Stretch Assignment: Three months, Banjul, The Gambia (Onsite)
Title: Programme Associate
Level: GS6 – we encourage staff from all levels with the relevant experience to apply
Reports to: Deputy Representative
Duration: 3 months
Section: Programme Section, Division/Office
Location: BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
Dates/Duration: Stretch assignment from 15th October 2025 until 14th January 2026.
Eligibility: All Fixed-Term, Permanent or continuing appointment UNICEF staff members currently working in UNICEF worldwide.
Background
The Gambia is one of the smallest countries in West Africa, with an estimated population of 2.4 million according to the 2024 population and housing census. The country has a youthful population with 53.4% of the Gambian population under 19 years old. The Gambia is ranked 174 out of 191 countries on the Human Development Index and is among the African countries where children and adolescents are most exposed to the risks of climate change.
UNICEF Gambia Country Office is currently the second year of implementation of its Country Programme 2024 – 2028 aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF 2024 -2028) and the National Development Plan (2023 – 2027). The Country Programme is built around four programme components: 1) Child survival and Development; 2) Education; 3) Child Protection and 4) Social Policy with Programme Effectiveness as cross-cutting. A strong focus is put on systems strengthening, child rights, adolescents’ programming, gender and data and evidence generation.
Purpose of the Position
Under the supervision and guidance of the Deputy Representative, the Programme Associate supports the Country Office by ensuring effective and timely delivery that is consistent with UNICEF rules and regulations, providing regular feedback on the status of programmes through monitoring milestones and advising on improvements to keep activities on track.
S/He is accountable for the full spectrum of administrative and programme support activities. The key results have an impact on the overall performance of the Country Office and success in the implementation of project/programme activities. Accurate programme monitoring and recommendations, data entry and presentation of information to ensure proper programme decision-making.
Duration
This stretch assignment will be for a period of three (3) months.
Key expected results
The Programme Associate works in close collaboration with a range of staff in the CO, external partners, and agency counterparts in support of programme design and delivery. S/He ensures regular feedback on the status of projects through monitoring milestones and advises on improvements to keep activities on track.
Minimum Qualifications and Competencies
- Completion of secondary education is required, preferably supplemented by technical or university courses related to the work of the organization.
- A minimum of 5 years of Programme Associate experience is required.
- Prior experience in programme support functions is required.
For more information on the stretch assignment, please follow this link Stretch Assignment - Programme Associate GS6.docx
Funding arrangement
This is a temporary development opportunity and there will be no changes to the staff member’s status (position number, level, etc.).
The Office will cover the ticket for economy class travel and 100% of the UN DSA rate during the first 30 days, and 50% DSA for the remaining time.
Interested UNICEF staff should discuss this opportunity with their supervisor and seek the approval of their management before applying.
Candidates considered potentially well-matched for the stretch assignment will be contacted for an informal interview. Supervisors may also be contacted for references.
