COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

Job Title: Communications Coordinator

Reports to: Reports to the MCFSP Program Director while also working closely with and under the guidance of the one PIH Communications Director

Employment Level: 50% Full-Time Equivalent (FTE)

Location: Butaro, Burera District, Rwanda

Program Profile

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UGHE is a transformative initiative designed to provide educational opportunities to African youth, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, including females, refugees and displaced persons, and youth with disabilities. This program offers comprehensive scholarships and additional support services, ensuring that scholars can focus on their academic and personal development. The program equips scholars with the skills and knowledge necessary to become effective leaders in global health delivery through a holistic approach that includes mentorship, leadership training, and community engagement. Ultimately, this initiative not only enhances the employability of graduates but also contributes to breaking the cycle of poverty, narrowing gender disparities, and improving health outcomes across the continent.

Role Overview

The Communication Coordinator is tasked with crafting and executing communication strategies that effectively promote the UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and its objectives. This role involves managing content across various platforms, including social media, newsletters, and the program website, to raise awareness and engage stakeholders. The Coordinator will work closely with internal and external partners to ensure consistent messaging and branding, while also monitoring the effectiveness of communication initiatives. By fostering strong relationships and utilizing innovative communication methods, the Coordinator plays a vital role in enhancing the program's visibility and impact within the community and beyond.

The Communication Coordinator will play a crucial role in enhancing the visibility of the program and engaging stakeholders through effective communication. This position requires creativity and proficiency in digital marketing tools.

Responsibilities

1. Communication Plan Development

Design and implement a comprehensive communication plan to enhance the program’s visibility and engagement among key stakeholders.Identify and leverage effective communication channels to target specific demographics and partners.

2. Content Management

Develop, curate, and manage content across multiple platforms, including social media, newsletters, and the program’s pages.Highlight success stories and program impacts through compelling narratives and visuals.Monitor online conversations and actively engage with followers across various platforms.

3. Pre-Arrival Communication

Develop communication materials for the pre-arrival package and training for the Program’s scholars.Create welcome materials, orientation guides, and online pre-arrival training resources to ensure incoming scholars are well-prepared for academic and campus life.

4. Accessibility and Inclusivity

Ensure communication materials promote accessibility and inclusivity, accommodating individuals with disabilities and refugees.Provide alternative formats for all communication resources as necessary.

5. Outreach and Engagement Events

Coordinate outreach initiatives to connect with potential scholars, partners, and community organizations.Build strong relationships with media outlets and community stakeholders to amplify the program’s reach.

6. Advocacy and Recruitment Support

Collaborate with recruitment teams to effectively communicate program benefits and opportunities.Support student recruitment efforts by creating targeted promotional materials and outreach campaigns.

7. Alumni Engagement

Support alumni engagement by developing targeted communication strategies, including newsletters, events, and regular updates.Foster connections and share program updates and opportunities with alumni.

8. Reporting and Documentation

Track communication metrics and analyze data to measure the Program’s communication effectivenessPrepare detailed reports on communication activities for quarterly, bi-annual, and annual program evaluations.Adapt and refine communication initiatives based on data-driven insights.

9. Partnership Communication

Facilitate collaboration with disability-inclusive and refugee-oriented organizations and academic institutions.Coordinate joint communication efforts, share success stories, and align strategies to strengthen partnerships.

10. Career Services Communication

Develop and manage communication materials related to job placement, career counseling, and professional development opportunities for scholars.Promote career-focused content and job placement resources while facilitating connections between scholars and employers.

11. Mentorship Programs

Create and implement communication plans to support mentorship programs for scholars, students, and alumni.Develop mentorship-focused materials, organize events, and establish channels for mentor-mentee engagement.

12. Internal and External Collaboration

Work closely with UGHE teams, including the Registrar and Communications Department, to ensure consistency in brand messaging and visual identity across all communication channels.Partner with external stakeholders to enhance the program’s reputation and impact.Build and maintain relationships with media and communication outlets.

13. Conference Communication

Manage communication efforts related to MCF scholars' participation in conferences and academic events in consultation with Program team and One PIH Communications Director.Coordinate invitations, prepare event-specific materials, and ensure effective follow-up communication with scholars and alumni.

14. Additional Duties

Assist in planning and executing internal and external events in collaboration with the registrar, communications, and faculty tea…