Consultancy Opportunity for Final Evaluation
Employer SFCG
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Information on vacancy |
Period of publication |
25.04.2025 - 09.05.2025 |
Field of activity / position: |
Research projects / Consultant |
Duties |
Search for Common Ground (Search) in Uzbekistan is seeking the services of experienced individuals, research institutions or consulting firms (hereinafter consultant) to carry out the Final Evaluation of the project #Yoshstan: Empowering Youth CSOs.
1. Context Search for Common Ground Search is an international non-profit organization that promotes the peaceful resolution of conflict. With headquarters in Washington, DC and Brussels, Belgium, Search's mission is to transform how individuals, organizations, and governments deal with conflict—away from adversarial approaches towards cooperative solutions. With more than 600 staff, Search implements projects in more than 30 countries across the globe.
Search, which has been operating in Uzbekistan since 2022, works closely with key local actors across governments, development partners, civil society, religious actors and media to support peace building efforts, train professionals in conflict-sensitive reporting, increasing the capability of various actors and state authorities, and building strong regional bonds for increased collaboration and trust. The Project #Yoshstan: Empowering Youth CSOs, launched in October 2023, is a two-year project funded by the European Union that aims at expanding local youth's access to legal information and information related to youth issues in Uzbekistan, supporting the important directions of reforms aimed at establishing direct dialogue with the people in our country, and further strengthening guarantees of reliable protection of citizens' rights, freedoms and legal interests.
Theory of Change IF existing legal resource providers have increased capacity for operational sustainability and provision of practical services, as well as constructive engagement with local authorities, and IF vulnerable groups have greater access to reliable legal knowledge and constructive support for addressing issues towards achieving equality, THEN fundamental freedoms and equality of vulnerable groups in target communities will be better protected.
Core Objectives and Activities To achieve Search's goal to strengthen the protection of fundamental freedoms in Uzbekistan, this project aims to strengthen the capacities of local youth civil society representatives to facilitate community access to legal information and services and counter disinformation by increasing community awareness of existing laws in Uzbekistan. These objectives will be accomplished through providing various types of training on the Common Ground Approach (CGA), advocacy, the Uzbek legal framework, mis/disinformation, and media literacy to legal clinic staff and students at Andijan State University, youth civil society representatives, and young female pioneers, and support them in scaling up their gained knowledge to other State Universities. Other activities, such as developing legal resources and supporting the target youths in implementing media campaigns, will also contribute to realizing the project's objectives.
Search's Expected Results Legal clinic staff and youth volunteers have increased capacity to provide information and support to those seeking legal assistance University legal clinics have increased operational sustainability as a result of strengthened relationships with LAs and communities Youth volunteers and legal clinic staff have an increased ability to identify and counter disinformation Target communities have increased access to legal services supporting the protection of their fundamental freedoms
2. Goal and Objectives of Study The main objective of the evaluation is to assess the project's impact and outcomes with a focus on the project goals and objectives. This evaluation aims to measure the effectiveness and sustainability of efforts to strengthen the protection of fundamental freedoms and human rights in Uzbekistan, particularly emphasizing the role of youth civil society in enhancing legal awareness and countering disinformation. The evaluation will specifically focus on the following areas: Assessing Contextual Shifts: Evaluate the changes in the legal and social environment that have occurred since project inception, and how these shifts have affected the project's implementation and effectiveness. Achievement of Objectives: Determine the extent to which the project has achieved its overall and specific objectives: Strengthening the capacities of local youth civil society representatives in facilitating access to legal information and services (SO 1.1). increasing community awareness and countering disinformation regarding human rights and existing legal frameworks (SO 1.2). Effectiveness of Intervention Approaches: Analyze the effectiveness of the methodologies and strategies employed to achieve project objectives, including the collaborative mechanisms between legal clinics, youth volunteers, and local authorities. Sustainability of Achievements: Evaluate the long-term sustainability of the project's achievements, particularly focusing on the increased operational sustainability of university legal clinics and enhanced community access to legal services.
The evaluation will be guided by the principles of inclusivity, effective participation, conflict sensitivity, capacity building, and context-based knowledge, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the project's impact at the local level. Data will be collected and analyzed against specific indicators that reflect the project's expected outputs under each specific objective.
