mission and vision, as well as to the UN Core Values.
Other information
Living conditions and remarks
The assignment will take place in the nation’s capital, Dakar, a family duty station (Hardship classification A) with missions to the region. Dakar is a liveable city. The spontaneous reception and hospitality of the Senegalese are among the characteristic features of this West African country. The living conditions in Dakar are good, as well as the access to health services. The yellow fever vaccine is compulsory; vaccination cards should be presented at the entrance. Vaccinations against Meningococcal Meningitis and Hepatitis A and B are also recommended. The basic drugs are available in pharmacies, but it is recommended to bring specific prescription drugs. According to official estimates from ANSD/RGPHAE 2023, the Dakar metropolitan area population reaches over 3,9 million. The total population of Senegal is 18,032,473 inhabitants (ANSD 2023). Senegal is located on UTC/ GMT. Senegal has a warm climate and sunny days throughout the year that make it a comfortable duty station. Daytime temperatures are, on average, around 30°C. The rainy season is in the northern hemisphere’s summer/fall. The currency used in Senegal is called Franc CFA (XOF). On 1st January 2024, the average exchange rate is 1 USD = 602,577 XOF. Many hotels, restaurants and businesses in Senegal accept the leading international credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, etc.). It is also possible to withdraw cash from automatic telling machines found in all the major cities. The accommodation facilities are in general good, and the choice is vast. Renting unfurnished and furnished accommodations from 450 to 2000 USD is possible. UN Volunteers can also co-rent and share private concessions, which must comply with Minimum Operating Residential Security Standards (MORSS). Local taxis can easily arrange Transportation in town. A valid passport is required to enter Senegal. ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) nationals are not required to have an entry visa. Citizens of other countries may be required for an entry or long-stay visa. They should contact the closest Senegalese representation. Senegalese Embassies and consulates in various West African countries and other parts of the world issue visas before travel.
Inclusivity statement
United Nations Volunteers is an equal opportunity programme that welcomes applications from qualified professionals. We are committed to achieving diversity in terms of gender, care protected characteristics. As part of their adherence to the values of UNV, all UN Volunteers commit themselves to combat any form of discrimination, and to promoting respect for human rights and individual dignity, without distinction of a person’s race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status.
Note on Covid-19 vaccination requirements
Selected candidates for certain occupational groups may be subject to inoculation (vaccination) requirements, including against SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) in line with the applicable host entity policy
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