Mission and objectives

The fundamental mission of UNICEF is to promote the rights of every child, everywhere, in everything the organization does — in programs, in advocacy and in operations. The equity strategy, emphasizing the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families, translates this commitment to children’s rights into action. For UNICEF, equity means that all children have an opportunity to survive, develop and reach their full potential, without discrimination, bias or favoritism. To the degree that any child has an unequal chance in life — in its social, political, economic, civic and cultural dimensions — her or his rights are violated. There is growing evidence that investing in the health, education and protection of a society’s most disadvantaged citizens — addressing inequity — not only will give all children the opportunity to fulfill their potential but also will lead to sustained growth and stability of countries. This is why the focus on equity is so vital. It accelerates progress towards realizing the human rights of all children, which is the universal mandate of UNICEF, as outlined by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, while also supporting the equitable development of nations.

Context

UNICEF’s Youth4Water Plus seeks Online Volunteer to support Odisha-focused WASH-CCES initiatives. The Online Volunteer will strengthen programme delivery and youth engagement by providing documentation support - Support in drafting reports, proposals and donor briefs - Conduct desk research on Youth4Water Plus and programme priorities; and synthesize evidence to prepare clear write-ups. - Expected results include 1-2 donor briefs and reports per month. The volunteer will work remotely, collaborate with UNICEF staff and partners, meet deadlines, attend briefings, and submit deliverables. Training, mentorship, certificates and recognition will be provided.

Task Description

Since 2019, Youth4Water Plus has been working on youth-led action for water security, WASH, climate resilience, and environmental stewardship across Odisha. Its current themes include water conservation, biodiversity conservation, disaster risk resilience, renewable energy, responsible consumption and green skilling & entrepreneurship. Flagship programmes such as Odisha Conference Of Youth, Young Climate Leaders Action Project and Youth Entrepreneurship nurture young leaders, incubate local solutions and link youth to livelihood opportunities. The campaign supports key government departments to disseminate WASH and climate initiatives — including Swachhata Hi Seva, Swachhata Pakhwada, 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' and 'Meri Life' — through campaigns, training and joint events. To date Youth4Water Plus has engaged over 5,00,000 youth across urban and rural Odisha, maintains a strong social media presence, and collaborates with 50+ partners spanning UN agencies, civil society organisations, government departments and international partners. Volunteers will amplify outreach, facilitate local mobilisation, document youth actions, assist monitoring and strengthen partner coordination to scale impact and sustain youth engagement at community and policy levels.

Competencies and values

Living conditions and remarks