The consultant is expected to collect data on the following impact and outcome level indicators along with the key evaluation questions identified below: Indicator O1.1: % of target legal clinics staff and participating university students who believe that they are better equipped to defend fundamental freedoms and human rights of the local population as a result of the action. Indicator SO1.1: % of target legal clinics staff and participating university students who believe they can make a positive difference in their community for the defense of human rights at the end of the action. Indicator SO1.2: # of clients who received legal information and services in the protection of human rights provided by target legal clinics and universities. Indicator SO2.1: % of direct participants in the media campaign who report that they are better able to counter human rights-related disinformation.
The selected indicators from Peace Impact Framework (PIF) which are relevant to the project should be measured and analyzed within the scope of the Final Evaluation. Search will provide all necessary documentation and guidance related to the PIF at the inception meeting stage to the hired evaluator.
The evaluation will be coordinated by the local Search DM&E Manager for Central Asia and the entire process will be overseen by Search's Institutional Learning Team (ILT).
3. Key Questions of the Study Context What are the evolving legal and social environments that have direct or indirect bearing on the project implementation?
Relevance and Adaptability: How relevant is the project intervention to the current socio-legal landscape in Uzbekistan, particularly concerning efforts to strengthen fundamental freedoms and human rights (access to justice)? How have the project activities been tailored to remain pertinent across diverse community contexts and stakeholder needs? Does the TOC hold true amidst the evolving conflict dynamics? Effectiveness/Achievement of Objectives: What are the achievements vis-a-via project logframe and designated PIF indicators? To what extent has the project successfully achieved its overall objectives and specific outcomes as stated in the project design? 3.1 Capacity Building and Knowledge Utilization: How has the project contributed to enhancing the capacities of legal clinics' staff and youth volunteers in providing legal services and countering disinformation? In what ways have the knowledge and skills gained been applied in practical settings to address the project's goals? 3.2 Collaboration and Social Environment: How has the project facilitated collaboration between civil society, legal entities, and local authorities to promote human rights and counter disinformation? What role has the project played in fostering a supportive environment for community engagement and policy advocacy? Intermediate Impact How has the project contributed in creating a conducive environment in strengthening the groundwork for the protection of fundamental freedom and equality of vulnerable groups in Uzbekistan? How has the project contributed in shifting the role of youth towards this cause? Sustainability a What strategies and mechanisms have been developed to ensure the sustainability of the project's achievements post-implementation? Has there any independent initiative or similar indication to take forward the project initiatives post-project? Good Practices and Lessons Learned: What are the good practices that emerged from the project? What worked and what did not work? What were the key challenges encountered during implementation? What are the key lessons learned that could inform future initiatives focused on legal empowerment and rights protection?
4. Geographic Locations The selection of geographic locations for the study is critical to capturing the full impact of the project's interventions across varying contexts and demographics. Andijan City, Asaka, and Izboskan districts are prioritized as they represent the primary sites of project implementation where core activities aimed at strengthening fundamental freedoms and human rights have taken place. These areas offer insights into the project's direct impact on local communities and governance structures. Additionally, the inclusion of Fergana, Margilan, and Bagdad districts is essential due to the supplementary activities conducted in these areas, which provide valuable perspectives on the replicability and scalability of project outcomes. Data collection will specifically focus on these sites to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the project's reach and effectiveness across the varied socio-economic and cultural landscapes within the region.
5. Methodology and Data Collection Tools The evaluation is expected to employ a mixed-methods approach to ensure a comprehensive assessment of the project's impact on strengthening fundamental freedoms and human rights. The consultant is required to propose a detailed methodology that aligns with previous studies conducted, if applicable, and addresses the specific objectives and needs of the project. The proposed approach should integrate various tools and methods to effectively gather and analyze data, with justifications included for all selected methods.
Data Collection Tools: On-site Surveys: On-site surveys are crucial for gathering immediate feedback from participants, offering qualitative insights and improving data reliability. They enable engagement with individuals who may not have internet access but are influential in the local context. Target Group: Local community members, including youth and other stakeholders in Andijan City, Asaka, Izboskan. Sample Size: The consultant should propose a suitable sample size, ensuring geographic and demographic representation. Online Surveys: Online surveys provide an efficient means of reaching a broad and diverse group of participants. They allow for the collection of quantitative data on participants' perceptions and experiences with the project. Target Group: Local community members, including youth and other stakeholders in Fergana, Margilan, and Bagdad district. Sample Size: The consultant should determine a statistically representative sample size for the online surveys, to be agreed upon with Search during the inception phase. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs): FGDs facilitate in-depth discussions and insights into community experiences and perceptions of the project's interventions. They are ideal for outcome harvesting, capturing qualitative data that illustrate the project's impact on strengthening capacities and countering disinformation. Target Groups: Youth leaders, community members, and representatives from civil society organizations (CSOs). Number: The consultant should propose an appropriate number of FGDs, ensuring diverse representation from target communities. Key Informant Interviews (KIIs): KIIs provide detailed insights from stakeholders with specific knowledge about the project's implementation and outcomes, including challenges and successes. Target Groups: Representatives from government agencies, local authorities, legal clinic staff, and other relevant stakeholders. Number: The number of KIIs should be sufficient to capture a range of perspectives and should be determined in consultation with Search.
