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QUESTION
RESPONSE
1
When does USAID anticipate start dates for the additional activities that make up the broader
Fall/Winter 2014
2
Can USAID provide a timeline for when the public universities and regional vocational offices will be selected, as this will impact the implementation plan? Will USAID finalize MOUs with the selected universities and Regional Vocational Education Offices prior to award, or after award? If the intent is to develop MOUs after award, what role will the contractor have in developing these MOUs? Or will USAID be responsible for this?
Sites will be confirmed prior to award. MOI's will be signed between USAID and the partner ministries.
3
Are there additional semi-autonomous entities (i.e., ANAPEC and OFPPT) with which CDA will coordinate?
The CDA should coordinate with numerous entities. As for specific institutions, that depends on the approach proposed by the offeror.
4
Can USAID confirm that the Contractor will not in fact be required to report against indicator GNDR 7 noted on p. 17, “Percentage of target population that views Gender-Based Violence (GBV) as less acceptable after participating in or being exposed to USG programming?”
USAID will require the implementer to report on this indicator. Sexual harrassement is regrettably prevalent in Morocco and the Career Development Activity is well positioned to change young people's perceptions on what is acceptable behaviour in the work place.
5
Would USAID consider reconciling the instructions provided in L.4.2, beginning on page 79, with the evaluation criteria presented on pages 84-85? For example, although the instructions on page 79 ask offerors to address how we intend to carry out the scope of work, the technical evaluation criteria focus only on cross-cutting principles.
Some of the sub-factors may be considered cross cutting themes, but they are fundamental to successful execution of the activity. Sustainability and impact (or results) are not really cross cutting themes. Gender and IT, on the other hand, are normally considered cross cutting themes. Regrettably, in many activities, “cross cutting” themes receive short shrift. The sub-factors listed under the technical approach will guide the assessment of the proposals by USAID’s technical evaluation committee.
6
Given that offers are limited to 15 pages for the technical proposal, would USAID allow us to include the implementation plan, staffing plan and draft M&E plan including indicator list as annexes that do not count against the technical proposal page limit? Would USAID consider excluding other full-page tables and graphics from the page count (e.g., organizational chart) for inclusion in an annex?
The page limit for the technical proposal is being revised to 20 pages not including annexes. The page limit for annexes is 30 pages. Personnel résumés, tables summarizing qualifications of proposed personnel, past performance summary tables and past performance report forms, branding implementation and marking plan, cover page, table of contents, and dividers are not included in the 20 page limitation. Graphics, tables, and exhibits are included in the page limits regardless of whether they are found in the main body the proposal or the annexes.
7
Page 80, Section L.4.2 (f): Could USAID clarify whether key personnel CVs must not exceed three pages inclusive of references?
Yes.
8
Are Letters of Commitment required for key personnel? If so, can they be placed in an annex?
Yes and yes.
9
Please confirm that USAID has included the Participant Certifications – Narcotics Offenses and Drug Trafficking form for our internal purposes and that these do not have to be included in either the technical or the cost proposal?
These certifications are not required as part of this solicitation.
10
Could USAID clarify that Offerors are to submit five past performance for the prime contractor and five past performance references for each major subcontractor? Could USAID also confirm that the past performance reports be submitted only for those projects that do not have CPARs?
Offerors should shall submit five past performance for prime contractors and for any major subcontractors (providing a significant portion of the technical work on the project). Past performance reports should be submitted for all projects that do not have a CPARS record, but a reference number or data point for the ones with a CPARS record is sufficient.
11
Could USAID amend the page limit for the technical proposal to 20 pages to better allow Offerors to respond?
Yes, see previous response to question regarding page limitations. Please keep in mind that the page limits are there to encourage clear and concise writing.
12
On p. 85, M.2.e, USAID notes that the Offeror’s preliminary M&E plan will be evaluated “for reasonableness in terms of targets, indicators, collection methodology and cost associated with executing the M&E plan.” Can USAID confirm that the M&E related costs included in the cost proposal will be evaluated, since Offerors are generally instructed not to include any cost information in technical proposals?
