UNFPA South Sudan is committed to supporting the Youth Leading Peace project under the Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund. This initiative focuses on fostering participatory and inclusive mechanisms for implementing the Youth Peace and Security Agenda in South Sudan. The project aims to promote and institutionalise youth participation in peacebuilding processes, leveraging the vast potential of a population where over 70% are under 30 years of age. With a history of young people being marginalised in peace dialogues and processes, the project proposes an innovative approach to engage young men and women in these crucial conversations, enhancing their ability to contribute to sustainable peace.

Given the strategic importance of this project and the need for dedicated leadership to drive its successful implementation, a National Consultant will be engaged as a Coordinator. This role is crucial to ensure that the project activities are aligned with UNFPA’s guidelines and the specific objectives of the Peacebuilding Fund, particularly in empowering youth in peacebuilding initiatives.

The Coordinator for the Youth Leading Peace Project will be responsible for steering the project towards achieving its intended outcomes. The consultant will work under the direct supervision of the Programme Adviser/SRH&R, collaborating with relevant units within UNFPA and external stakeholders, including government partners and civil society organizations

You would be responsible for:

Under the overall guidance of the UNFPA South Sudan Country Representative and direct supervision of the Programme Adviser/ SRH, the consultant will:

1. Project Implementation and Coordination.

• Lead and coordinate the project implementation to ensure timely achievement of project results.
• Compile and submit Quarterly Financial Forecasts (FFs) and mid-year (June 2024) and end-of-year reports (November 2024).
• Coordinate with UNFPA, UNESCO, Government and other partners, including Implementing Partners, for efficient and effective project delivery.
• Ensure adherence to PBF project modalities, timelines, and deliverables

2. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Oversight.

• Establish and implement monitoring and evaluation frameworks aligned with PBF guidelines.
• Oversee project activities, ensuring compliance with UNFPA and PBF policies and guidelines.
• Conduct regular field visits to monitor progress and provide technical support as necessary.
• Collect and analyse data to prepare comprehensive progress reports.

3. Stakeholder Engagement and Capacity Building.

• Work closely with government partners, CSOs, and other stakeholders to ensure inclusive and participatory implementation.
• Build and maintain partnerships with executing agencies, government counterparts, and UN agencies.
• Provide technical assistance and capacity building to partners and stakeholders.
• Engage actively in advocacy and resource mobilization efforts for the project.

4. Policy Review and Environmental Analysis.

• Review political, social, and economic environments relevant to the project, adapting strategies as necessary.
• Address emerging challenges such as health issues, upcoming general elections and other crises impacting project execution.

5. Knowledge Management and Strategy Development.

• Facilitate the establishment of youth-inclusive peace fora in selected states.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of a comprehensive strategy for Youth Peace and Security
• Participate in the formulation of strategies and policies related to the project.

6. Additional Responsibilities.

• Work collaboratively with the M&E and Finance focal person to engage Implementing Partners (IPs) in developing work plans.
• Ensure integration of gender and youth perspectives in all project activities.
• Perform any other duties as required by UNFPA leadership.

Qualifications and Experience: 

Education:  

Master’s degree in advanced degree in Demography, Social Sciences, Peace and Conflict Studies, International Relations, or related fields

Knowledge and Experience: 

• Five years of professional experience in project management, preferably in peacebuilding, youth development, or related fields.
•  Experience in coordinating complex, multi-sectoral projects, liaising with various stakeholders including government, donors, and local communities

Languages: 

Fluent in written and spoken English, knowledge of Arabic will be an asset

Required Competencies: 

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:

• Advocacy/Advancing a policy-oriented agenda
• Leveraging the resources of national governments and partners/ building strategic alliances and partnerships
• Internal and external communication and advocacy for results mobilization
• Delivering results-based programmes
• Technical Understanding of the areas of work
• Project Management
• Managing financial processes
• Proficiency in current office software applications