(MoHERST) Study to conduct a childcare demand assessment

Language of Notice *

English

Deadline for submission of expressions of interest *

22-02-2024

Local Time *

12: 30

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

Assignment Title: CONSULTANCY TO CONDUCT A STUDY ON CRECHE FACILITIES WITHIN THE TERTIARY AND HIGHER EDUCATION SECTOR IN THE GAMBIA

(Individual Base Consultancy)

Reference No. GM-PPPPE-406108-CS-INDV

• Context and Background information on the Consultancy

In The Gambia, gender inequalities continue to hold many girls and women from accessing tertiary and higher education, particularly TVET and STEM and their related fields. This low participation of the female gender can be attributed to fundamental socio-cultural, structural, and systemic challenges as well as limited enabling infrastructure and facilitating environment.

It is argued that crèche facilities contribute to creating a supportive and inclusive environment that enables women to overcome barriers and actively participate in higher education. By addressing the challenges associated with balancing academic and parenting responsibilities, crèche facilities promote gender equality and contribute to the overall success and well-being of female students. This resonates with the transformation agenda of the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST), which prioritizes promoting equitable access for women and girls to post-secondary education in The Gambia, particularly in STEM and TVET.

• OBJECTIVES AND OUTPUTS The primary objective is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the existing crèche facilities and their impact on female students in tertiary and higher education, leading to actionable recommendations for improvement.

Details of the specific objectives of this assignment can be obtained from the TOR, which will be made available upon request.

• SCOPE AND TASK The study will enable MoHERST to understand the quality of existing crèche facilities, identify areas for improvement, or assess the overall effectiveness of these facilities as well as insights and recommendations that will inform policy and strategic decisions, leading to the improvement of crèche facilities and the overall advancement of gender equality in tertiary and higher education in The Gambia, in line with national and international development objectives.

THE MAIN TASKS TO BE UNDERTAKEN ARE:

• Develop an outline of the assessment based on desk review and other interviews.
• Design and finalize a research methodology and work plan in collaboration with the local consultant and core team.
• Develop a consultation plan and schedule together with the team.
• Carry out a process to gather information on the current state of the childcare system.
• Present findings
• Develop a childcare roadmap and strategy for nursing mothers at tertiary and higher education institutions. The consultancy will span for a period of three (3) months from the date of the award of the contract.

• Individual Qualifications -Minimum requirements: The following outlines the minimum qualifications for an individual consultant to conduct a study on crèche facilities to ensure a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the facilities in The Gambia:

• An advanced university degree (Masters/PhD) background in early childhood education, child development, social work, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5+ years of professional experience working on gender and child health and welfare policy issues.
• Previous experience in conducting a similar study is an added advantage
• Strong research skills, including the ability to design and conduct surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions.
• Understanding of local and national regulations, guidelines, and standards related to crèche facilities and child care.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills to prepare comprehensive reports and present findings effectively.
• Good interpersonal skills to engage with relevant stakeholders, including parents, childcare providers, government agencies, civil society organizations, the private sector and the community
• Cultural sensitivity and awareness to ensure that the study takes into account the diversity of the population and cultural nuances.
• Adherence to ethical guidelines and standards in research involving children and sensitive topics.
• Proficiency in using relevant software and tools for data collection, analysis, and report writing.
• Positive references or a proven track record of successful completion of similar studies or projects. Submission of Expressions of Interest:

The Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs (MoFEA) through the Gambia Fiscal Management Development Project, now invites eligible Individual consultants to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultant firms should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services.

The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” dated September 2023 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest.

A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Individual Consultant Selection (IC) method set out in the Consultant Guidelines. Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours from 09:00 to 16:00 Monday to Thursday and 09:00 to 12h30 on Friday.

Expressions of interest should be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail) on or before 22 February 2024 at 12h30 GMT

Gambia Fiscal Management Development Project GFMDP

Royal Insurance Building

2nd Floor, Kotu Bertil Harding Highway

The Gambia

Email: [email protected] and [email protected]