Prevention Officer-VMMC 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

Duties and Responsibilities

Program Planning and Implementation

Strategic Planning: Developing and implementing strategic plans for VMMC programs, including setting objectives, targets, and timelines.
Coordination: Coordinating with healthcare facilities, community organizations, and other stakeholders to ensure effective program delivery.
Resource Management: Managing resources, including budgeting, procurement, and allocation of supplies necessary for VMMC procedures.

Service Delivery

Clinical Oversight: Overseeing the clinical aspects of VMMC services to ensure procedures are performed safely and in accordance with medical standards and guidelines.
Quality Assurance: Implementing quality assurance measures to maintain high standards of care, including infection prevention and control practices.
Patient Education: Providing pre-operative and post-operative counseling and education to clients about the benefits, risks, and care instructions associated with VMMC.

Training and Capacity Building

Training Programs: Designing and conducting training programs for healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, and counselors, on VMMC techniques and best practices.
Capacity Building: Strengthening the capacity of healthcare teams to deliver high-quality VMMC services through ongoing mentorship and support.

Community Engagement and Mobilization

Outreach Campaigns: Developing and implementing community outreach and mobilization strategies to raise awareness about VMMC and encourage uptake of services.
Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging with community leaders, religious groups, and other key stakeholders to promote VMMC and address cultural or social barriers.
Communication Materials: Creating and distributing educational materials and campaigns to inform the public about VMMC benefits and availability.

Monitoring and Evaluation

Data Collection: Establishing systems for collecting, managing, and analyzing data related to VMMC services, including patient outcomes and program impact.
Reporting: Preparing regular reports on program performance, challenges, and achievements for internal and external stakeholders.
Program Improvement: Using data and feedback to identify areas for improvement and implement changes to enhance program effectiveness and efficiency.

Policy and Advocacy

Policy Development: Contributing to the development and implementation of policies and guidelines related to VMMC at the local, regional, or national level.
Advocacy: Advocating for the integration of VMMC into broader HIV prevention and public health strategies.

Qualification, Experiences and Competencies

Educational Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree in public health, nursing, medicine, or a related field is typically required.
Advanced Degree: A master’s degree in public health, health management, or a related field is often preferred.

Professional Experience

Experience: At least 3-5 years of experience in public health, with a focus on HIV prevention, sexual health, or related areas. Experience with VMMC programs is highly desirable.
Clinical Background: Clinical experience, particularly in surgical procedures or HIV prevention, is beneficial.

Skills and Competencies

Technical Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of VMMC procedures, HIV prevention strategies, and public health principles.
Training Skills: Ability to design and deliver effective training programs for healthcare providers.
Data Analysis: Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and reporting to monitor program performance and impact.
Project Management: Strong project management skills, including planning, budgeting, and resource allocation.
Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with diverse stakeholders and creating educational materials.
Problem-Solving: Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills to address program challenges and improve service delivery.

Personal Attributes

Cultural Sensitivity: Ability to work effectively in diverse cultural settings and with various communities.
Team Player: Ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and build positive relationships with partners and stakeholders.
Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing program needs, priorities, and environments.
Ethical Conduct: Commitment to ethical standards and patient confidentiality in healthcare practice.

Knowledge Areas

Public Health: Comprehensive understanding of public health principles, particularly in relation to HIV prevention and sexual health.
VMMC Guidelines: Familiarity with international and national guidelines and protocols for VMMC.
Health Systems: Knowledge of health systems strengthening and the integration of VMMC into broader healthcare services.