Mission and objectives

The mission of WHO in Myanmar is the attainment of the highest possible level of health by the people of Myanmar. In order to provide effective support, the WHO country office leverages the three levels of the Organization: to focus support where it can make a difference; to place the right people in the right places; to engage partners effectively; to enhance communications, and to improve operational intelligence. Priorities of WHO WHO’s general programme of work (GPW) sets medium-term priorities and strategies of the Organization. The World Health Assembly in May 2018 is expected to approve the 13th general programme of work, covering the period 2019–2023. It encompasses a set of three interconnected strategic priorities, strategic shifts and organizational shifts, as well as 10 outcomes to ensure healthy lives and promote wellbeing for all at all ages. The three strategic priorities are: Universal health coverage: 1 billion more people benefitting from universal health coverage Health emergencies: 1 billion more people better protected from health emergencies Healthier populations: 1 billion more people enjoying better health and well-being Additional Information WHO is committed to workforce diversity. WHO's workforce adheres to the WHO Values Charter and is committed to put the WHO Values into practice. WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of any form of tobacco.

Context

The UNV assignment will be part of the Health Cluster, which is led by WHO, and UNFPA, as part of the broader Humanitarian Structure.

Task Description

Within the delegated authority and under the supervision of the Myanmar Health Cluster Coordinator and in close collaboration with WHO HQ Quality Experts, the incumbent will: Conduct a Medical Products Market Assessment focusing on Supplier Validation to identify reliable suppliers selling medical products in line with international standards including Good Manufacturing Practices, Certificate of Origin, Good Distribution Practice, document quality, traceability, responsiveness, previous performance, etc. Coordinate with health partners on selection of reliable suppliers based on rating system, providing improvement recommendations to suppliers. Provide technical advice on quality control and assurance systems for procurement, supply chain management, distribution and storage, including cold storage, of medical products and issues related to access of quality-assured medical products, market intelligence, pricing and the appropriate use of medical products at the various health care levels. Train health partners in quality assurance tools and checklists for locally procured pharmaceuticals to mitigate the risks of poor-quality medicines and AMR. Promote best practices for maintaining quality during storage and transport of medical products, including cold chain medicines, to prevent degradation and contamination, through the training of relevant staff. Deliver technical support to UNFPA and its Implementing Partners by participating in Technical Evaluation Committees for the procurement of pharmaceuticals and/or medical devices, ensuring that all technical documents (including Certificates of Analysis, GMP certificates, and related records) submitted by suppliers, manufacturers, or internal laboratories comply with regulatory, quality, and technical standards prior to product release or utilization.

Competencies and values

• Professionalism • Integrity • Teamwork and respect for diversity • Commitment to continuous learning • Planning and organizing • Communication • Flexibility

Living conditions and remarks

Myanmar, officially the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, is a sovereign state in Southeast Asia bordered by Bangladesh, India, China, Laos and Thailand. One-third of Burma's total perimeter of 1,930 km (1,200 miles) forms an uninterrupted coastline along the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea. The country has an estimated population of 51 million people. Myanmar's capital city is Naypyidaw and its largest city is Yangon. The country is ethnically diverse. The government recognizes 135 distinct ethnic groups but the Bamar form an estimated 68% of the population. Temperatures in Myanmar can vary from place to place. In general, the Myanmar climate is hot throughout the year, with temperatures averaging 27 degrees Celsius or 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The months of March, April, and May the weather in Myanmar can be very hot and humid, especially around the coastal regions. This increase in temperature is caused by the onset of the rainy season. Despite the hot temperatures, there are areas that can be quite pleasant. The interior areas such as Inle Lake and Bagan can be quite a bit cooler than the coastal regions. The mountainous areas can also be cooler as they have a much higher altitude. Yangon is the busiest and most populous city in Myanmar. Yangon served as the capital of Myanmar until 2006, when the military government relocated the capital to the purpose-built city of Nay Pyi Taw in central Myanmar. With over 7 million people, Yangon is Myanmar's largest city and its most important commercial center. Yangon boasts of all modern amenities, malls, hotels, cafes and a well-served international/domestic airport.