UNICEF works in over 190 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.

UNICEF is a place where careers are built. We offer our staff diverse opportunities for professional and personal development that will help them reinforce a sense of purpose while serving children and communities across the world. We welcome everyone who wants to belong and grow in a diverse and passionate culture., coupled with an attractive compensation and benefits package.

Visit our website to learn more about what we do at UNICEF.

For every child, rights 

UNICEF works to protect the rights of every child in Sri Lanka. Our goal is to ensure that all of our children survive, thrive and fulfill their vast potential.

In a world that is rapidly changing, children are faced with complex challenges and unprecedented opportunities. UNICEF’s programs are designed to reach and benefit all children so that they can withstand these challenges, leverage these opportunities and be the drivers of their own destiny.

UNICEF is committed to creating a country in which every child is free to learn, play and grow. Our programs work towards providing all children in Sri Lanka with shelter, nutrition, protection and education, wherever they may be. We strive to create communities in which children can live with dignity and hope, free from discrimination, violence and fear.

We make every effort to create and maintain environments that will enable and empower children to be the very best that they can be.

In this way, all children will not only benefit from economic and social growth but will become the driving force behind sustainable national development.

For over 50 years, with the help of our vast network of partners, UNICEF has made significant strides in raising health, education and protection standards for children in Sri Lanka. From achieving Universal Child Immunization (1989) to establishing The National Child Protection Authority (1998) to providing decades of crucial relief in the wake of devastating conflict and natural disaster, UNICEF has played a pivotal role in creating an environment in which children have the best chance to survive and thrive.

Yet, many challenges still exist, especially for the most vulnerable. Some national and regional bodies require resources and reinvigoration. Individuals and institutions need to be strengthened, coordinated and aligned with global standards so that children enjoy support in their schools, communities and homes to help them overcome challenges and unleash their full potential into the world.

Due to our long-standing reputation as an experienced, neutral and collaborative partner, UNICEF is ideally suited to drive these efforts. Our history of success in Sri Lanka is built on our ability to tap into a wide network of national and international partners which, in turn, is bolstered by our own far-reaching presence in the field. In working closely with these government, non-government and private entities, UNICEF takes a leadership role, drawing on our technical expertise to accurately assess existing challenges and develop, execute and coordinate solutions that are relevant and scalable on the ground.  For more information about UNICEF Sri Lanka and its work visit: http://www.unicef.org/srilanka

 

How can you make a difference? 

Purpose of Activity/Assignment:

The International Health Regulations (IHR) are the primary global instrument for preventing, detecting and responding to public health events. Developing first responder capabilities and providing first aid training to the public are crucial for building health emergency response and resilience. This approach empowers communities to act as a vital first line of defense during a crisis at the local level.

To address this need the injury prevention and management unit of the Directorate of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD), as the national focal point for injury prevention and management in the Ministry of Health (MoH), is responsible for providing technical leadership and implementation support for creating a comprehensive and sustainable first aid program through developing standardized guidelines and training materials to establish a dedicated pool of trainers at each level and conducting extensive first aid training for key community groups and the first responders.

This initiative aligns with national emergency preparedness and response priorities, specifically strengthening capacity for Basic Life Support, early detection, and localized response. It falls under the scope of the Pandemic Fund with UNICEF serving as the designated implementing entity providing financial support for this national endeavor.

As the initial step of this initiative, the directorate of NCD of the Ministry of Health has developed comprehensive National first aid guidelines. This document is essential for training first responders and the public, aligning with a whole-of-society approach to community resilience.

To move this initiative forward, the directorate of NCD and the Technical Working Group (TWG) for post event care established under the Directorate has decided to recruit a national specialist to develop Basic First Aid training package based on the National first aid guidelines, Sri Lanka. Which includes design and develops a full set of training modules, presentations, trainer guide, and a comprehensive curriculum. Training package ensures standardized delivery by building core training teams and implementing a community-led approach for a comprehensive roll-out across all 26 health districts.

Scope of Work:

Goal and Objective:

Develop a nationwide first aid training program by aligning 12 learning modules with Sri Lanka's national first aid guidelines including a standardized guide for trainers and an assessment package.

Specific objectives

Transform each chapter of the national first aid guideline into a standalone, competency-based learning module that integrates theoretical instruction, practical application, and performance-based assessment.

2. Develop a comprehensive trainer guide that standardizes teaching methods, timing, and skills to ensure uniform training quality across all districts.

3. Develop training materials for trainees and trainers, including slide deck, handouts, practical exercises, pre- and post-tests, and evaluation forms for each module.