M&E costs will be evaluated as part of the cost proposal.
13
In order to orient Offerors as to the relative magnitude of the program, would USAID consider providing a range for the expected dollar value of the project?
No - USAID seeks to increase competition on price, legitimize the quality of the proposals, and gauge the offeror's understanding of the RFP. Public data points exist to give the offeror an idea of the range.
14
On page 18, in Section C, in the paragraph titled Program Management and Personnel Requirements, it states: “The Contractor shall establish an office in Morocco to provide necessary support for management, implementation, and monitoring and evaluation. The office shall provide all administrative and management support for the Contractor, including implementation of financial and accounting systems for procurement, arranging for and supporting in-country travel and training for long and short-term personnel, processing and hosting key or short-term consultants, and managing sub-grants…”a. Can you please clarify if USAID is envisioning a sub-grants program under this contract?b. If so, could you please provide an estimated level of grants that should be included?
The activity will not include sub-grants. The reference to sub-grants have been removed.
15
USAID has set a limit of 15 pages for the Technical Proposal. We are concerned that, given the volume and complexity of information that is requested, this number is insufficient to provide responsive proposals. We therefore respectfully request increasing the page limit for the Technical Proposal to 25 pages.
The page limit for the technical proposal is being revised to 20 pages not including annexes. The page limit for annexes is 30 pages. Personnel résumés, tables summarizing qualifications of proposed personnel, past performance summary tables and past performance report forms, branding implementation and marking plan, cover page, table of contents, and dividers are not included in the 20 page limitation. Graphics, tables, and exhibits are included in the page limits regardless of whether they are found in the main body the proposal or the annexes.
16
Further to the question immediately above, in addition to the information listed on page 79 of the RFP, which lists those items not included in the page limit, could you please confirm that the following alsodoes not count against the technical proposal page limit? None of the items listed below are specified as separate from the page limit, Cover Letter, Acronym List, Exec Summary, M&E Plan, Implementation Plan
M&E Plan, Implementation Plan and Executive Summary are included in the 20 page limit.
17
On page 81 in Section L.5, Instructions for Preparation of the Cost Proposal, it states: “The Offeror must submit the cover page (Section A) of this request for cost proposal [Standard Form (SF) 33, "Solicitation, Offer, and Award"], with blocks 12 through 18 completed.” However, an SF 33 is not included in the solicitation. Could you please provide the referenced SF 33?
SF-33 is attached to the solicitation amendment
18
On page 82, in Section L.5 b) it states: “In general, salaries for locally employed staff should not exceed the Local Compensation Plan for USAID/Morocco.” Could you please provide the current Local Compensation Plan for Morocco so offerors may use it for guidance as required?
No. Offerors should determine the appropriate market based compensation packages for their project staff. The Local Compensation Plan is an internal U.S. Government document. Offerors are only supposed to comply with the upper limit of the LCP in accordance with AIDAR 722.170. The maximum allowable salary under the LCP for Morocco is XXXXXX.
19
On page 86 of the RFP, in Section M.2, it states that “Prime Offerors who are not small business concerns will be evaluated on their performance in using small business concerns as subcontractors, joint ventures, and in other teaming arrangements”. Could USAID please confirm that offerors should submit, in accordance with FAR 19.001, the information listed below as an annex? A narrative summary of the organization's use of small businesses - Up to 10 recent eSRS forms (the required USG standard forms are 1-2 pages each) - 3 small business references
Requested information can be submitted as an Annex.
20
Page 81 of the RFP states that offerors should fill out a past performance matrix for up to 5 of the most recent and relevant projects over the past 5 years. a. Are offerors expected to fill out the past performance matrix in lieu of the Past Performance Reference form or is the expectation that offerors fill the past performance matrix and also add the Past Performance Reference form as an annex. b. Can USAID please clarify if the five Past Performance Reference form requirement is only for the prime offeror or for the total Past Performance Reference forms required? Can we include additional Past Performance Reference forms for sub-contractors in addition to the five for the prime?
