Background
As part of the vision for strengthening surveillance capacity in Papua New Guinea, the Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETPNG) plans to implement the frontline field epidemiology training program in 2022 (FETP-frontline). The frontline program is a 3-month training program targeted at individuals working at the frontline response in health. In the context of PNG the program aims to strengthen surveillance skills in the frontline workforce at the District level.
The program schedule includes an initial 5-day workshop focussed on basic epidemiological principles and disease surveillance. Participants return to their workplace for 5 weeks where they are expected to review and report on surveillance data, producing a weekly surveillance report. Participants are also expected to conduct a data quality audit on a disease of their choice.
During the 2nd 5-day workshop participants learn how to conduct field investigations and are introduced to the steps in an outbreak investigation. They return to their workplace for a further 5 weeks where they are expected to participate in two out of the following four activities; a field investigation, an outbreak investigation, development of an expanded surveillance report or complete an analysis of surveillance quality with appropriate recommendations. Technical guidance will be provided throughout by FETPNG faculty and FETPNG graduates.
With support from the National Department of Health (NDoH) it is envisaged each Provincial Health Authority (PHA) will establish and implement the FETP-frontline program drawing on FETPNG graduates at the provincial and district levels as mentors and trainers.
Throughout 2021 the preparatory work will be conducted including engagement with PHAs, evaluation of other models that have been implemented a the provincial level (such as that in Eastern Highlands), mapping FETPNG graduates and capacity to mentor, planning for professional development in adult learning and mentorship for PHA trainers, sensitisation workshops with PHAs on FETPNG and ways to support the application of graduate knowledge and skills to strengthen provincial surveillance and response. The FETP-frontline program will be piloted in a select number of PHAs in 2022.
This position is a full-time position.
Description of duties
In close collaboration with the National Department of Health (NDoH) Surveillance Emergency Response (SER) and under direct supervision of the SAFETYNET Team Coordinator (Outbreaks and Health Emergencies) and overall guidance for the SAFETYNET Representative, the FETP-frontline coordinator will carry out specific duties as below:
Main purpose of this role
The coordinator of the FETP-frontline activities will work in close collaboration with the PHAs to develop a model at the provincial level for implementing the FETP-frontline training program. The FETP-frontline coordinator will play a major role in the program design, training of trainers, implementation, monitoring and evaluation. The FETP-frontline co-ordinator will work with the FETPNG team to support other FETPNG related activities including the intermediate and advanced training programs.
Governance duties and responsibilities
Lead the engagement process with PHAs
Liaise with external and bilateral partners to co-ordinate activities that are related to the FETP-frontline program
Coordinate FETP-frontline activities with the FETPNG management team
Technical duties and responsibilities
Lead the design and implementation of the FETP-frontline program
Support the PHA to develop guiding documents for the implementation of the FETP-frontline program
Support the review of the FETP-frontline curriculum to ensure it is tailored to the PNG context
Lead the monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) for the FETP-frontline program
Provide technical support to FETPNG faculty
Provide ongoing support for the mentorship and supervision of fellows.
Administration duties
Writing and submitting grant applications to funding bodies.
With the Program Director, prepare and submit operational reports to internal and external stakeholders, including potential donors or funding agencies.
Conduct monitoring and evaluation of the FETP-frontline program
Support a culture of continuous quality improvement within the program through liaising with PHAs, trainees and mentors.
External Responsibilities
Reporting to the NDoH SER Program Manager, and as required, the incumbent will promote communication and collaboration of projects and indvidiuals between FETP faculty, fellows, PHAs and the District public health community
Education Qualifications
Relevant degree in the human, animal or environmental health sector
Experience
A minimum of 5 years’ experience in public health in Papua New Guinea, including program management, monitoring and evaluation.
A minimum of 2 years’ experience in developing and delivering training within the health sector
Highly developed organisational skills including the ability to prioritise competing tasks and manage time effectively.
Highly developed written and verbal communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to work harmoniously within a team and with external stakeholders.
Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office products.
Languages
Excellent knowledge of spoken and written English
Submit your CVs to admin@safetynet-web.org on or before January 31, 2022
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