Uganda_NOFO_Q+A_response 2020 05 08 (1).docx

Uganda – Building Tolerance in Education Systems in Uganda

SFOP0006738

Questions & Answers 5 May 2020

Question: Should applicants who are planning to submit proposals for both parts of the program prepare an integrated proposal narrative, or should the two parts be clearly separated?

This will depend on circumstances. If implementers are planning to subcontract one or both parts of the proposal, it may make sense to separate the narrative to reflect the workflow. In general, CSO prefers an integrated proposal that clearly explains how the results from Part 1 (research) will be used to inform Part 2 (training).

Question: How should applicants address upcoming election, COVID, and other contingencies?

COVID-19: Applicants should plan as if they will be able to proceed with activities once the award is made. IN A SEPARATE ANNEX, applicants should provide an explanation of the following COVID-19 related contingencies:

1) What impacts will there be for your proposal if the start of activities is delayed by several months?

2) How could your activities be modified to be able to safely proceed in the event of prolonged COVID-19 related restrictions? What methodologies could be adapted? Which would need to be postponed until movement is less restricted? Would there be significant budget implications?

The Government of Uganda has extended a country-wide lockdown until May 19, but there has been no announcement on the impacts of COVID-19 on school closures after that time and it is unclear when and how schools will reopen. The school calendar will likely be adjusted to cover the remaining curricula of Term 1, as well as Terms 2 and 3, once schools reopen. At present, the second school term is scheduled to run from May 25-August 21, and the third from September to November.

Elections: Should the upcoming (scheduled for early 2021) elections lead to instability, the safety of the project staff and beneficiaries is the priority. Ongoing monitoring of the situation would inform how, if at all, the project may need to be modified.

Note: If a proposal is selected and funded, CSO will work with the contracted implementer to develop a robust Scope of Work and Monitoring and Evaluation Plan that address assumptions and contingencies related to COVID-19 and other potential complicating issues.

Addendum: There was a brief discussion about the role of coordination with local Muslim organizations and the Government of Uganda. CSO encourages applicants to address plans for outreach, obtaining support from various vested organizations, and managing sensitivities related to this project, as this will be vital to the success of the program.

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