Offerors are expected to fill out the Past Performance Matrix Only. Past Peformance requirement should be submitted for both the Prime and Subcontractors.
21
Is there a specific format/ font/ line spacing that USAID would like offerors to use for this proposal?
Font should NOT be smaller than 11 point.
22
Is it possible to include past performance references, implementation plan, Monitoring and Evaluation plan and organizational chart as an annex?
M&E Plan and the Implementation Plan should be in the technical proposal. The other items can be provided in the annexes.
23
Would USAID/Morocco consider allowing a few days delay between the electronic and hard copy proposal submissions?
The hardcopy submission has been eliminated.
24
Are offerors required to submit certifications and representation from all subcontractors proposed or is it only required from partners with 20% or more of the total proposed cost?
Certifications and representation are required from all subcontractors. Please note that this required can be accomplished online at SAM.gov.
25
Can USAID/Morocco please provide an estimated budget range for this activity?
No - USAID seeks to increase competition on price, legitimize the quality of the proposals, and gauge the offeror's understanding of the RFP. Public data points exist to give the offeror an idea of the range.
26
We kindly request that USAID/Morocco provide the most recent local compensation plan.
No. Offerors should determine the appropriate market based compensation packages for their project staff. The Local Compensation Plan is an internal U.S. Government document. Offerors are only supposed to comply with the upper limit of the LCP in accordance with AIDAR 722.170. The maximum allowable salary under the LCP for Morocco is XXXXXX.
27
Can USAID please provide a funding amount or range of funding that is available for this activity?
No - USAID seeks to increase competition on price and legitimize the quality of the proposals. Public data points exist to give the offeror any idea of the range.
28
Could USAID please confirm that the activities described on page 10 in the last three paragraphs before the Career Services in Morocco heading are to be procured separately from this solicitation? Namely, are the “innovative public private partnerships to upgrade soft and hard skill acquisition in critical growth sectors constrained by skill shortages;” the “Employers Hiring Data Clearinghouse;” and the “targeted technical assistance in areas such as monitoring and evaluation, results-based management, public private partnerships, and policy reform” for the Ministry of Employment separate activities that complement those procured under this RFP? If so, could USAID please provide either the name of the contractor for each of these activities or the schedule for procurement of these services?
The activities listed on page 10 are not a part of the CDA. These activities are in varying stages of procurement and USAID cannot provide further information on them at this point.
29
Page 13 the RFP states that the program will be implemented in “three Regional Vocational Education Offices.” Please clarify where the Mission expects these centers to be physically housed, e.g., within individual training centers or in another location.
Within the Délégations Régionales de la Formation Professionnelle
30
As part of the services offered in Career Services, is the Mission interested in supporting trainings or services for youth pursuing self-employment?
Entrepreneurship is one career pathway. USAID does not see the role of the CDA as providing in-depth training on any particular pathway, rather the centers may direct student and recent graduates to existing training programs and/or establish mentoring or internship programs that link up students with successful entrepreneurs.
31
Page 14 of the RFP talks about the option year activities under Component 1. How should offerors budget for these activities? How many additional sites should be contemplated for budgeting purposes? Similarly, can USAID provide budget guidance for the option year for Component 2?
The option year budget will depend primarily on the model proposed and implemented by the offeror.
32
Page 16 mentions a steering committee for the Youth Employability Project that will meet on a quarterly basis. Should offerors budget anything to convene this steering committee or will USAID convene this committee and absorb all costs associated with bringing steering committee members together?
USAID will cover expenses in terms of venue and catering for the steering committee. Offerors should budget staff time in terms of preparing and participating in these meetings. USAID will play the role of convener.
33
Page 16 states: “The ministries have also agreed to mobilize personnel to staff the centers. The qualifications and exact number of staff at this point are unknown, and therefore, it is prudent to assume they will require training and their numbers may need to be supplemented.” Have the ministries also committed fund the additional time that trainers will require to provide these services? Additionally, have the ministries committed to create and fund appropriate professional development paths for these personnel to incentivize their continued participation as career development service providers following the end of the project?
