Consulting Service for Conducting National Digital Skills Assessment, Framework Development and Implementation Plan — Eastern Africa Regional Digital Integration Project

Request for Expression of Interest (REOI) COUNTRY: Republic of South Sudan PROJECT: Eastern Africa Regional Digital Integration Project (EA-RDIP) PROJECT ID: P176181 GRANT No: IDA-E180 CONSULTING SERVICES: Consultancy Service for Conducting National Digital Skills Assessment, Framework Development and Implementation Plan DUTY STATION: MICT&PS Project Building, Juba- South Sudan Ref No: SS-MICT&PS-544329-CS-CQS The Government of the Republic South Sudan (GoSS), through the Ministry of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services (MICT&PS) has received a grant from the World Bank toward the cost of the Eastern Africa Regional Digital Integration Project (EA-RDIP), and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services. The project development objective is to address connectivity needs for countries in the Horn of Africa region. The project is structured around four main components: (i) Connectivity Market Development and Integration. This component will provide support to develop terrestrial cross-border connectivity and expand backbone and last-mile connectivity to rural and remote communities. (ii) Data Market Development and Integration. This component will provide support to the integration and development of the data market, to enable secure exchange, storage and processing of data across borders, including strengthening the environment for cybersecurity. (iii) Online Market Development and integration. This component will provide support to the integration and development of the online market, through targeted support for e-service enablers and digital skills. (iv) Project Management and implementation. This component will provide technical assistance and capacity support for project preparation and implementation. MICT&PS is seeking to use a portion of the proceed of the funds the Consultancy Service for Conducting National Digital Skills Assessment, Framework Development and Implementation Plan The consulting services (“Services”) is required to conduct a comprehensive national digital skills gap assessment focused on South Sudanese youth (ages 15-35), with the aim of identifying the current ("as-is") levels of foundational to advanced digital skills across regions and demographics, assessing the supply and demand for such skills in the labor market, and mapping existing training initiatives. The assignment will also include the selection and adaptation of a contextualized Digital Skills Competency Framework aligned with international standards, and a detailed, phased Implementation Plan that outlines institutional roles, delivery models, monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and key performance indicators (KPIs). This work will guide the strategic rollout of digital skills programs in South Sudan, supporting the MICT&PS's mandate to empower youth through digital capacity building, fostering economic diversification and job creation as detailed in the terms of reference. Duration: The assignment period is expected to take 6 calendar months from the date of contract signing. The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can be found at the following website: www.mictps.gov.ss/eardip-south-sudan or can be obtained at the address given below. The Ministry of Telecommunications and Postal Services now invites eligible service providers (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The attention of interested consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs 3.14, 3.16 and 3.17 of the World Bank’s ‘Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers’ July 2016 revised November 2017, August 2018, November 2020 and September 2023 [Procurement in investment Project Financing; Goods, Works, Non-Consulting and Consulting Services], setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. The best qualified firm to carry out the services will be selected in accordance with the Consultant’s Qualifications Based Selection (CQS) method set out in the Regulations and based on the following criteria: Minimum of 10 years of experience in conducting market studies, feasibility studies, labor market assessments, and developing local economic development plans, with a focus on entrepreneurship, employability, and skills development. Demonstrated expertise and a proven track record in managing sector studies, market assessments, and value chain analyses, specifically within the digital/ICT sector, including a focus on youth and women's economic empowerment. Strong understanding of TVET systems, private sector development dynamics, and international digital skills frameworks (e.g., DigComp, SFIA). Essential experience working in fragile and conflict-affected states (FCAS), with direct and demonstrable experience in South Sudan or the wider Horn of Africa region. The technical and managerial organization of the Consultant. (Provide only the structure of the organization, general qualifications, and number of key staff (Do not provide CV of staff). Key experts will not be evaluated at the shortlisting stage. Consultants may associate with other consultants in the form of a joint venture or a sub consultancy to enhance their qualifications. The nature of association, whether it is a joint venture or a sub consultancy, should clearly be stated. In case of joint venture, the Consultant leading the joint venture should be mentioned. A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Consultant’s Qualifications Based Selection (CQS) method set out in the Consultant Guidelines. Interested Consultant may obtain further information at the address below during office hours from 10:00 to 16:00 hours South Sudan on all working days. Expressions of interest (EOI) must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by e-mail) by Jun 25, 2026, at 5.00 P.M (South Sudan Time) marked clearly as “Expression of Interest for Conducting National Digital Skills Assessment, Framework Development and Implementation Plan” Attention: Project Manager Project Implementation Unit (PIU), Ministry of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services Location: Juba, Opp. Bank of South Sudan Republic of South Sudan E-mail: procurement.eardip@gmail.com with a copy to eardippiu23@gmail.com