CALL FOR A CONSULTANT

Introduction

The National Commission for science and Technology (NCST) is legally mandated to promote, support, coordinate and regulate the development and application of research, science, technology and innovation in order to create wealth and improve the quality of life. From November 2013 to October 2014, NCST has been implementing the Health Research Capacity Strengthening Initiative (HRCSI)in its consolidation phase with financial support from Wellcome Trust and DFID of the Government of the United Kingdom. NCST has now planned to engage a consultant to conduct an independent evaluation of the HRCSI consolidation phase.

Purpose

The purpose of this evaluation is twofold;

• to provide an independent assessment of the performance and impact of HRCSI consolidation phase against agreed activities, expected results and programme objectives; and
• to provide recommendations necessary for similar future programmes.

 Evaluation scope

The evaluation will assess the programme implementation in the consolidation phase focusing on efficiency and effectiveness. The evaluation will determine the actual and potential impact of HRCSI consolidation phase.

 Time frame

The evaluation process and compilation of the final evaluation report is expected to take 20 working days, from 6 to 25 October, 2014.

 

Outputs

(i)                An evaluation action plan (i.e programme/schedule of the evaluation)

(ii)              A presentation of initial evaluation findings

(iii)            Preliminary report for face to face discussion with the HRCSI/NCST team

(iv)            Final evaluation report, not exceeding 30 pages of publishable/ printable quality (in English)

 

Potential Candidates

Qualifications

At least a Master’s degree in relevant discipline. Applicants with a PhD or professorship will have an added advantage.

 Skills and competence

(i)                Knowledge or experience in grants management or awarding processes

(ii)              Track record in conducting evaluations

(iii)            Experience working in Malawi or in low income countries

(iv)            Have high standard of integrity, independence and objectivity

(v)              Have interest in, and ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary setting

Note:  Current or former employees of HRCSI secretariat and any persons who have served on HRCSI related committees are not eligible. HRCSI former and current grantees are also not eligible to apply.

 

How to apply

Candidates should provide the following documents;

(i)                Letter of expression of interest (1 page)

(ii)              Up to date CV (maximum 3 pages) citing similar work done previously

(iii)            Approach/methodology to the evaluation (maximum 2 pages)

(iv)            Financial offer please indicate your daily rate quoted in Pounds

Note: Consultants who are either local or international are welcome. Where possible, a local consultant is particularly encouraged to team up with an international consultant or vice versa.

 

Deadline for submission

The deadline for submission is 30^th September, 2014. The application, containing these documents, should be submitted either as hard copies or soft copies in English to:

The General Director

National Commission for Science and Technology

Lingadzi House, City Centre

Private Bag B303

Capital City

Lilongwe 3

Attention: HRCSI Research Officer

Email: clemani@ncst.mw with a copy to mchimzimu@ncst.mw

 

Enquiry

For any enquiry, please contact the HRCSI Research Officer on phone numbers:+2561771550/774869; cell number +265 888 785 401or at clemani@ncst.mw