The two ministries have endorsed the activity and offered to support its implementation. Still for budgeting purposes, the offeror should assume that they will cover all staffing expenses. As for the professional development of these staff, this is an area where the implementer should propose a plan based on the existing programs and the existing competencies of staff working in this field.
34
Given that the following page of the solicitation (page 18) states that this project “will not engage in policy reform directly,” could USAID please clarify what policy activities are appropriate to include in the proposed program design in order to address the sustainability of the career centers and work readiness training?
The offeror should propose those policy activities that contribute to the results stated in the RFP. Still, USAID does not see the implementer engaging directly in policy reform.
35
Page 25 of the RFP, section F.7, states that all reports and other outputs shall be in the English and French language. Please confirm that this is a requirement as there are budgetary implications.
As stated in the RFP: USAID expects high quality reporting in both English and French, with the exception of financial reports. All reports shall be written in English and French unless otherwise specified by the COR.
36
Page 77, section L.3.2, details the requirements for hard copies. Would USAID please consider allowing hard copies to be submitted following the electronic submission on July 7? Specifically, if an offeror’s electronic application is submitted by the deadline, will it will be acceptable for hard (paper) copies to arrive later so long as they are postmarked by the deadline?
Electronic versions are due July 7th. Hardcopies are no longer required.
37
Please confirm that the Cover Page and Table of Contents mentioned on page 79 do not count toward the 15 page limit.
The page limit for the technical proposal is being revised to 20 pages not including annexes. The page limit for annexes is 30 pages. Personnel résumés, tables summarizing qualifications of proposed personnel, past performance summary tables and past performance report forms, branding implementation and marking plan, cover page, table of contents, and dividers are not included in the 20 page limitation. Graphics, tables, and exhibits are included in the page limits regardless of whether they are found in the main body the proposal or the annexes.
38
Could USAID please confirm the required annexes? There are a number of different annexes mentioned in different sections of the RFP: a. Is a table summarizing qualifications of proposed personnel (mentioned on page 79) required? b. Is the Implementation Plan mentioned in the Management Approach section on page 80 to be included in the 15 pages of technical text or should this be included instead as an annex? c.Can a draft Performance Monitoring Plan be included as an Annex?
a) required annexes are listed in the RFP b) the implementation plan is a part of the technical proposal and falls within the 20 page limit. c) the draft M&E plan should also be included in the technical proposal.
39
Does USAID expect the 15 page technical approach to include any text regarding past performance or will the required past performance matrix annex provide sufficient information to evaluate past performance?
Per the RFP: The Past performance references required by this section must be included as an annex or attachment to the technical proposal. Note the new page limits: 20 pages for the technical proposal and 30 pages for annexes.
40
Page 82 mentions that local staff salaries should not exceed the Local Compensation Plan. Could USAID please provide this plan to all offerors?
No. Offerors should determine the appropriate market based compensation packages for their project staff. The Local Compensation Plan is an internal U.S. Government document. Offerors are only supposed to comply with the upper limit of the LCP in accordance with AIDAR 722.170. The maximum allowable salary under the LCP for Morocco is XXXXXX.
41
For the contract resulting from this RFP, does USAID have a specific start date in mind?
USAID expects implementation to start during the Fall
42
Section L.5 (pages 81-83) – Cost proposal instructions only seem to require the SF-33, budget and budget narrative. However, the solicitation includes templates for 1420, small business subcontracting plan, Certifications, and SF-LLL. Can USAID provide a complete list of cost requirements? Also, please clarify whether these items are required only from the prime or also from proposed subcontractors?
The listed forms are the only required forms and Bio-data sheets (SF1420-17) and SF-LLL are required for Prime and subcontractors.
43
Would USAID please provide the SF 33 for this solicitation?
SF-33 is attached to Solicitation Amendment
44
As Morocco is not considered a covered country (as defined in ADS 206.3.3), would USAID please confirm that the PARTICIPANT CERTIFICATION – NARCOTICS OFFENSES AND DRUG TRAFFICKING is not applicable to this solicitation?
Yes, USAID confirms that these certifications are not required as part of this solicitation.
