SOW for Male Allyship Workshop

USAID Urja Nepal

Scope of Work (SoW)

CONDUCTING MALE ALLYSHIP TRAININGS FOR STAFFS IN THE

ENERGY SECTOR OF NEPAL

I. Project Overview:

Nepal is endowed with immense potential for generation of electricity from hydropower, solar and wind resources. Development of quality sectoral policies and regulatory frameworks, building high performing electric utilities, strong private sector engagement and robust cross border power trades are essential to capitalized on Nepal’s energy potential which can in turn contribute towards the country’s prosperity. Urja Nepal supported by the American people through United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by Deloitte Consulting LLP builds upon the achievement and lessons of USAID’s Nepal Hydropower Development Program in supporting to develop the energy sector of Nepal. Urja Nepal aims to create a financially viable electricity sector that provides affordable, reliable, and secure power and enables the entry of private sector investment into the Nepal market through four objectives: 

Objective 1: Utility Performance and Relevant Sector Policies are Improved

Objective 2: Advanced Energy Systems Deployed

Objective 3: Increased Private Sector Engagement

Objective 4: Cross Border Electricity Trade between Nepal and its Neighbors Advanced

USAID Urja Nepal is committed to gender equality; human right; women, minorities and youth empowerment and meaningful engagement of men and youths in addressing these issues. The event as a milestone in targeting active and meaningful engagement of men and youths to end gender inequality. This concept note sets the foundation for a transformative initiative aimed at achieving gender equality in Nepal's energy sector. By engaging men and women employees, the Male Allies initiative will foster a more inclusive, supportive, and productive GESI friendly workplace in Public and Private sectors including Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) and its line agencies. Based on the demand, the event will be focused on the Foundational concept of GESI and its importance in inclusive development.

II. Introduction:

The Male Allyship event will facilitate learning and exchange among mid and higher level personnels on “Engaging Men in advancing gender equality”. The deliberations will focus on practical approaches to address and dismantle gender stereotypes, encourage men and Youths to take shared responsibility in constructive roles, and strengthen the men engage initiation to foster greater involvement of men in gender equality initiatives in NEA. It will also emphasize the importance of promoting responsible behavior and ensuring accountability among Men & Youths for a gender-equal energy sector. The energy sector in Nepal is pivotal for the country's economic development and social progress. The Male Allies initiative aims to address this imbalance by engaging both male and female employees in creating a more inclusive and supportive work environment.

The capacity building training and workshop is expected to be attended in person by around 30-40 personnel from NEA in one event in one day training and/or workshop, including mid and higher-level officials from NEA. To make the event more effective, commitment from participants to attend the event for the full duration is expected. Since the event is predominantly targeted to Mens, it is recommended that men and women from NEA will participate in higher numbers.

Urja Nepal seeks an experienced Consultant to support the delivery of this important workshop come training, which will be involved collaboration with the project’s GESI specialist. The activity may be scaled to other organizations across the energy sector.  By focusing on below outlined objectives, methodologies, and activities, you can effectively engage men as allies for gender equality in the energy sector of Nepal, ultimately leading to a more inclusive and equitable workplace.

III. Objectives: 

Engaging men as allies for gender equality in the energy sector of Nepal is crucial for fostering an inclusive environment. Here are objectives, methodologies, and activities to consider:

1. Increase Awareness on Male Allyship: Enhance understanding of gender equality and its importance within the energy sector.
2. Promote Male Allyship: Encourage men to actively participate in advocating for gender equality and supporting women in the workplace.
3. Build Skills for Male Allyship: Equip men with the skills and tools needed to challenge gender biases and stereotypes.
4. Create Support Networks: Establish networks for men to share experiences, strategies, and best practices in promoting gender equality.
5. Promote Gender Equality and Inclusivity: Create a balanced and equitable GESI friendly workplace by addressing gender biases and promoting equal opportunities for men and women.
6. Engage Male Employees: Encourage male employees to actively participate in gender equality initiatives and become advocates for their female colleagues.
7. Enhance Organizational Culture: Foster an inclusive and supportive organizational culture in NEA that values diversity and gender equality.
8. Develop and propose innovative, practical, and context-specific constructive roles that can be implemented to enhance Male Allyship, inclusivity and equity.
9. Engagement of males for male allyship led by both male and female: Actively engage with a diverse range of stakeholders in energy sectors, including local communities, government bodies, hydropower developers, and private sectors ensuring that proposed strategies and male allyship activities are more inclusive and widely supported.

