Program Officer Health System Strengthening job at Makerere University Walter Reed Project (MUWRP)

About the Organization

MUWRP is committed to actively engaging communities at various stages of the research process, from trial protocol development, through implementation, to dissemination of research findings. Scientists are encouraged to participate in engagement activities with the public both inside and outside the research community. Sharing our research work is a crucial part of the MUWRP pillars. MUWRP ensures the community members are informed of the research protocols taking place in their communities.

Job Description

Makerere University Walter Reed Project (MUWRP) is a non-profit biomedical research organization, whose mission is to mitigate disease threats through quality research, health care and disease surveillance. MUWRP was established in 2002 by a Memorandum of Agreement between The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc. (HJF) and Makerere University (Mak) undertake medical research to test HIV vaccines. Over the years, MUWRP's portfolio has progressively expanded to include vaccine research for Ebola and Marburg viruses, Emerging Infectious Diseases Program (EIDP) for surveillance of influenza and influenza-like viruses and other emerging infections in humans and animals; also, a PEPFAR funded program in HIV treatment, care and prevention in the districts of Kayunga, Mukono, Buvuma, Buikwe, Luwero, Nakasongola. Additionally. MUWRP seeks to fill the following position.
Contract Tenure: 1 year with a possibility of extension subject to the needs of the Organization

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Duties and Responsibilities

Program Design and Implementation

Needs Assessment: Conducting assessments to identify weaknesses and gaps in existing health systems.
Strategic Planning: Developing strategic plans to strengthen health system components, including workforce, service delivery, health information systems, and financing.
Project Management: Overseeing the implementation of health system strengthening initiatives, ensuring they are completed on time, within scope, and on budget.
Technical Support: Providing technical assistance and guidance to local health authorities and partner organizations.

Capacity Building

Training Programs: Designing and facilitating training programs to build the capacity of healthcare workers and health system managers.
Workshops and Seminars: Organizing workshops, seminars, and other educational activities to disseminate best practices in health system strengthening.

Monitoring and Evaluation

Framework Development: Developing monitoring and evaluation frameworks to assess the impact and effectiveness of HSS interventions.
Data Collection: Collecting and analyzing data to measure progress, identify challenges, and inform program adjustments.
Reporting: Preparing detailed reports and presentations on program outcomes and impact for stakeholders and funders.

Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy

Collaboration: Building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, donors, and community groups.
Advocacy: Advocating for policies and practices that support health system strengthening at local, national, and international levels.
Communication: Communicating program goals, progress, and outcomes to stakeholders through meetings, reports, and presentations.

Resource Mobilization

Funding Proposals: Writing and submitting funding proposals to secure financial support for HSS initiatives.
Budget Management: Managing program budgets, ensuring efficient use of resources, and reporting on financial performance.

Qualification, Experiences and Competencies

Educational Requirements

Advanced Degree: A master’s degree in public health, health administration, international development, or a related field. A Ph.D. may be preferred for senior roles.
Specialized Training: Additional training or certification in health system strengthening, global health, or health policy is advantageous.

Professional Experience

Relevant Experience: Several years of experience in health system strengthening, public health, health policy, or a related field.
Project Management: Proven experience in managing health projects or programs, particularly in low-resource settings.
Field Experience: Experience working in the field with health systems, preferably in developing countries or with international organizations.

Skills and Competencies

Technical Expertise: Strong understanding of health systems, including workforce development, health financing, health information systems, service delivery, and governance.
Analytical Skills: Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to assess health systems and develop effective interventions.
Communication Skills: Outstanding written and verbal communication skills for writing reports, creating presentations, and engaging with stakeholders.
Training and Facilitation: Ability to design and deliver training programs and facilitate workshops.
Project Management: Proficiency in project management, including planning, budgeting, monitoring, and evaluation.

Personal Attributes

Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing environments and emerging health challenges.
Leadership: Strong leadership and team-building skills to lead projects and collaborate with diverse teams.
Initiative: Proactive approach to identifying opportunities for health system improvements and driving initiatives forward.
Cultural Sensitivity: Awareness and sensitivity to cultural differences and the ability to work effectively in diverse settings.

Knowledge Areas

Health Systems: In-depth knowledge of health system components and the factors that influence their performance.
Global Health: Understanding of global health issues, trends, and best practices in health system strengthening.
Policy and Regulation: Familiarity with health policies, regulatory frameworks, and governance structures.