45
Is there a MB limit (per email) for the electronic submission? Is there a limit on the number of attachments (per email) for the electronic submission?
There is no MB limit - just page limits. That being said, it is the responsibility of each offeror to ensure that their proposal has been delivered successfully. So, while USAID does not believe there is a MB limit for the emails, each Offeror should make sure that their submissions are received on time. USAID will not take responsibility for rejected emails.
46
Please confirm that documents in Microsoft version 2010 are acceptable.
Yes
47
Does USAID intend to select universities and regional vocational education offices that are in the same region (for a total of 3 regions) or does USAID expect to select universities and regional vocational education office in different regions (for a total of up to 6 regions)?
It is unlikely that the centers will be in the same region, although USAID will use geographic considerations before making the final site selection in coordination with the two partner ministries.
48
Section C.4.3 of the RFP states: “The office shall provide all administrative and management support for the Contractor, including … managing sub‐grants.” Section H.23 states: “If the contractor plans any new activities, including grants‐under‐contract activities …” Would USAID please confirm whether grants under contracts (GUCs) are authorized under this program and, if so, clarify its expectations for grants under this activity?
The activity will not include sub-grants. The reference to sub-grants have been removed.
49
The language is Section H.24 is more restrictive than FAR 52.227-14, which is also incorporated into the RFP. Would USAID please confirm that FAR 52.227-14 shall take precedence?
H.24 takes precedence in areas where it is more restrictive. If this is overly restrictive for the project, USAID may reconsider this determination during project implementation.
50
Given the US Federal holiday on July 4, 2014, would USAID consider extending the deadline for submissions?
The deadline remains July 7th. Hardcopies are no longer required.
51
What is the CFDA number for this program?
USAID Morocco does not believe there is a specific CFDA number for country specific projects.
52
Could USAID consider providing a budget figure for the base and option years?
No - USAID seeks to increase competition on price, legitimize the quality of the proposals, and gauge the offeror's understanding of the RFP. Public data points exist to give the offeror an idea of the range.
53
The RFP states that six career development centers will be established in Morocco. As the locations are TBD, would USAID consider providing illustrative locations for budgeting purposes?
Illustrative examples include medium and large urban areas throughout Morocco such as Fes, Meknes, Agadir, Oujda, Casablanca, Errachidia
54
Could USAID confirm that graphics, tables, and exhibits are exempt from the page count in the technical proposal?
No, graphics, tables, and exhibits are not exempt from the page limit
55
May offerors include additional annexes?
Yes but there is a 30 page limit for annexes that does not include the required attachments listed in Section L
56
On Page 80 in Section L.4.2.e, the RFP calls for an Implementation Plan. Can USAID confirm that the Implementation Plan may be included as an annex to the technical proposal?
The implementation plan should be a part of the core proposal and should not be included as an annex
57
Are we required to submit biodatas for just key personnel, or for all named staff?
Biodatas are required for key personnel and immediate hires.
58
In Section L.4.1, “Annexes” are listed as part of the proposal format. Besides the Past Performance Section, are there other sections that should be included in the Annexes?
See page 78 - 79
59
Can you please provide the most recent version of the local compensation plan for the Morocco mission?
No. Offerors should determine the appropriate market based compensation packages for their project staff. The Local Compensation Plan is an internal U.S. Government document. Offerors are only supposed to comply with the upper limit of the LCP in accordance with AIDAR 722.170. The maximum allowable salary under the LCP for Morocco is XXXXXX.
60
Would USAID please confirm that graphics, such as organizational charts, do not count against the 15-page limit?
The page limit for the technical proposal is being revised to 20 pages not including annexes. The page limit for annexes is 30 pages. Personnel résumés, tables summarizing qualifications of proposed personnel, past performance summary tables and past performance report forms, branding implementation and marking plan, cover page, table of contents, and dividers are not included in the 20 page limitation. Graphics, tables, and exhibits are included in the page limits regardless of whether they are found in the main body the proposal or the annexes.
