Mission and objectives
WHO Country Office Kuwait inaugurated in June 2021 is mandated to support the Ministry of Health and other national institutions in meeting the targets of the Sustainable Development Goal 3 aiming to improve health and well-being for all at all ages. The CO is engaged in supporting country partners with technical assistance in specialized health topics in accordance with country support plans developed in partnership with the Ministry of Health. Additional areas of support include the implementation of capacity-building initiatives, multisectoral action plans, and the establishment of platforms to meet advocacy goals and forge dialogue around health issues of national priority with consideration to the UN guiding principles of inclusivity, equity, gender equality, respect, and dignity for all.Context
WHO Kuwait seeks an onsite UNV to support the technical programme lead in ongoing public health projects with a specific focus on the WHO EMRO Regional flagship initiative 3: Accelerating public health action on substance use and strengthening the national response to substance use. Stakeholders primarily include technical units at the Ministry of Health, Kuwait. Other areas of public health priority include providing technical assistance and dissemination of organizational public health goods on the areas of primary health care, universal health coverage, antimicrobial resistance, health workforce, emergency preparedness and response and non-communicable disease. * This assignment is part of a UNV-funded initiative designed to bring fresh, diverse talent into UN programmes from countries that are currently unrepresented among UN Volunteers. It offers a unique opportunity to help ensure that global volunteering truly reflects the world we serve, while giving participating UN Volunteers meaningful, hands on experience with leading UN partners. As such, the initiative targets candidates from the following nationalities: Andorra, Croatia, Estonia, Liechtenstein, Malta, Monaco, San Marino, SloveniaTask Description
Under the direct supervision of the ​Public Health Officer​ the UN Volunteer will: 1- Attend and actively participate in technical meetings, taking notes and assisting with coordination. 2- Support activities related to health systems and health promotion, including reviewing background documents and participating in discussions on non-communicable disease with a focus on substance use, social determinants of health, antimicrobial resistance and emergency response, as part of on-the-job learning. 3- Support engagement and coordination with national counterparts, UN agencies, academic institutions, and relevant stakeholders 4- Attend and actively participate in technical meetings, taking notes and assisting with coordination. 5- Assist in developing knowledge products—such as presentations, briefs, and reports—for internal and external audiences, with guidance from Public Health Officer. 6- Assist in collecting, organizing, and conducting basic analysis and research activities related to public health priorities through desk review and consultative processes. 7- Support coordination of technical assistance activities and correspondences with MOH focal points across various public health disciplines 8- Assist in monitoring implementation progress and compiling/archiving programme updates, dashboards, and technical reports 9- Join selected field visits to observe program implementation and contribute to capturing lessons learned, innovations, and best practices. 10- Support the preparation and review of planning documents and project concept notes. 11- Contribute to public health advocacy and communication materials in alignment with WHO technical guidance. 12- Support coordination of technical assistance activities with MOH focal points across various public health disciplines. 13- Assist in drafting strategic and advocacy documents related to public health priorities. 14- Work with Country Office team in developing initiatives to improve population health.Competencies and values
Demonstrates professionalism, integrity, and accountability in the delivery of assigned responsibilities. Ability to plan, prioritize, and organize work effectively to achieve results within deadlines. Strong analytical skills analysis, with the ability to interpret complex data and information from multiple sources Demonstrates adaptability and flexibility in responding to evolving programme needs and operational environments. Ability to work collaboratively and respectfully within multicultural and multidisciplinary teams. Shows initiative, creativity, and a solution-oriented approach to public health challenges. Demonstrates strong self-management, reliability, and ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Commitment to the values and principles of the United Nations, including respect for diversity and inclusion.Living conditions and remarks
Kuwait offers a modern and comfortable living environment with a high standard of infrastructure, healthcare, and education. The country experiences a desert climate, with very hot summers (May to September) where temperatures can exceed 45°C, and mild, pleasant winters (November to March). English is widely spoken, and expatriates will find a range of international schools, shopping centers, and recreational facilities. Housing options vary from apartments to villas. The Kuwaiti dinar is a highly valued currency in the world, the population of citizens and residents enjoy a tax-free income with access to subsidised energy resources and affordable food options. While Kuwait has a conservative culture, it is welcoming to foreigners, and expatriate communities are well-established. Overall, Kuwait provides a safe and convenient lifestyle for those relocating for work. International UN Specialist Volunteers in Saudi Arabia are entitled to: – Monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) at the amount of USD 2,912.61 – Annual and learning leaves; – Entry lump sum USD 3500 – Free Medical and life insurance; – Family allowance; $250 per month for one dependent. $450 per month for two or more dependents – Free access to different learning platforms Safety and Security: Transportation and housing: Taxis as well as ride-hailing services (Careem and other local services) are abundant and affordable. Personal cars are the most common form of public transport. Housing is readily available with rents for one- to two-bedroom apartments ranging between 250 to 500 KWD depending on the location. Health Services: Medical facilities are generally very good in the public and private sector with modern, and well-equipped facilities. All doctors and medical personnel speak English. Language: The official language of Kuwait is Arabic, but English is widely spoken.
