Child Protection Officers at Global Village Healthcare Initiative for Africa (GHIV Africa) – Borno & Yobe Full Time NEW

Job Title: Child Protection Officer

Locations: Borno & Yobe (Roving)
Reports To: Gender and Disability Specialist
Duration: One year subject to renewal

Job Purpose

• The Child Protection Officer is responsible for ensuring that child protection policies and practices are effectively integrated into all program activities within the Education Cannot Wait (ECW) initiative.
• This role addresses critical issues related to gender-based violence (GBV), child safeguarding, and the provision of psychological support to children affected by crises.
• The Child Protection Officer will work collaboratively with program staff, community members, and stakeholders to promote a safe and supportive environment for children.

Key Responsibilities
Policy Integration:

• Ensure that child protection principles and policies are embedded in all aspects of program planning, implementation, and evaluation.
• Develop and disseminate guidelines and resources related to child protection for program staff and partners.
• Conduct regular assessments to identify gaps in child protection measures and recommend improvements.

Training and Capacity Building:

• Provide training and support to program staff, partners, and community members on child protection policies, child safeguarding practices, and gender-based violence prevention.
• Organize workshops and training sessions to enhance awareness and skills related to child protection among educators, caregivers, and community leaders.

Monitoring and Reporting:

• Monitor program activities to ensure compliance with child protection standards and practices.
• Collect and analyze data related to child protection issues, including incidents of violence and abuse, and prepare reports for management and stakeholders.
• Ensure proper documentation of child protection cases and incidents, and maintain confidentiality in line with safeguarding protocols.

Support and Intervention:

• Provide psychological support and counseling to children affected by violence, trauma, or other forms of abuse, in coordination with mental health professionals.
• Work with families and communities to develop supportive networks for children, ensuring their well-being and protection.
• Collaborate with relevant local authorities and organizations to facilitate referrals and access to specialized services for children in need.

Community Engagement:

• Raise awareness about child protection issues within communities, promoting safe practices and behaviors that protect children from harm.
• Engage with community leaders, parents, and youth to foster a culture of protection and support for children.
• Establish and maintain child protection committees or networks within the community to enhance local ownership and responsiveness to child protection concerns.

Coordination with Stakeholders:

• Collaborate with other sectors and organizations working in child protection, education, and health to ensure an integrated response to the needs of children.
• Represent the organization at relevant child protection meetings, forums, and advocacy events to promote children’s rights and protection.

Emergency Response:

• Develop and implement child protection strategies in emergency situations, ensuring a rapid and effective response to protect children.
• Participate in needs assessments and emergency planning to identify child protection concerns and inform response strategies.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Child Development, Psychology, Education, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in child protection, social work, or related fields, preferably in humanitarian or development contexts.
• Proven experience in addressing issues related to gender-based violence and child safeguarding.

Core Competencies:
Child Protection Expertise:

• Strong knowledge of child protection policies, standards, and best practices, including UN and international guidelines.
• Understanding of the psychosocial needs of children affected by violence, trauma, and crisis situations.

Interpersonal and Communication Skills:

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with children, families, community members, and stakeholders.
• Strong advocacy skills to promote child protection issues and influence positive change within communities.

Training and Facilitation Skills:

• Experience in designing and delivering training programs on child protection, safeguarding, and GBV prevention.
• Ability to facilitate discussions and workshops that promote understanding and commitment to child protection principles.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills:

• Strong analytical skills to assess child protection risks and develop effective interventions.
• Ability to think critically and respond effectively to complex situations involving child protection issues.

Cultural Sensitivity:

• Awareness of and respect for cultural differences and community dynamics in relation to child protection.
• Ability to adapt strategies to align with local customs and practices while promoting child rights.

Technical Proficiency:

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and data management tools.
• Familiarity with monitoring and evaluation methodologies related to child protection programs.

Commitment to Values:

• Strong commitment to the principles of child protection, gender equality, and social justice.
• Understanding of and dedication to safeguarding vulnerable populations, particularly children.

Personal Attributes:

• Empathy and Compassion: Demonstrates a genuine concern for the well-being of vulnerable individuals.
• Integrity: Maintains the highest ethical standards in all professional activities.
• Resilience: Capable of working under challenging conditions and managing stress effectively.
• Problem Solving: Proactive in identifying issues and implementing solutions.

Application Closing Date
27th December, 2024.

Important Information

• GHIV African PSEA / GBV, and Child Safeguarding policies:  The successful candidate shall comply and promote the PSEA/GBV, and Child safeguarding Policies at all course and all levels.
• Women and Persons Living with Disability (PLWDs) are strongly advised to apply.