Terms of Reference to Develop a Proposal for a Project Promoting Science, Technology, and Innovation Through Edutainment Programs for Children
Background
We are looking for an external consultant to develop a proposal for a new five years Science for Children project to promote science and innovation among children (and their parents and teachers) in Ethiopia using diverse edutainment platforms.
Rationale
Ethiopia as the second-most populous country in Africa with nearly half of its population under 15 years of age, has great potential to lead Africa’s effort to be at the center of the global knowledge-economy. The current national effort to increase school enrolment, improve quality of primary and secondary educations as well as the strategic expansion of higher education institutions is a critical input towards realizing that potential.
The 21st century, more than any other previous centuries, will be shaped by creativity. In fact, it is likely that the next generation of Ethiopians will be working in jobs that may not even exist today. The education to prepare young Ethiopians for these new jobs and competitions should focus on critical thinking and problem solving, creativity and innovation, collaboration, global awareness, communication skills and technology skills. Unfortunately, large number of students leaving school in Africa leave without the necessary knowledge and skills to enter the global economy. Preparing children during their early years in education is paramount to ensure that the children have enough competitiveness to enter the global market and contribute to sustained economic development and wellbeing. In addition to rethinking the education delivery system, it is also important to find ways of engaging the parents, teachers and the public at large in a way that creates national grassroots movement for science and innovation in Ethiopia.
Moreover, science and innovation should be integrated with the real-life and the local contexts. For this to happen and to create a grassroots movement, the role of the media and the availability of context-sensitive out-of-school content is of paramount importance. To support this effort, Addis Ababa University along with the Ethiopian Academy of Sciences, under the direction of the Ministry of Education, took the responsibility to develop a Science and technology edutainment project that will inspire, encourage, educate and nurture children.
The general objective of this Science for Children project is to promote Science, technology, and innovation among Ethiopian children by producing resources and materials that inspire and cultivate their potential and interest in science and technology.
The specific objectives are
Scope of work and responsibilities of the consultant
Summary of key functions and deliverables
Evaluation Procedure
Documents to be included when submitting the proposals
Qualifications and Competencies