Consultant - Gender Inclusive Holistic ECD Policy Framework

The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), is a private, non-denominational, international development agency established in 1967. It seeks sustainable solutions to long-term problems of poverty, hunger, illiteracy, and ill-health with special emphasis on the needs of rural communities in mountainous and other resource poor regions, primarily in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Its main areas of focus are education, health, rural development, environment and strengthening civil society.

The Aga Khan Foundation (Pakistan) [AKF (P)] is seeking a high Caliber professional consultant to develop Gender Inclusive Holistic ECD Policy Framework that aligns with Gilgit-Baltistan Education Strategy (GBES) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Education Sector Plan and present it at regional level in stakeholders seminar.

PURPOSE

The Foundations for Children (F4C) project seeks to enhance the gender responsive holistic Early Childhood Development (ECD) landscape in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, a region with unique cultural and developmental challenges. Recognizing the critical importance of early childhood as a foundation for lifelong learning and well-being, this consultancy aims to provide a comprehensive mapping of existing ECD provisions, policy frameworks, and guidelines within the region.

SCOPE OF WORK

The consultant will play a pivotal role in assessing the current state of ECD in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, identifying gaps and opportunities for improvement. This will involve engaging with various stakeholders, including government entities, educational institutions, and community organizations, to gather insights and data.

Following the mapping exercise, the consultant will document the government engagement achieved by the project and create a strategic plan to sustain this engagement, promoting collaboration and advocacy for enhanced, gender-responsive holistic Early Childhood Development (ECD) initiatives.

Additionally, the consultant will develop a comprehensive Gender Inclusive Holistic ECD Policy Framework that aligns with the Gilgit Baltistan Education Strategy (GBES) and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Education Sector Plan. This framework will identify the needs and aspirations of the region's children and their families, ensuring a focused and effective approach to ECD. The consultancy will span 30 days, focusing on establishing a strong foundation for transformative change in early childhood development practices in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral. This initiative aims to enhance the effectiveness and reach of ECD programs in these regions.

DELIVERABLES

CONSULTAION WITH EDUCATION STAKEHOLDERS TO:

• Document government engagement during the project life
• Plan for the engagement of relevant Education Departments for remaining project time
• Mapping out the existing provisions, status, models and practices for the ECD in Pakistan and GBC.
• Outlining current challenges, gaps, and actionable recommendations for ECD

Develop Early Childhood Development (ECD) policy framework: this framework must outline the strategies and guidelines for promoting the gender responsive holistic development of young children, typically from birth to around age eight. In the context of Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, Pakistan, such a framework would focus on ensuring that children in this region receive the necessary support in areas like health, education, and social development.

Conduct ECD Policy Framework Dissemination Seminar in GBC and develop a brief report

Qualifications

• Proven experience in Education and early childhood development (ECD) and policy analysis.
• Expertise in organizing and documenting high-level seminars.
• Strong analytical and writing skills, with the ability to produce high-quality reports and policy briefs.
• Familiarity with existing ECD models and practices is preferred.
• Practical Research background

Payment Terms

Payment terms will be determined jointly with the selected consultant.

Time Frame and Level of Effort

The consultancy is expected to be completed by the end of November 2024, not exceeding the total number of allotted consultancy days. The consultant should also propose a detailed implementation plan.

Application Process

Interested consultants should submit a proposal detailing their approach to the scope of work, relevant experience, and a cost breakdown . Proposals must be submitted by Sunday, November 3rd,  2024. Shortlisted consultants will be invited to present their work and undergo a reference check before the final contract award. AKF reserves the right to accept or reject any proposal without explanation.

Safeguarding

AKF is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. AKF expects all staff, volunteers, and consultants to adhere to a zero-tolerance policy for sexual abuse, exploitation, harassment (SEAH), and other misconduct. Compliance with the code of conduct, including SEAH principles, is mandatory. Violations may result in disciplinary actions, including termination and exclusion from AKDN activities.

AKF(P) recruitment and selection policy and procedures reflect our commitment to equal opportunity and the safeguarding of children, beneficiaries, partners, community members and employees in accordance with AKF(P)’s Safeguarding policy.

The deadline for the submission of application is Sunday, November 3rd, 2024. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.