61
According to USAID's 2004 disability policy, the Agency "seeks to integrate disability into all its programs" and indicates that economic empowerment and job training are Sectors of Disability-Focused Work, specifically stating USAID programs seek to “Integrate youth and adults with disabilities into the competitive workforce by facilitating job training, internship opportunities and educating employers on best practices for hiring people with disabilities.” This RFP is an unique opportunity to make this approach a reality in Morocco since unemployment is a main issue for youth with disabilities. Since the RFP places emphasis on gender, could the mission provide further guidance on how proposals should work to include persons with disabilities as beneficiaries of this program?
Yes, offerors are encouraged to review the policy and seek opportunities to implement it.
62
Can the Mission provide further guidance on whether or not including youth with disabilities as a part of the proposed beneficiaries would be viewed favorably by the mission?
Yes, such efforts will be viewed favorably by the Mission.
63
P.18, “Program Management and Personnel Requirements” specifies that the Contractor will be responsible for managing sub-grants. Could USAID provide a general estimate of the target size of the grant fund?
The activity will not include sub-grants. The reference to sub-grants have been removed.
64
Grants under contracts clause is missing from the RFP. Is it USAID's intention to issue approval in the award under ADS 302 for the GUCs program?
See above response
65
19, D. Personnel Requirements: For the Career Development Specialist and the Work Readiness Specialist, requirements are listed as a minimum of 5 years of successful relevant experience. However, there is also a requirement for 3 or more years in a developing country context and 3 or more years in MENA (i.e. 6 years in total). Might USAID be amenable to changing the language as follows: “3 or more years in a developing country context or 3 or more years in MENA.”
The new language will read: "3 or more years in a developing country. 3 or more years in MENA preferred."
66
P. 24, “Reports and Deliverables or Outputs,” Deliverables Table includes Items 2 “Initial Annual Work Plan (including Life of Activity Work Plan)” and 3 “Life of Project Work Plan.” Are offerors correct in assuming that the Life of Activity Work Plan in Item 2 and the Life of Project Work Plan in Item 3 are identical?
Yes the two documents are the same. # 3 has been removed from the table.
67
p.82, L.5. instructs Offerors to comply with Local Compensation Plan for Morocco. Could USAID make available the most recent LCP?
No. Offerors should determine the appropriate market based compensation packages for their project staff. The Local Compensation Plan is an internal U.S. Government document. Offerors are only supposed to comply with the upper limit of the LCP in accordance with AIDAR 722.170. The maximum allowable salary under the LCP for Morocco is XXXXXX.
68
p. 18, C.4.3. Would USAID kindly consider the following revision of “Program Management and Personnel Requirements”: “The Contractor shall establish an office in Morocco to provide necessary support for management, implementation and monitoring and evaluation. The office, under supervision from home office to ensure compliance with the terms of the contract, shall provide all administrative and management support for the Contractor in-country, including implementation of financial and accounting systems for procurement, arranging for and supporting in-country travel and training for long and short-term personnel, processing and hosting key or short-term consultants, and managing sub-grants. The COP, in consultation with the home office, shall be authorized to represent the implementer in all technical matters”
Thanks for the suggestion. USAID will remove the word "all" in the below paragraph as well as remove the sub-grants reference: "The Contractor shall establish an office in Morocco to provide necessary support for management, implementation, and monitoring and evaluation. The office shall provide all administrative and management support for the Contractor, including implementation of financial and accounting systems for procurement, arranging for and supporting in‐country travel and training for long and short‐term personnel, processing and hosting key or short‐term consultants, and managing sub‐grants."
69
Could USAID please confirm that the Implementation Plan may be included as an Annex in order to provide the needed level of detail, in light of the page limitation on the technical proposal?
The implementation plan is a part of the technical proposal and falls within the 20 page limit.
70
Could USAID please confirm that the Preliminary Monitoring and Evaluation Plan may be included as an Annex in order to provide the needed level of detail, in light of the page limitation on then technical proposal?
The draft M&E plan should also be included in the technical proposal.
71
Could USAID please confirm that a short-term staff matrix may be included as an Annex in order to demonstrate the extent of the expertise of short-term staff as required on page 85?
