Emergency Preparedness project officer

Volunteering Medical & Health Crisis & Emergency Response

Overview

Support emergency preparedness initiatives in public health

You have:

• Experience in emergency preparedness and response activities
• Excellent drafting, formulation, and reporting skills
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural team of international and national personnel
• Knowledge of International Health Regulations (IHR)
• Strong organizational skills and adaptability to work in challenging environments

Contract

This is a UNV International Specialist contract. This kind of contract is known as International UN Volunteer. It is normally internationally recruited only. More about UNV International Specialist contracts.

The World Health Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations Public Health Organization established in 1948. The objective of the World Health Organization is the attainment by all peoples of the highest possible level of health. World Health Organization achieves its goals by performing its essential functions: 1. Take a leadership role in key health issues and create partnerships when joint action is needed; 2. Set research priorities and encourage the acquisition, application, and dissemination of useful knowledge; 3. Setting standards and criteria and encouraging and monitoring them; 4. Develop ethical and evidence-based policies 5. Provide technical support, be an agent of change, and build institutional capacity in a sustainable way; 6. Monitor health status and assess health trends.

The mission of WHO’s Health Emergencies Programme is to build the capacity of Member States to manage health emergency risks and, when national capacities are overwhelmed, to lead and coordinate the international health response to contain outbreaks and to provide effective relief and recovery to affected populations. Specifically, the health emergency preparedness program area supports Member States to build and sustain their International Health Regulations (IHR) capacities to strengthen preparedness for early detection, reporting and effective response.

Within the delegated authority and under the direct supervision of the unit Lead, Health Security Preparedness (HSP) and overall guidance of the program Area Manager, Emergency Preparedness (EMP), the UN Volunteer Emergency Preparedness Project Officer will: • Support the implementation and monitoring of EPR flagship initiative – Promote Resilience of Systems for Emergencies (PROSE) • Support monitoring, compilation and follow-up of requests received from countries for EMP support and provide weekly progress report to PAM EMP and HSP Unit Lead. • Support donor reporting for EMP grant implemented by the HSP unit including monthly report of key HSP activities. • Support the preparation and reporting of meetings of Member States and AFRO INB taskforce on development of Pandemic Treaty and IHR amendment processes. • Support the organization of EMP webinars and other meetings and ensure the meeting notes are submitted on time. • Follow-up with countries on key HSP activities • Support the planning, organization and reporting (including key action points) of teleconferences (TCs) for HSP activities. • Participate in key HSP activities/missions together with technical experts to support reporting. • Support documentation of key HSP activities in collaboration with technical experts • Support any other assignments in EMP as may be required.

• Accountability • Adaptability and flexibility • Creativity • Judgement and decision-making • Planning and organising • Professionalism • Self-management

project or program management, reporting, documentation and monitoring and evaluation. Skills: • 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;

The State of Eritrea is located in the Horn of Africa, bordered by Sudan to the west, Ethiopia to the south, Djibouti to the southeast, and the Red Sea to the east. Eritrea operates as a unitary state with six administrative regions known as Zobas. The country has a population of approximately 3.5 million people, growing at a rate of 1.4% per year. Eritrea’s economy is largely agricultural, with key crops including sorghum, barley, wheat, and maize. The Gross National Income (GNI) per capita, adjusted for purchasing power parity (PPP), is estimated to be around $1,500. Although significant progress has been made in improving living standards, over 50% of Eritrea’s population still lives below the poverty line.

Asmara, the capital city, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful Italian-style architecture. It offers basic amenities including supermarkets, health facilities, and a few international restaurants. However, options are limited, and prices for imported goods can be high. Access to quality healthcare and educational facilities can be challenging, and expatriates often seek medical attention outside the country.

The climate in Asmara is mild throughout the year, given its elevation at over 2,300 meters above sea level. Summers are warm, but not extreme, and winters are cool. In coastal regions such as Massawa, the climate is hot and humid, particularly during the summer months.

Infrastructure and Services: Eritrea’s infrastructure development is ongoing, and while Asmara has relatively reliable public services, water and electricity shortages are common, requiring residents to have alternative power sources like generators and water storage tanks. Internet access is slow and expensive, with limited coverage outside of major cities. Mobile phone service is available but may be unreliable in rural areas.

Transportation: The main international gateway is Asmara International Airport, with limited international flights. Road transport is the most common means of travel within the country, but road conditions can vary. Public transport in the form of buses and taxis is available in urban centers, but personal vehicles are recommended for mobility outside the city.

Socio-Economic and Cultural Background: Eritrea is home to nine ethnic groups, each with distinct cultural practices and languages. Tigrinya is the most widely spoken language, but Arabic and English are also commonly used, particularly in business and government sectors. Eritrea is known for its emphasis on self-reliance, and community solidarity is deeply ingrained in the culture. Security in Asmara and other parts of the country is generally stable, though some regions may have travel restrictions due to political sensitivities.

Living Conditions in Eritrea can be basic and require adaptability. Flexibility and a high level of cultural awareness are important for expatriates. The country offers a unique and enriching environment, but the lack of certain modern conveniences and the intermittent availability of services can pose challenges. Living in Eritrea may involve some physical hardships, making resilience and a willingness to adapt essential for a comfortable and successful stay..

Apply now

Potential interview questions

Added 1 year ago - Updated 1 year ago - Source: unv.org