Child Protection Officers at Global Village Healthcare Initiative for Africa (GHIV Africa) - Borno & Yobe

Global Village Healthcare Initiative for Africa (GHIV Africa) is a Non-governmental, Non-for profit humanitarian/Developmental organization which started in 2014. We deliver assistance to affected populations before, during and after crisis situations. GHIV Africa was founded to mitigate the health deficit in Africa and to provide all forms of assistance leading to improved quality of life.

The organization is equally poised to support the delivery of healthcare services at the doorsteps of every African village by bridging the gap between primary health care delivery and tertiary health care services through a robust referral system. We offer assistance in need to the most vulnerable population regardless of their religion, race, gender and or political affiliation. Our decisions as an organization are not based on political, economic or religious interest but solely on needs of the affected population.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

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.