IV. Methodology

1. Workshops and Training: Conduct interactive sessions focusing on gender issues, the benefits of diversity, and the role of men as allies.
2. Peer Learning Groups: Form small groups where men can discuss challenges, share experiences, and develop collective strategies for promoting gender equality.
3. Awareness Campaigns: Use social media, posters, and community events to spread messages about the importance of male allyship in gender equality.
4. Partnerships Building and Management: Collaborate with other agencies like MoEWRI, DoED, AEPC, IPPAN, women’s organizations, and educational institutions to leverage resources and expertise.

V. Activities

• GESI Educational Seminars: Organize seminars featuring speakers who can share insights on gender equality and the positive impacts of male allyship in the workplace.
• Mentorship Programs: Pair male employees with female colleagues to foster professional relationships and promote understanding of gender dynamics.
• Role-Playing Scenarios: Conduct role-playing exercises to help men practice responding to situations involving gender bias and discrimination.
• Community Engagement Projects: Involve men in community service projects that support women's empowerment, such as renewable energy initiatives aimed at women-led businesses.
• Feedback and Reflection Sessions: Regularly hold sessions for participants to reflect on their experiences, share successes, and discuss areas for improvement during mainstreaming gender Equality and Social Inclusion in NEA.

VI. Scope of Assignment:

The Consultant will undertake the following tasks:

• Organize male allyship consultation with MEA staff including both men and women to analyze relevant policies, regulations, and legal frameworks that demands Male Allyship in Nepal’s energy sector, especially in NEA. 
• Assessment of Current Mechanisms in NEA for male engagement to advancing Gender Equality
• Evaluate the effectiveness of current mechanisms employment programs, male allyship efforts and conduct a GESI lens SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) to provide a comprehensive assessment of current practices on males’ roles to strengthen GESI in NEA.
• Organize Innovative training on male allyship through engaging males in NEA for Gender Equality
• Develop innovative and context-specific training activities that address identified gaps and challenges. Ensure proposed training activities are on an incremental basis focused on feasibility and sustainability and aligned with the mandatory requirement of GESI. Also, propose pragmatic mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of the new activities on male allyships.

VII. Validation and Feedback

• Present preliminary findings and proposed solutions to mainstreaming male allyship through consultations in the training workshops. Gather and incorporate feedback from participants to refine and finalize the proposed male allyship activities. Ensure transparency and accountability in the validation process.

VIII. Reporting

• Prepare a comprehensive report detailing the methodology, findings, proposed activities for male allyship, and recommendations. Include case studies and best -fit examples of Male Allyship in energy sectors.

IX. Final Report:

• Submit the final report to the Urja Nepal, along with an executive summary and presentation slides for dissemination to NEA.

X. Deliverables:

1. Initial assessment on needs and obstacles to promoting Male Allyship, including a GESI lens SWOT analysis on NEA’s mechanism to adopt the male allyship concept and content
2. Inception report: outline of methodology, Activities, Tools, work plan, and timeline.
3. Male Engagement Strategies within NEA for advancement of Gender Equality and Social Inclusion
4. Conduct at least 5 workshops and/or trainings to all staffs of NEA including Power Distribution Centers (engaging 30-40 persons in a training in a day) 
5. Workshop Outcome Report: Summary of feedback from NEA’s male and female; based on the consultations 
6. Final Report: Comprehensive report on ANNEXES for NEA’s existing gaps in Male Allyship Strategy Activities and further recommendations on Male Allyship Approaches with sustainability.
7. Submit e-copy and hard copies of the Presentation Slides and Resource Materials applied in the workshops and Training on Male Allyship.

