Call for Consultancy: Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Consultant for AI-Based Chatbot Project on Safe Abortion Information and Services in Nepal 

Call for Consultancy: Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Consultant for AI-Based Chatbot Project on Safe Abortion Information and Services in Nepal 

Project Title :  Improving Access to Safe Abortion Information and Services in Nepal with an AI-Based Chatbot

Organization :  NAAMII (Nepal Applied Mathematics and Informatics Institute for Research) in collaboration with Visible Impact (VISIM) and DIYO.AI  

Location: Nepal (Remote and On-site as required) 

Application Deadline: 10 Feb, 2025 

Expected Start Date: 12 Feb, 2025 

Duration: 15 Days from commencement. 

Background 

NAAMII, in partnership with DIYO.AI and Visible Impact (VISIM), is implementing a project titled “Improving Access to Safe Abortion Information and Services in Nepal with an AI-Based Chatbot.” The project aims to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to provide accurate, stigma-free, and accessible information on safe abortion services in Nepal. The chatbot will be integrated into popular social media platforms and messaging apps, offering a confidential and user-friendly way for individuals to access information and services related to safe abortion. 

As part of the project, we are seeking an experienced Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Consultant to design and implement a robust M&E framework, monitor project outcomes, and provide actionable insights to improve the chatbot’s performance and impact. 

Objectives of the Consultancy 

The primary objectives of this consultancy are: 

  1. Develop an M&E Framework: Design a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation framework to track the project’s progress, outcomes, and impact. 
  1. Data Collection and Analysis: Collect, analyze, and interpret quantitative and qualitative data to assess the chatbot’s development and effectiveness in providing safe abortion information. 
  1. Stakeholder Engagement: Work closely with project stakeholders, including NAAMII, DIYO, VISIM, government bodies, and end-users, to gather feedback and ensure the M&E process is inclusive and participatory. 
  1. Reporting: Prepare detailed M&E reports with actionable recommendations for improving the chatbot and scaling the project. 
  1. Capacity Building: Provide training and support to project staff on M&E best practices to ensure sustainability and continuous improvement. 

Scope of Work 

The consultant will be responsible for the following tasks: 

  1. M&E Framework Development: 
  • Design an M&E framework aligned with the project’s objectives, including key performance indicators (KPIs), data collection methods, and reporting mechanisms. 
  • Ensure the framework incorporates gender-sensitive and youth-friendly approaches. 
  1. Data Collection and Analysis: 
  • Develop tools and methodologies for data collection, including surveys, focus group discussions, and user feedback mechanisms. 
  • Analyze data to assess the development of the chatbot’s in alignment with project objective to impact on access to safe abortion information and services. 
  • Identify gaps and challenges in the chatbot’s status and provide recommendations for improvement. 
  1. Stakeholder Engagement: 
  • Conduct workshops and meetings with project stakeholders, including government bodies, civil society organizations, and end-users, to gather feedback and ensure the M&E process is inclusive. 
  • Collaborate with the project team to integrate stakeholder feedback into the chatbot’s design and functionality. 
  1. Reporting: 
  • Prepare and submit a mid-term evaluation report with preliminary findings and recommendations. 
  1. Capacity Building: 
  • Provide training to project staff on M&E best practices, data collection, and analysis. 
  • Develop guidelines and tools for ongoing monitoring and evaluation beyond the consultancy period. 

Deliverables 

  1. Inception Report: A detailed work plan outlining the approach, methodology, and timeline for the consultancy. 
  1. M&E Framework: A comprehensive M&E framework with defined KPIs, data collection tools, and reporting mechanisms. 
  1. Evaluation Report: A report summarizing preliminary findings, challenges, and recommendations for improving the chatbot’s development and performance. 
  1. Training Materials: Guidelines, tools, and training materials for project staff on M&E best practices. 

Qualifications and Experience 

We are looking for a consultant with the following qualifications and experience: 

  1. Education: 
  • Advanced degree in Monitoring and Evaluation, Public Health, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or a related field. 
  1. Experience: 
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in designing and implementing M&E frameworks for health-related projects, preferably in sexual and reproductive health (SRH) or safe abortion. 
  • Proven experience in data collection, analysis, and reporting, with a strong understanding of both quantitative and qualitative methods. 
  • Experience working with AI-based projects or digital health interventions is highly desirable. 
  • Familiarity with the cultural and social context of Nepal, particularly in relation to SRH and safe abortion. 
  1. Skills: 
  • Strong analytical and report-writing skills. 
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills. 
  • Proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., SPSS, STATA, or similar). 
  • Ability to work independently and meet tight deadlines. 
  1. Language: 
  • Fluency in Nepali and English (written and spoken) is required.

Application Process 

Interested candidates are invited to submit the following documents: 

  1. Technical Proposal: A detailed proposal outlining the approach, methodology, and work plan for the consultancy (maximum 5 pages). 
  1. Financial Proposal: A budget proposal detailing the consultant’s fees and any other associated costs. 
  1. CV: A detailed CV highlighting relevant experience and qualifications. 
  1. References: Contact information for at least two professional references. 

Submission: Please send your application to [email protected] with the subject line “Application for M&E Consultant – AI Chatbot Project” by Feb 10, 2025. 

Evaluation Criteria 

Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria: 

  1. Relevance of Experience (40%): Demonstrated experience in M&E, particularly in SRH or safe abortion projects. 
  1. Technical Proposal (30%): Quality and feasibility of the proposed methodology and work plan. 
  1. Financial Proposal (20%): Reasonableness and clarity of the budget. 
  1. References and Past Performance (10%): Feedback from previous clients or employers. 

Terms and Conditions 

  • The consultant will be required to sign a confidentiality agreement and adhere to NAAMII’s data privacy and security policies. 
  • The consultancy fee will be negotiated based on the candidate’s experience and the proposed budget. 
  • NAAMII reserves the right to terminate the contract if the consultant fails to meet the agreed deliverables or deadlines. 

Contact Information 

For any inquiries or further information, please contact: 

Udit Chandra Aryal 

Grants, Partnership and Program Manager 
Email:[email protected] 

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