4. Facilitate the Training of Trainers (ToTs) through technical guidance

The consultant will be responsible for the following key tasks:

The consultant will be expected to work in close collaboration with the Technical Working Group (TWG) of the Ministry of Health under this task. The TWG, which is chaired by the Director, Non-Communicable Diseases, includes key stakeholders from Ministry of Health, specialists from relevant professional colleges, first aid training organizations, Suwa Seriya Ambulance services, representatives from WHO and UNICEF. The consultant expected to collaborate with the National Programme Manager (Injury Prevention and Management), NCD unit. This collaboration is desirable for incorporating diverse perspectives and ensuring a comprehensive approach to the development and updating of the trainer guide and training package.

Scope of the work

The selected national consultant will undertake the following key tasks,

4.1 Desk review and inception report

• Refer to the National First Aid Guideline and relevant international first aid guidelines to inform training methods, while ensuring all technical content remains aligned to the national first aid guideline.

• Submit an inception report with a detailed workplan, a module template, and a chapter-to-module mapping matrix.

4.2 Curriculum design and module structure

• Confirm the training approach and structure, including recommended duration and delivery options.

• Define learning outcomes for each module and map them to knowledge and skills.

• Define skills practice requirements, trainer demonstrations, and minimum practice time.

4.3 Develop 12 module packages (one module per chapter in the national first aid guideline)

For each of the 12 modules, develop a complete package that includes:

• Module overview, target audience, prerequisites, and session duration.
• Learning outcomes written in measurable terms.
• Session plan with timings, methods, and required materials.
• Technical content aligned to the relevant chapter of the national first aid guideline.
• Practical exercises and skills steps, with a skills checklist for assessment.
• Scenarios for local context.
• Pre- and post-test items with answer keys.
• Training evaluation form and facilitator observation notes.

4.4 Develop the trainer guide

• Develop a detailed trainer guide that explains, for each module:
• Session objectives, facilitation steps, timing, and training methods.
• How to run skills practice safely, including common errors and how to correct them.
• Required resources and set-up.
• How to conduct assessments and record results.

4.5 Quality assurance

• Submit drafts in agreed format.
• Revise all materials based on consolidated feedback given by the directorate of NCD and the panel of experts selected by the directorate.
• Ensure consistent terminology, formatting, and level of detail across all modules.

4.6 Training of Trainers (ToT) technical support

• Support and facilitate ToT sessions as a resource person for master trainers, as requested by the directorate of NCD.
• Submit a short report after each ToT, including recommendations for roll-out.

The consultant will be expected to deliver the following:

• Inception report and detailed workplan, including content outline, module template, and mapping matrix.
• Draft set of 12 module packages aligned to the 12 chapters (slides, practical exercises, assessments, evaluation forms).
• Need to adhere to the following structure for each module and also can slightly modify it accordingly. Suggested structure for each module: Module title and linked chapter reference, learning outcomes, session plan with timings, technical content and key messages, skills practice steps and skills checklist, scenarios and practice activities, trainer notes and common errors, knowledge test items and answer key, module evaluation form.
• Develop training materials for trainees and trainers, including slides, practical exercises, pre- and post-tests, and evaluation forms for each module
• Draft trainer guide covering all 12 modules.
• Final set of 12 module packages and trainer guide in English, incorporating feedback of the directorate of the NCD, Ministry of Health and the panel of experts selected by the directorate of NCD, Ministry of Health
• ToT reports (as applicable), including recommendations for national roll-out.
• Regular progress updates and presentations to the directorate of the NCD, Ministry of Health and the panel of experts selected by the directorate of NCD, Ministry of Health

Deliverable formats

• Editable formats: Microsoft PowerPoint for slides, Microsoft Word for trainer guide and assessment tools.
• PDF copies for final versions.
• Clear file naming and version control (Module 01 to Module 12).

 

Quality and acceptance criteria

Deliverables will be accepted when:

•Each module matches the relevant guideline chapter and does not contradict national guidance.

•All 12 chapters are covered through 12 complete module packages.

•Each module includes a teaching plan, skills practice, and assessment tools.

•The trainer guide enables consistent delivery by different trainers.

•All feedback needs to be addressed and incorporated into the final package, raised by the national programme manager, injury prevention and management unit of the directorate of the NCD and the panel of experts selected by the directorate of NCD, Ministry of Health.

