Next Generation is a global research programme initiated in countries that are experiencing a period of significant change, with the purpose of ensuring that young people’s voices are heard and their interests properly represented in decisions that will have lasting implications for their lives. The stated aims of the programme are to:
- Understand youth attitudes and aspirations
- Amplify youth voice
- Support better youth policy-making
This research has been conducted in countries including Pakistan, Tanzania, the UK, Colombia, Turkey and South Africa; there is currently work underway in Ireland/Northern Ireland, Myanmar and Germany. The study seeks to analyse the conditions that support young people and allow them to reach their potential as fulfilled, productive and active citizens. The research is always completed with a series of recommendations based on supporting policy change.
We look to see how one or more significant changes or periods of activity – particularly when a number of events or circumstances come together – affects young people’s view of themselves and their place in the world. As examples: the UK research was sparked by the referendum on whether the UK should leave the European Union; in South Africa, by the sense that the ‘born free’ (post-apartheid) generation are coming of age and are dissatisfied with the post-apartheid social contract; and in Colombia, by a young generation coming to terms with the new peace settlement.
On 2nd April 2018, Abiy Ahmed was sworn in as Prime Minister of Ethiopia. In his acceptance speech he promised a reforming agenda, including political and economic reforms, promoting unity among Ethiopians, and the pledge to engage with Eritrea on resolving the long-running border dispute.
A number of reforms have taken place, including the release of thousands of political prisoners, the ending of the state of war with Eritrea by agreeing to give up disputed border territory, the ending of the state of emergency that was imposed to quell two-and-a-half years of deadly anti-government protests, the announcement of an economic liberalisation plan, allowing dissidents to return home and the unblocking of hundreds of websites and TV channels. Most recently, he has appointed women to half of the ministerial posts.
How does this mood of optimism and reform affect young Ethiopians? Young Ethiopians have previously felt excluded from decision-making and denied the chance to contribute to their economies and societies. In the past, the frustration experienced by large youth populations has led to instability and unrest.
Next Generation Ethiopia will examine young people’s sense of their lives now and in the future. Do they feel like they actually have a stake and say in the social and political landscape? Do they have hopes, aspirations and dreams in their country? Do they have an appetite for social change among their generation?
Do they feel their voices are being heard by their elders, by leaders, by the media and opinion formers? What is their engagement in the civic, economic, social and democratic life of their country and what are their aspirations on influencing their community, country and the wider world?
In addition to this, the report will assess the policies that are needed to support young people across Ethiopia in achieving their potential as creative, fulfilled and active citizens.
Further details can be found in the Request for Proposals document which can be downloaded below.
Please note, new documents have been published below which supersede those previously published. Please download and use the updated documents below for your application.
ABOUT THE ROLE
We are looking to commission Next Generation Ethiopia and examine how young people there are reacting to ongoing change.
The Next Generation Ethiopia report will ask a nationally representative sample (95% confidence rate or higher) of young people aged 15-29 who are Ethiopian nationals in Ethiopia about their experiences, their engagement in the civic, economic, social and democratic life of their country and their aspirations on influencing their community, country and wider world. This forms part of the global Next Generation series led by the British Council.
The research design is expected to include:
- Desk Research: a comprehensive review of published research on the attitudes, aspirations and behaviours of young people in Ethiopia
- Next Generation Survey: an opinion survey that can be implemented across the country by telephone, face-to-face, or online
- In-depth Discussions: qualitative research with young people and other stakeholders to explore in depth themes emerging from the survey data
- Analysis of Data, Conclusions and Recommendations: with a strong focus on policy recommendations
The consultants will be expected to lead the assignment, but also to work alongside British Council staff in the UK and Ethiopia to develop the methodology required as the research develops.
- QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
The British Council is looking to appoint a reputable research provider with the following qualities:
- Strong qualitative and quantitative research portfolio, evidenced by previous projects
- Expertise in conducting interviews and identifying case studies – evidenced by previous research projects and consultancies
- Strong dedicated team with suitable experience and qualifications
- Knowledge and expertise of the country of Ethiopia
- Experience of working with young people, and with evidence of showing how they can engage and amplify youth voice in this research
- Real understanding of the Next Generation brief
- Offering good value for money
- Capacity to deliver within an agreed timeframe
The final methodology used for this research project will be agreed by the appointed researchers in consultation with the British Council.
- HOW TO APPLY
Interested consultants are requested to respond to the tender document with details on how you propose to approach the research objectives. All proposals received should include:
- evidence of relevant knowledge and experience
- details of approach and methodology to be used
- qualifications/experience of the team members who will be involved in this project
- detailed timescale
- detailed costing plan
The deadline for clarification questions is 15 November 17.00 GMT and the deadline for completed responses by potential suppliers is 1700 GMT on 30 November 2018.
Please submit you’re your questions and completed response via e-mail to the British Council UK Research Team at Tigist.Zerihun@et.britishcouncil.org titled Next Generation Ethiopia.
Please note, we can only respond to successful applicants and only within five working days of the application deadline.