Sampling Strategy: The consultant should propose a sampling strategy that ensures both breadth and depth of coverage across the geographic locations outlined. This strategy should be informed by the project's objectives and previous evaluations, with a focus on inclusivity and representativeness. The means of analysis, including statistical and thematic analysis techniques, should be justified based on the data collected and the outlined objectives of the study.
The consultant is also expected to incorporate "Do No Harm" strategies into all aspects of the study and propose deliverables that effectively share the findings with both project stakeholders and a broader audience interested in the evaluation's outcomes.
Deliverables Search expects the following deliverables from the external consultant(s) as they correspond to the timeline and budget: An inception report (in English) detailing a proposed and detailed methodology, work plan and all data collection tools annexed to it. The inception report and the data collection tools will be reviewed by Search and it has to be approved by Search's Design, Monitoring and Evaluation (DM&E) department and Institutional Learning Team (ILT). All original data submitted to Search; A draft report for review by Search's DM&E department and ILT. The report may be subject to multiple revisions if required to ensure quality; A final report of 30-35 pages (but not more than 40 pages), excluding annexes outlining the baseline assessment findings, which should include: A detailed report with clear findings well-enclosed the above listed key research questions; Concrete recommendations to Search on effective ways of engaging with youth, Civil Society Organizations and Government Institutions; Annexes with robust analysis and appropriate figures against the impact and outcome indicators; A PowerPoint presentation on the Final Evaluation findings; All deliverable documents should be prepared strictly in English and translated into the Russian language.
Logistical Support Consultant(s) will be responsible for organizing their own logistics for data collection, including transportation to/from Andijan region, vehicles, fuel, drivers, accommodation, and venue rentals. These costs must be budgeted into the study.. At least one Search and/or IP staff member may be available to support in arranging proper access/connection to project beneficiaries/participants.
In addition, Search and partners will share the following elements with the external consultant(s): Background materials including the project proposal and logframe, M&E plan, project periodic reports etc. The project does not have a baseline report.
6. Ethical Considerations Ensuring ethical standards throughout the evaluation process is essential to safeguarding the dignity and safety of all participants. The evaluation will prioritize Do No Harm and conflict sensitivity principles. This includes conducting a thorough contextual analysis to understand local dynamics and avoid exacerbating tensions within communities.
Inclusion is a core value, and the study will actively seek diverse participation across gender, age, ethnicity, and religion, especially from marginalized groups. Informed consent will be a critical component, with participants receiving clear information about the study's purpose, procedures, and potential risks. Consent will be obtained in writing or verbally, ensuring participants understand their rights and can withdraw at any time without consequences.
Confidentiality will be strictly maintained; identifiable information will be securely stored, and findings will be reported in a way that protects participants' anonymity. By adhering to these ethical practices, the evaluation aims to respect participants' rights while producing valuable insights for future initiatives.
7. Data Quality Assurance and Management To ensure the integrity and quality of the data collected during the evaluation, a comprehensive review and management process will be implemented. All study data will be subject to multiple layers of review by both the country office and the global Institutional Learning Team before the final product is accepted. Review Processes: Initial Data Review: Upon completion of data collection, preliminary analysis and validation will be conducted by the evaluation team to identify any inconsistencies or gaps in the data. Country Office Review: The country office will conduct a thorough review of the findings, methodologies, and analytical approaches to ensure alignment with project objectives and contextual relevance. This review will occur prior to drafting the final report. Institutional Learning Team Review: The penultimate version of the evaluation report will be submitted to the global Institutional Learning Team for additional oversight and feedback. This ensures that the evaluation meets established standards of quality and rigor. |
Requirements to the candidate |
Age: |
30-70 |
Gender: |
Irrelevant |
Residence: |
Uzbekistam |
Education: |
Irrelevant |
Professional requirements |
8. Timeline The Final Evaluation, encompassing desk study, field-based data collection, data analysis, and report writing, will be conducted over a total period of 45 days. This timeline is structured to ensure that all phases of the evaluation are completed efficiently.