Duration : 40 days

Duty station : Colombo, Sri Lanka ( home base)

To qualify as an advocate for every child you will have… 

Minimum requirements:

Minimum Qualifications required:

PHD - Public Health, Obstetrics, Child Health

Experience/ Knowledge/Expertise/Skills required:

• Medical degree with postgraduate qualifications in clinical medicine (adult or paediatrics), emergency medicine, intensive care and anaesthesiology, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in developing curricula or training modules.
• Fluency in written and spoken English and at least one local language (Sinhala and/or Tamil).
• Strong communication and collaboration skills to work with multidisciplinary teams, including Ministry of Health officials.
• Having supportive working environment for development of curricula and training modules.
• Prior working experience with the Ministry of Health will be considered as an added advantage.
• Strong presentation and facilitation skills

 

How to apply:

Qualified candidates are requested to submit a resume and other relevant documents

Please complete your profile in UNICEF's e-Recruitment system.

Please indicate your ability, availability and fee/rate in LKR to undertake the terms of reference above. (Indicate an all-inclusive fee (including lump sum travel, IT accessories, Internet and subsistence costs, as applicable) to undertake the tasks in the Terms of reference. Office 365 license will be provided by UNICEF, as applicable) 

Applications submitted without a fee/rate will not be considered 

 

For every Child, you demonstrate...

UNICEF’s Core Values of Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust and Accountability and Sustainability (CRITAS) underpin everything we do and how we do it. Get acquainted with Our Values Charter: UNICEF Values

The UNICEF competencies required for this post are…

(1) Builds and maintains partnerships

(2) Demonstrates self-awareness and ethical awareness

(3) Drive to achieve results for impact

(4) Innovates and embraces change

(5) Manages ambiguity and complexity

(6) Thinks and acts strategically

(7) Works collaboratively with others 

 

Familiarize yourself with our competency framework and its different levels.

 

UNICEF promotes and advocates for the protection of the rights of every child, everywhere, in everything it does and is mandated to support the realization of the rights of every child, including those most disadvantaged, and our global workforce must reflect the diversity of those children. The UNICEF family is committed to include everyone, irrespective of their race/ethnicity, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, socio-economic background, minority, or any other status.

UNICEF encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, religious or ethnic backgrounds, and from people with disabilities, including neurodivergence. We offer a wide range of benefits to our staff, including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks and reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities. 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 Accessibility | UNICEF. Should you be shortlisted, please get in touch with the recruiter directly to share further details, enabling us to make the necessary arrangements in advance.

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. UNICEF is committed to promote the protection and safeguarding of all children. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles. Background checks will include the verification of academic credential(s) and employment history. Selected candidates may be required to provide additional information to conduct a background check, and selected candidates with disabilities may be requested to submit supporting documentation in relation to their disability confidentially.

UNICEF appointments are subject to medical clearance.  Issuance of a visa by the host country of the duty station is required for IP positions and will be facilitated by UNICEF. Appointments may also be subject to inoculation (vaccination) requirements, including against SARS-CoV-2 (Covid). Should you be selected for a position with UNICEF, you either must be inoculated as required or receive a medical exemption from the relevant department of the UN. Otherwise, the selection will be canceled.

Remarks:  

As per Article 101, paragraph 3, of the Charter of the United Nations, the paramount consideration in the employment of the staff is the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity.

UNICEF is committed to fostering an inclusive, representative, and welcoming workforce. For this position, eligible and suitable  candidates are encouraged to apply.

Government employees who are considered for employment with UNICEF are normally required to resign from their government positions before taking up an assignment with UNICEF. UNICEF reserves the right to withdraw an offer of appointment, without compensation, if a visa or medical clearance is not obtained, or necessary inoculation requirements are not met, within a reasonable period for any reason. 

UNICEF does not charge a processing fee at any stage of its recruitment, selection, and hiring processes (i.e., application stage, interview stage, validation stage, or appointment and training). UNICEF will not ask for applicants’ bank account information.

Humanitarian action is a cross-cutting priority within UNICEF’s Strategic Plan. UNICEF is committed to stay and deliver in humanitarian contexts. Therefore, all staff, at all levels across all functional areas, can be called upon to be deployed to support humanitarian response, contributing to both strengthening resilience of communities and capacity of national authorities.

All UNICEF positions are advertised, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process. An internal candidate performing at the level of the post in the relevant functional area, or an internal/external candidate in the corresponding Talent Group, may be selected, if suitable for the post, without assessment of other candidates.

If you think this position might be for you, please take the time to review our Country Office Mutual Agreements before you apply.

If you believe you can be a team member that can uphold these everyday, then we look forward to receiving and reviewing your application.

Additional information about working for UNICEF can be found here.