TERMS OF REFERENCE (TOR)

Consultant for Qualitative Data Collection and Analytical Report Writing

1. Background

Shifa Foundation (Sindh Office) intends to conduct a qualitative assessment/study in the Karachi Region to gather insights from communities and key stakeholders regarding UNICEF funded ISD Project. To support this process, an independent consultant will be engaged to conduct qualitative field research and prepare an analytical report based on the findings.

2. Purpose of the Consultancy

The purpose of this consultancy is to collect high-quality qualitative data through Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), analyze the collected information, and produce a comprehensive analytical report containing evidence-based findings and recommendations.

3. Scope of Work

The Consultant shall be responsible for:

A. Research Preparation

• Review project documents and study objectives.
• Participate in inception meetings with the project team.
• Refine and finalize data collection tools, if required.
• Develop a fieldwork plan and schedule.

B. Data Collection

• Conduct Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with identified community groups and beneficiaries with logistics and travelling to the Consultant facilitated by the Shifa Foundation.
• Conduct Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with relevant stakeholders, government officials, community leaders, service providers, and other key actors.
• Ensure ethical data collection practices, including informed consent and confidentiality.
• Maintain detailed field notes and observation records.

C. Data Management and Analysis

• Review and organize field notes and interview records.
• Transcribe and compile qualitative data where required.
• Conduct thematic and qualitative analysis of collected information.
• Identify key themes, challenges, opportunities, and emerging trends.

D. Report Writing

• Prepare a draft analytical report.
• Incorporate feedback (if any) time to time.
• Submit a final analytical report with findings, conclusions, and recommendations.

4. Deliverables

1. Inception Note and Fieldwork Plan.
2. Completed FGDs and KIIs as agreed.
3. Field Notes and Data Compilation.
4. Draft Analytical Report.
5. Final Analytical Report incorporating feedback.

5. Duration of Assignment

The consultancy shall be conducted over a period of two weeks from the date of contract signing.

6. Reporting Line

The Consultant will report directly to the Project Manager/Program Manager designated by the Shifa Foundation (Sindh Office).

7. Required Qualifications

• PhD / Master’s degree in Economics, Social Sciences, Management Sciences, or related disciplines.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting qualitative research, FGDs, and KIIs.
• Strong analytical and report-writing skills.
• Experience working with NGOs, development agencies, and donor-funded projects.
• Familiarity with communities in Karachi and surrounding areas.

8. Confidentiality

All information, data, reports, and materials generated during the consultancy shall remain confidential and shall not be shared without prior written permission from the Shifa Foundation.