Activity Timeline:
Activity Deadline Application Announcement April 25, 2025 Application Deadline May 9, 2025 Signing of the Contract May 16, 2025 Submission of Inception Report May 26, 2025 Draft Report Submission July 11, 2025 Final Report Submission July 25, 2025
9. Budget The total budget available for this evaluation study is up to €11,000. Consultants are required to submit a detailed financial proposal that outlines all anticipated costs associated with the completion of the evaluation. This should include, but is not limited to, the following components:
Personnel Costs: Daily rates for all personnel involved in the evaluation, including the lead consultant and any support staff. Data Collection Costs: Costs related to field-based data collection, including materials and resources for online surveys, focus group discussions (FGDs), and key informant interviews (KIIs). Specific costs should detail the expected number of participants surveyed, the number of sites for data collection, and any logistical expenses associated with conducting these activities, such as transportation, accommodation, and venue rentals, should be included. Data Analysis: Expenses associated with data management, statistical analysis, and qualitative analysis. Production of Deliverables: Costs related to the preparation and distribution of the final report and any interim reports, including design and printing if necessary.
Consultants should provide a clear and itemized budget that reflects their understanding of the project requirements and the value of their services while remaining within the allocated budget. Proposals will be evaluated not only on the technical merit of the evaluation plan but also on the financial soundness of the budget presented.
Payment Schedule The schedule for the payment of the consultancy fee is structured as follows: Initial Payment: 50% of the total consultancy fee will be paid upon the approval of the Inception Report and implementation plan. This initial payment will facilitate the commencement of data collection and analysis. Final Payment: The remaining 50% will be paid upon the completion and approval of the final report, which should be submitted in both English and Russian. The release of this second installment will be contingent upon the report's approval by the Evidence and Learning Team (ELT).
10. Requirements of Consultant The following skills and experience are expected by Search for our evaluator for this project: Proficiency in English and Uzbek languages (written and spoken); At least 5 years of experience in doing research and baseline studies including collecting data in interviews, surveys and focus groups in Central Asia, particularly in Uzbekistan and/or outside; Ability to work with state and non-state sectors; Experience conducting quantitative surveys and analysis; Evaluation methods and data collection skills; Understanding of conflict sensitivity especially with respect to gender, cultural and religious sensitivity.
Selection Criteria Technical proposals will have 70% weight, while financial proposals will have 30% weight during the proposal assessment process. The Final Evaluation proposal should outline: A Final Evaluation design, the main concepts will be taken for further work The chosen methodology and an explanation for why it was selected, including an initial toolkit that will be used through the study; Brief analytical framework Anticipated risks for this research, particularly from a Conflict Sensitivity and Do No Harm perspective; A description of the applicant's experience and its relevance to this evaluation; One writing sample of evaluations carried out by the team in the last 3 years. A well explained and fully itemized budget proposed for this study.
Consultant proposals will be selected for interview based on: The quality of the technical proposal submitted: knowhow of the subject matter, Relevance of proposed methodology to the goal, objectives, and research questions for the project, Quality of proposed methods, presentation of analytical approach conflict sensitivity approaches, and quality control measures, academic qualification and professional experiences of the proposal team members, team combination Quality of the writing sample and its relevance to the assignment in concern Performance in the interview: Presentation ideas, ability to clarify questions raised from the proposal, explanation of the field data collection team formation and explanation of explanation quality assurance approach. Budget proposed in the financial proposal: Justification of the rate and no of team members proposed, total amount proposed in relation to proposed methodology, deliverables and team and balance between HR budget and other field related costs |
Working conditions |
Region |
Tashkent |
Employment |
Partial |
Salary offered |
See total budget of the service |
Additional information |
Additional information: |
Applications Full description of the opportunity: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1G7NJ9dGITXy_sbB_ejrgsTUxNMcHJfbq/view?usp=sharing
To apply, interested applicants who fit the requirements should apply in English to uzbekistan@sfcg.org not later than COB May 9, 2025. Applications should include:
Note: Only the following documents should be submitted (no additional documents will be reviewed): The technical and financial proposals combined Curriculum vitae and cover letter (1 page) One example of a past evaluation. |
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