Child Rights and Protection Project Officer

Position Title: Child Rights and Protection Project Officer – Girls Get Equal 2.0
Location: Phalombe / Mulanje Districts
Reports To: Project Manager / Thematic Lead – Child Rights, Human Rights, and Governance

Purpose of the Position:

The Project Officer – Girls Get Equal 2.0 will be responsible for the day-to-day planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of project activities aimed at promoting gender equality, girls’ empowerment, and protection of children’s rights at district level. S/he will work closely with stakeholders including schools, local government, community structures, and youth networks to ensure that the project achieves its objectives in line with Plan International’s values, policies, and strategic priorities.

Key Responsibilities

1. Project Implementation and Coordination

• Facilitate the implementation of all project activities at community, school, and district level according to the work plan.
• Support the mobilization of community structures and duty bearers in promoting gender equality and youth participation.
• Facilitate awareness campaigns and community mobilization sessions on gender equality, girls’ rights, and child protection.
• Coordinate capacity-building sessions for youth groups, community leaders, school clubs, and other relevant structures.
• Engage with school authorities to strengthen safe learning environments and promote girl-friendly practices.
• Promote inclusive programming that addresses the specific needs of girls, young women, and marginalized groups.

2. Stakeholder Engagement and Representation

• Establish and maintain strong collaboration with government departments (Education, Gender, Youth, Social Welfare), CSOs, and traditional leaders.
• Represent the project in relevant district-level coordination meetings, technical working groups, and community forums.
• Build strong relationships with youth clubs, mother groups, school authorities, and child protection committees.

3. Monitoring, Documentation, and Reporting

• Collect and document project data, case studies, and success stories to inform learning and reporting.
• Participate in joint monitoring visits and contribute to periodic reviews.
• Submit timely and quality activity reports (weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annually) to the Project Manager.

4. Child Protection and Safeguarding

• Uphold and promote organisational Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct.
• Ensure all activities are implemented with a “Do No Harm” approach.
• Report and support the handling of any safeguarding concerns following organizational protocols.

5. Capacity Building and Mentorship

• Support the capacity building of community-based structures including youth networks, child protection committees, and school clubs.
• Mentor and support community volunteers to lead youth engagement and awareness efforts.
• Facilitate peer learning and experience sharing among youth clubs and stakeholders.

Key Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Development Studies, Community Development, Education, Gender Studies, or related fields.
• At least 2–3 years of experience implementing child rights or gender equality-focused projects.
• Knowledge of Malawi’s child protection, education, and gender policies.
• Experience working with children, adolescents, and community-based organizations.
• Strong facilitation, community mobilization, and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Attributes

• Fluency in English and Chichewa (knowledge of Lhomwe i s an added advantage 
• Understanding of local cultural dynamics in Phalombe and Mulanje.
• Excellent report writing and documentation skills.
• Ability to ride a motor bike