International Consultant - Field Epidemiology Training Programmes (FETPs)

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1. Area of expertise :

International Consultant - Field Epidemiology Training Programmes (FETPs)

2. Purpose of consultancy

The consultant is expected to work with WHE/ISO to provide specialized technical support to WHO EMRO for strengthening the quality, implementation and sustainability of FETPs across the Eastern Mediterranean Region

3. Background

Field Epidemiology Training Programmes (FETPs) are an important mechanism for strengthening national and regional capacities for surveillance, outbreak investigation, risk assessment, and response to public health emergencies. Through competency-based and field-oriented training, FETPs contribute to developing a sustainable public health workforce capable of detecting and responding to emerging and ongoing health threats.

The WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (WHO EMRO) is supporting Member States to establish, strengthen and institutionalize FETPs according to national needs and public health priorities. This includes technical support to newly established and evolving programmes, including those in Syria and Kuwait, as well as other countries requesting assistance.

At the regional level, WHO EMRO is also working towards the establishment of a Regional Advanced FETP to strengthen advanced epidemiological competencies and develop a cadre of public health professionals capable of addressing complex, cross-border and regional public health threats.

To ensure programme quality and sustainability, there is also a need for a standardized approach to assess FETP implementation, performance and institutionalization and to identify areas requiring improvement.

WHO EMRO therefore seeks the services of a consultant to support the development and piloting of an FETP programme assessment tool; provide technical assistance for the establishment and implementation of FETPs in countries; and support the design and establishment of the Regional Advanced FETP.

4. Deliverables

a. Output 1: Develop and Launch a Pilot for an FETP Programme Assessment Tool

• Deliverable 1.1: Conduct a desk review of existing FETP assessment frameworks, standards and relevant tools developed by WHO and other recognized technical partners.
• Deliverable 1.2: Develop a standardized and adaptable FETP programme assessment tool covering key programme components,
• Deliverable 1.3: Validate and examine the assessment tool in one selected country.

· Deliverable 1.4: Prepare a final pilot assessment report, including recommendations and proposed next steps for broader regional application.

b. Output 2: Provide Technical Support to Country FETPs

• Deliverable 2.1: Provide technical support to program implementation in selected countries.
• Deliverable 2.2: Provide technical support to the development and strengthening of mentorship systems.
• Deliverable 2.3: Facilitate or co-facilitate FETP workshops, mentorship training and other capacity-building activities.

c. Output 3: Establish the Regional Advanced FETP

• Deliverable 3.1: Lead a consultative dialoge with partners, national FETP program managers and Academia to develop Regional advanced FETP program.
• Deliverable 3.2: Support the development of the overall programme plan including framework, objectives and implementation approach.
• Deliverable 3.3 Provide documentation for the progress of the consultative dialogue.

5. Qualifications, experience, skills and languages

- Qualifications required:

Essential: An advanced university degree (Master’s level or above) in epidemiology, public health or in a related field from a recognized institution

Desirable: Specialized training in field epidemiology, specialized training in emergency/humanitarian response

- Experience required:

Essential: from 5 to 10 years of experience in communicable disease surveillance and response to outbreaks/emergencies

Desirable: Previous work experience with WHO

- Skills / Technical skills and knowledge:

- Good knowledge of WHO mandate and goals and the UN programs;

- Proven ability to communicate effectively. Excellent communication and writing skills;

- Ability to work effectively in a cross-cultural and multi-disciplinary environment;

- Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work under pressure.

- Tact, discretion and diplomacy

- Language requirements:

Essential: Expert knowledge of English

6. Location

The consultant is expected to work remotely (off site).

7. Travel

Selected consultant may be deployed for surge in any EMR countries for outbreak response to support on the ISO work (as written on Work to be performed).

8. Remuneration and budget (travel costs are excluded):

a.