Boosting Disaster Preparedness in J&K Schools: UNDP Seeks Proposals
In a bid to enhance disaster preparedness in schools across Jammu and Kashmir, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has issued a call for proposals to support the reinforcement of School Disaster Risk Management (SDRM) systems in the Union Territory.
A Comprehensive Approach to Disaster Risk Reduction
The proposed programme aims to establish effective disaster management mechanisms in schools, aligning school safety information with the national Central Portal. Key objectives include strengthening school disaster risk management systems, building the capacity of education stakeholders through Training of Trainers (ToT), developing comprehensive School Disaster Management Plans, promoting hazard and vulnerability assessments, and improving emergency preparedness through mock drills and simulations.
Scope of Work: A Multi-Faceted Approach
Under the scope of work, the selected service provider will conduct a gap analysis, develop or adapt ToT modules, deliver three-day ToT programmes across 20 districts, prepare School Disaster Management Plans for selected schools, form School Disaster Management Committees, carry out hazard and vulnerability assessments, prepare a training calendar, develop a School Safety Manual in English and the local language, organise mock drills and simulation exercises in 20 schools, and support the upload of school safety information and disaster management plans to the Central Portal.
Eligibility Criteria: Expertise in Disaster Risk Reduction
The opportunity is open to duly registered consulting firms and service providers with demonstrated expertise in disaster risk reduction and school safety. Applicants must have at least seven years of consulting experience in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and a track record of successfully implementing at least two comparable school safety projects. They must also demonstrate the technical and managerial capacity to undertake the assignment.
Required Documents: A Comprehensive Submission
Required documents include a company profile, registration certificate, audited financial statements, proposal submission form, details of recent and ongoing projects, satisfactory performance certificates, CVs of key personnel, technical methodology, management structure, and a detailed financial proposal covering all costs.
Assessment Criteria: Technical and Financial Evaluation
Technical proposals will be assessed on organisational expertise and experience, technical methodology, implementation approach, management structure, and the qualifications and experience of key personnel. Financial proposals will be opened only for bidders who qualify in the technical evaluation. Applicants must also accept the UNDP General Terms and Conditions, comply with the UN Supplier Code of Conduct, declare the absence of conflicts of interest, and meet all mandatory eligibility requirements.
A Significant Opportunity for Experienced Organisations
The call for proposals presents a significant opportunity for experienced organisations to support disaster-resilient schools in 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir through systematic training, planning, and capacity-building interventions. The programme will help create safer learning environments and strengthen institutional capacity across the Union Territory’s education sector while contributing to broader national disaster risk reduction goals.
A Collaborative Effort: UNDP and the J&K Education Sector
The programme is a collaborative effort between the UNDP and the Jammu and Kashmir education sector, aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and creating a safer learning environment for students. By supporting this initiative, experienced organisations can make a meaningful contribution to the development of disaster-resilient schools in the Union Territory.
A Call to Action: Submit Your Proposal
The deadline for submitting proposals is fast approaching. Interested organisations are encouraged to submit their proposals, which will be evaluated based on technical and financial criteria. This is a significant opportunity for experienced organisations to make a difference in the lives of students and communities in Jammu and Kashmir.