Programme Specialist – Youth Development

About the role

The Programme Specialist – Youth Development will lead UNFPA’s youth agenda in South Sudan from the Juba Main Office, reporting to the Deputy Representative. This senior‑level position provides technical leadership, policy advocacy and programme management to advance youth, peace and security objectives and to harness the demographic dividend.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and technical guidance for UNFPA’s comprehensive youth programme, integrating economic empowerment, peace and security, and demographic resilience.
• Lead policy advocacy and resource mobilisation to support youth development initiatives.
• Coordinate with colleagues on ASRHR, HIV, and innovation to ensure synergy across programmes.
• Develop and maintain multi‑sectoral partnerships with government, NGOs, and UN agencies.
• Contribute to joint programmes and inter‑agency coordination mechanisms, promoting the “Delivering as One” approach.
• Monitor, evaluate and report on programme performance, ensuring alignment with UNFPA Strategic Plan 2026‑2029 and SDG targets.

Required profile

• Advanced university degree in development studies, public policy, youth affairs, or a related field.
• Extensive experience (minimum 7 years) in youth programme design, implementation and advocacy, preferably in humanitarian or post‑conflict settings.
• Proven track record of resource mobilisation and partnership building.
• Strong understanding of youth, peace and security frameworks and demographic dividend concepts.

Required skills