XI. Timeline:

• The consultancy assignment is expected to be completed within 60 days of the commencement date.

XII. Basic Qualifications

The Consultant should possess:

Educational Background:

• Degree in social sciences, gender studies, human resources, or a related field in energy.
• Additional certifications in gender equality, Male Allyship, diversity training, or related areas are advantageous.

Professional Experience:

• At least 5 years of experience in gender equality, diversity, or male allyship training, particularly in the energy sector or similar industries.
• Proven track record in facilitating male allyship workshops and training sessions aimed at promoting gender equality and male allyship.
• Extensive experience in conducting Male Allyship Training programs, particularly in the hydropower sector.
• Professional experience in assessing and designing GESI Policy, Strategy and GESI activities in the energy sector for Male Allyships.
• Proven track record in and participatory research and consultation methods in GESI lens.
• Strong analytical and report-writing skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely.
• Familiarity with the gender dynamics, socio- economic and socio-cultural context of Nepal is highly desirable.

Cultural Competence:

• Strong understanding of the socio-cultural context of Nepal, particularly related to gender dynamics in the energy sector.
• Experience working with diverse groups, including men and women from different backgrounds.

Training Skills:

• Demonstrated ability to engage participants, foster discussions, and create an inclusive learning environment.
• Experience in using interactive training methods and adult learning principles.

Language Proficiency:

• Proficiency in English and Nepali (or other relevant local languages) to effectively communicate with participants.

XIII. Evaluation Criteria:

Proposals will be evaluated based on:

1. Relevance of Experience:

• Experience specifically related to male allyship and gender equality in the workplace.
• Previous work in the energy sector or with organizations focused on energy 

2. Training Approach:

• Clear methodology for conducting the training, including interactive techniques, case studies, and practical exercises.
• Ability to customize the training content on male allyship to meet the specific needs of the energy sector in Nepal.

3. Past Performance:

• References and feedback from previous clients regarding the effectiveness of male allyship training sessions and workshops.
• Demonstrated impact of past training initiatives (e.g., participant feedback, changes in workplace culture).

4. Communication Skills:

• Clarity and effectiveness in conveying concepts related to gender equality and male allyship.
• Ability to facilitate discussions and encourage participation from all attendees.

5. Innovative Solutions:

• Evidence of creative and practical solutions offered in past engagements that address GESI related challenges in the workplace.

6. Commitment to Evaluation:

• A plan for evaluating the effectiveness of the training, including pre-and post-assessments, participant feedback, and follow-up actions.

The proposal must be submitted by 20th November 2024 to be considered in the bidding process.

Other requirements:

• The Consultant is expected to submit proposal in English language only.
• Understanding of the Scope of Work (SOW) and its objectives.
• Methodology and approach to achieving the goals of Male Allyship training.
• Relevant experience and qualifications of the Consultant.
• Detailed work plan and timeline, demonstrating the ability to meet the deadlines.
• The bidder is expected to strictly adhere to the timelines proposed for the project completion. Any delay in any of the deliverable shall be reported and aligned with Urja Nepal in advance. 
• The deliverables must be acceptable to Urja Nepal. 
• The Consultant should at all times of the assignment possess the copyrights (licenses in the case of software packages) for the documents, photographs, technical papers, standards used in the study. All documents need to be treated with confidentiality. The bidder may be required to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) that uses an Urja-provided template.

Contact Information:

Narayan Shrestha

Urja Nepal

nshrestha@urja-nepal.com

+977 980 116 0972

Note: This document does not constitute a commitment on the part of Urja Nepal to fund any proposed project.