National Individual Consultant

National Individual Consultant : Case Study on the Implementation of the RED Strategy in Urban Districts in South Africa, Pretoria, 8 months (Remote) UNICEF works in over countries and territories to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential, from early childhood through adolescence. At UNICEF, we are committed, passionate, and proud of what we do for as long as we are needed. Promoting the rights of every child is not just a job – it is a calling. Scope of Work Support work under Outcome 1, Child Health and Wellbeing, Output 2, relating to improving the capacity of sub-national institutions and systems to provide comprehensive, coordinated child health services. Under the supervision of the Health Officer, supported by the Social and Behaviour Change Manager, undertake a mixed-method case study on Elma-funded implementation of the RED Strategy with the National Department of Health, the Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape Provincial Departments of Health, and selected district health teams. Explore and describe the operational effectiveness, barriers, facilitators, and outcomes of the RED Strategy implementation in selected urban districts, and generate actionable insights for scaling and strengthening immunisation services. Tasks and Deliverables Inception Phase – Develop a detailed workplan and methodology; conduct initial consultations; submit an inception report. Desk Review – Review existing documentation (RED strategy guidelines, training materials, implementation reports) and analyze DHIS data for comparative assessment of routine immunisation between ELMA and non-ELMA districts. Research Design & Ethics – Prepare a comprehensive research proposal; develop tools (interview guides, consent forms); obtain ethics clearance and administrative approvals. Data Collection – Extract relevant DHIS data; conduct Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and focus group discussions across provincial, district, sub-district, and facility levels. Data Analysis – Analyse comparative data, transcribe and code qualitative information, identify themes, patterns, barriers, and facilitators, and draft preliminary findings. Reporting & Dissemination – Prepare draft report, incorporate feedback, submit final report and presentation materials; publish findings in an academic journal and develop a draft journal article for review. Finalisation – Finalise report, prepare presentation slides, and deliver final report and presentation to UNICEF and stakeholders. Qualifications Advanced degree (Master's or above) in sociology, public health, health systems, anthropology, psychology, communication, development, education, or another relevant field. At least 10 years proven experience and expertise in mixed-method research in South Africa related to public health, health systems strengthening and health workforce capacity strengthening. Previous experience with the EPI Programme, implementation research and case study methodology is advantageous. Strong qualitative and quantitative research skills; ability to conduct interviews, focus group discussions, and analyse DHIS data. English proficiency; knowledge of another local language or another UN language is an asset. Competencies Builds and maintains partnerships. Demonstrates self‑awareness and ethical awareness. Drive to achieve results for impact. Innovates and embraces change. Manages ambiguity and complexity. Thinks and acts strategically. Works collaboratively with others. Equal Opportunity UNICEF encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, religious or ethnic backgrounds, and from people with disabilities, including neurodivergence. UNICEF provides reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment process. If you require any accommodation, please submit your request through the accessibility email button on the UNICEF Careers webpage. UNICEF does not hire candidates who are married to children (persons under 18). UNICEF has a zero‑tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNICEF, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination based on gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background or disabilities. Background checks will be conducted for all selected candidates. Benefits We offer a wide range of benefits including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks, and reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities. #J-18808-Ljbffr