The Programme Associate will support programme design and delivery, financial management and reporting by cooperating partners including CSOs that will participate in the Youth Power Hub. In addition, s/he will support with other project management activities such as monitoring and reporting on activities and results.
Job Summary
- Employer: UNICEF LESOTHO
- Job Type: Temporary
- Location: Maseru, Lesotho
- Category: Project Management
- Closing Date: 2026-10-27
Key Responsibilities
- Support the Social Policy Section by carrying out a range of programme support functions to help implement the Youth Power Hub.
- Work with various state and non-state actors including the Ministry of Gender, Youth, Sports, Culture and Social Development (MoGYSCSD), Ministry of Education and Training (MoET), National Consultative Committee on Migration (NCCM), Diaspora Directorate, Basotho Diaspora Association (BDA), CSOs, the private sector such as telecommunication companies, and various formations of young people.
- Support programme design and delivery, financial management and reporting by cooperating partners including CSOs that will participate in the Youth Power Hub.
- Support with other project management activities such as monitoring and reporting on activities and results.
Requirements
- Completion of secondary education is required, preferably supplemented by technical or university courses related to the work of the organization.
- A minimum of six years of administrative or clerical work experience is required.
- Prior experience in programme support functions is required.
- Relevant experience inaUNsystem agency or organization is considered as an asset.
How to Apply
About the Company
UNICEF Lesotho is the country office of the United Nations Children's Fund, operating within the Kingdom of Lesotho to advance child rights and wellbeing. The organization works across the Mountain Kingdom to improve access to quality education, strengthen healthcare systems including immunization and nutrition programmes, and protect vulnerable children from violence and exploitation. In Lesotho, where children face challenges from poverty, HIV/AIDS, and climate vulnerability, UNICEF partners with government ministries, civil society, and communities to deliver essential services. Its programmes in Lesotho focus on early childhood development, adolescent empowerment, and building resilient social protection systems for the nation's youngest citizens.
For every child in Lesotho
Website: https://www.unicef.org/
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or education do I need to become a Programme Associate at UNICEF Lesotho?
Most Programme Associate roles require a bachelor's degree in social sciences, development studies, public administration, or a related field. Relevant certifications in project management, such as PRINCE2 or PMP, are highly advantageous. UNICEF also values prior experience with UN systems or international NGOs, even if gained through internships or volunteer work.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Programme Associate?
You will coordinate project activities, prepare reports for donors and stakeholders, organize meetings and workshops, and maintain project documentation. The role involves frequent liaison with government ministries, local partners, and community stakeholders across Lesotho. You may also support monitoring and evaluation activities, including field visits to districts like Maseru, Leribe, or Quthing.
How does the local work culture in Lesotho affect this role?
Lesotho's work culture emphasizes respect for hierarchy and relationship-building, so patience and strong interpersonal skills are essential. Meetings often start with formal greetings and may run longer than scheduled, requiring flexibility. Understanding Sesotho customs and being able to communicate in Sesotho, alongside English, significantly strengthens your effectiveness with local partners.
What career progression opportunities exist for Programme Associates in Lesotho?
With experience, you can advance to Programme Officer, Programme Specialist, or Project Coordinator roles within UNICEF or other UN agencies. Many professionals also transition to senior positions with government ministries, international NGOs like WHO or WFP, or development consultancies. Building expertise in areas like education, health, or child protection opens specialized career paths.
What benefits typically come with temporary Programme Associate positions at UNICEF Lesotho?
Temporary contracts usually include pro-rated annual leave, medical insurance coverage, and access to UN pension schemes depending on contract duration. You may also receive daily subsistence allowances for field travel and professional development opportunities. Specific benefits vary by contract type, so review the terms carefully during the offer stage.
How should I apply and what do employers like UNICEF Lesotho look for in candidates?
Apply through the official UNICEF careers portal with a tailored CV highlighting relevant project management experience and UN competency frameworks. Employers prioritize candidates who demonstrate results-based management skills, cultural sensitivity, and knowledge of Lesotho's development challenges. Strong references from previous supervisors and fluency in English and Sesotho significantly strengthen your application.