UNICEF SUR / Published Jun 30, 2026

Program Support Officer

On-site4. Quality education

Location: Suriname; Paramaribo
Duration: 365 days; Possible extension
Deadline: Jul 16, 2026; 1 day left
Assignments: 1; available position(s)
Expected start: Aug 1, 2026
Volunteer category: Specialist UCoS from Apr2026; National

Sustainable Development Goal

4. Quality education

Assignment

What the volunteer will do

Mission and objectives

The fundamental mission of UNICEF is to promote the rights of every child, everywhere, in everything the organization does in programs, in advocacy and in operations. The equity strategy, emphasizing the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families, translates this commitment to children’s rights into action. For UNICEF, equity means that all children have an opportunity to survive, develop and reach their full potential, without discrimination, bias or favouritism. To the degree that any child has an unequal chance in life in its social, political, economic, civic and cultural dimensions her or his rights are violated. There is growing evidence that investing in the health, education and protection of a society’s most disadvantaged citizens addressing inequity not only will give all children the opportunity to fulfil their potential but also will lead to sustained growth and stability of countries. This is why the focus on equity is so vital. It accelerates progress towards realizing the human rights of all children, which is the universal mandate of UNICEF, as outlined by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, while also supporting the equitable development of nations.

Context

The UN Volunteer will be part of the UNICEF Suriname Office, which is transitioning into a Multi-Country Office (MCO) structure covering Suriname and other Caribbean countries, including Guyana. This transition reflects UNICEF’s evolving approach to delivering integrated and efficient program support across the region. The office is undergoing significant organizational and staffing changes, including reduced program support staffing capacity. Within this changing context, the UN Volunteer will provide flexible program and coordination support across sectors, contributing to program implementation, partnership coordination, knowledge management, monitoring, and operational support. The role is expected to strengthen program continuity during the transition period and support UNICEF’s efforts to deliver equitable results for children and adolescents across the Multi-Country Office. The UN Volunteer will work closely with program staff, government counterparts, UN agencies, civil society organizations, and development partners supporting child rights, social development, health, protection, resilience, and inclusion initiatives.

Task description

Programme support Support the planning, coordination, implementation, and monitoring of UNICEF program activities across sectors, including education, child protection, health, climate change, and emergency response. Stronger emphasis is on support to the education program including the development, coordination, implementation, and monitoring of education-related programme activities in the Multi-country program setting. This may include support in the areas of Early Childhood Development (ECD), education policy development, foundational learning and skills, and education data management and analysis. The UN Volunteer may contribute to programme planning, stakeholder coordination, data collection and interpretation, preparation of technical and policy documents, and support for evidence-based programming and advocacy in the education sector. Assist in organizing meetings, workshops, consultations, and missions with government counterparts, partners, and stakeholders. Knowledge Management Support knowledge management, contribute to cross-sectoral initiatives and support teamwork in a dynamic and evolving office structure (organizing reports, research, and program documents, maintaining shared folders or databases, documenting meeting outcomes and lessons learned, helping teams share experiences across countries in the Multi-Country Office, compiling data, stories, and evidence for donor reporting). End-Year Reporting Support the collection, organization, and analysis of program information and data for (end of the year) reporting purposes. Support the SITREPS of emerging areas of focus (Migration/ emergencies)

Requirements

Eligibility and qualifications

Age: 18 - 80
Required experience: 3 years
Education: Bachelor's degree
Nationality: National or legal resident of the assignment country

Languages

DutchPreferred

Working knowledge

EnglishRequired

Fluent

Areas of expertise

EducationProject management, programme development, strategyGeneral and specialised medicine

Skills and experience

- Experience working with government institutions, civil society organizations, youth groups, or international organizations and/or supporting multi-sectoral programs. - Experience in data collection, reporting, documentation, or knowledge management is desirable. - Familiarity with issues related to equity, inclusion, child rights, gender equality, climate resilience, mental health, or digital innovation/T4D is an advantage. - International experience in and/or knowledge of education programs, education sector reform initiatives, and education policy development is highly desirable. - Knowledge of Early Childhood Development (ECD), foundational learning, education systems strengthening, and education data management is considered an asset. - Experience in program monitoring, data analysis, and evidence-based planning within the education sector is desirable. - Regional or international experience supporting education reform, education program implementation, or policy development is considered a strong asset, as is the ability to work across sectors and support integrated programming approaches within evolving organizational contexts. - Adaptability, strong organizational and communication skills, the ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment, and an interest in supporting integrated program approaches for children and adolescents. - Previous experience with the United Nations or other international development organizations is desirable. - Working in dynamic and changing environments is an asset. Desirable Attributes: - Demonstrated interest in child rights, equity, inclusion, and sustainable development. - Initiative, flexibility, and willingness to learn. - Interest in innovation and cross-sectoral programming approaches. - Sensitivity to cultural diversity and commitment to inclusion Applicants who do not fully meet the minimum professional experience requirements for a UN Volunteer ‘Specialist’ assignment are still encouraged to apply; if selected, they may be recruited under the Conditions of Service applicable to UN Volunteer ‘Associate’ assignments.

Competencies and values

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

Notes

Additional information

Living conditions and remarks

Paramaribo is the capital city and main administrative and commercial centre of the country. It offers a relatively calm and peaceful living environment with a diverse multicultural population and a welcoming atmosphere. Suriname is generally considered a stable country with a low to moderate security risk compared to many locations in the region. As in any urban setting, staff are advised to exercise normal safety precautions, particularly at night and in less populated areas. UNICEF and the United Nations system maintain security protocols and provide guidance to personnel as needed. Paramaribo is accessible through international flights connecting mainly via the Caribbean, the Netherlands, Panama, and regional hubs. Travel within the country may involve road and, in some interior locations, air or river transport depending on program needs. Dutch is the official language of Suriname; however, the majority of the population also understands and speaks English, particularly in professional and urban settings. Knowledge of Dutch can be an advantage for daily interactions and engagement with government counterparts. Housing options are available in Paramaribo, including furnished apartments and houses at varying price levels. Cost of living can be moderate to relatively high for imported goods and accommodation. Basic goods, supermarkets, restaurants, banking services, internet, and mobile communication services are generally available and accessible in the capital. Electricity and water services are generally stable in urban areas, although occasional disruptions may occur. Medical facilities and pharmacies are available in Paramaribo, including private clinics and hospitals for routine and emergency care. More specialized medical treatment may require evacuation to another country. The duty station offers opportunities for cultural exchange, regional collaboration, and meaningful engagement with child-focused development initiatives. The transition to a Multi-Country Office structure provides a dynamic and evolving work environment with exposure to cross-country collaboration and innovative programming approaches.

Inclusivity statement

United Nations Volunteers is an equal opportunity programme that welcomes applications from qualified professionals. UNV is committed to diversity, human rights, and individual dignity.

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