Yes, the short-term staff matrix can be included in the annexes. Offerors are free to include additional items in the Annex so long as the total page count does not exceed thirty (30).
72
Could USAID please confirm that, under Proposal Format L.4.1 (p. 79), the list of exclusions from the 15-page limit should also include the acronyms list and a letter of transmittal and amend the solicitation as appropriate?
Yes
73
Would USAID please consider accepting electronic submissions only (i.e. amending p. 77 to exclude the requirement for hard copies) in the interest of cost-effectiveness and environmental considerations?
Yes, the hardcopy requirement has been eliminated.
74
Would USAID consider a two-week extension for offerors to have adequate time to prepare submissions in view of the absence of critical information on target $ range from the solicitation and/or the requirement for hard copy submissions?
No. One of the reasons USAID issued two RFIs was to allow interested bidders time to prepare their proposals. In line with the Mission's timeline, an extention is not possible.
75
Would the mission provide a plug figure to offerors so that they may make equivalent assumptions about costs under this contract that may be associated with training and or supplementary staffing for the CDCs (per p. 16)?
No - USAID seeks to increase competition on price, legitimize the quality of the proposals, and gauge the offeror's understanding of the RFP. Public data points exist to give the offeror an idea of the range.
76
Can USAID confirm that it is interested in establishing the work readiness training initially in the same three universities selected to receive CDCs, as per the statement on page 16, “The Contractor is expected to work closely with the departments that oversee the institutions where CDCs and work readiness trainings are established”? Further, how many vocational institutions does USAID anticipate will participate initially in the work-readiness training?
This depends on the model and service delivery mechanism proposed by the offeror.
77
On page 16, the RFP states that “The ministries have also agreed to mobilize personnel to staff the centers.” Will the Ministries pay the salaries for the mobilized personnel? Can USAID confirm that the process for mobilizing personnel will be collaborative between the Contractor and the ministries, allowing the Contractor to provide input into the staffing plan, position descriptions, and minimum position qualifications? In addition to providing space, will the Ministries also equip the centers, or should we include equipment and furniture costs in our cost proposals?
The two ministries have endorsed the activity and offered to support its implementation. Still for budgeting purposes, the offeror should assume that they will cover all staffing expenses. As such, the implementer will have a high level of input in hiring decisions. As for physical space, the ministries have agreed to provide space. Some level of furnishing and IT equipment may also be provided, but for budgeting purposes, the offeror should include line items for furniture, equipment, and materials.
78
p. 81 “The offeror must submit the cover page (Section A) of this request for proposal [Standard Form (SF) 33] with blocks 12 through 18 completed.” Would USAID please provide the SF 33 form for this RFP?
SF-33 Attached to Solicitation Amendment.
79
Since the six universities and regional vocational education offices have not yet been selected, could USAID please provide guidance on the target number of youth to be served by the Career Development Activity?
20,000
80
The RFP states on page 81 that, “As an annex, the Offeror should outline a draft communications plan to leverage traditional and multi‐media to raise the awareness amongst theactivity’s target beneficiaries and stakeholders.” Could USAID please confirm that the draft communication plan should be within the Branding Implementation and Marking Plan, which is itself an annex?
Yes, the BIMP should encompass the draft communications plan.
81
On page 17-18, the RFP references local organizations that can contribute to improving access to career services and work readiness training. Should the offeror plan and budget for capacity-building activities for additional private and non-profit organizations? If so, please elaborate.
Yes, ideally as a means to achieving the results stated in the RFP.
82
Is the contractor required to submit Letters of Commitment signed by personnel, specifically key personnel, included with the CVS in the proposal? If LOCs are requested, may these be provided as an additional page (for each CV)?
Yes. LOCs should be included in the annexes.
83
In reference to the minimum qualifications required of the Career Development Specialist candidate, the Request for Proposal states, “A Master’s Degree in an appropriate interdisciplinary subject such as education, counseling and guidance, student personnel or related field” – Page 20. Will USAID accept 7 years of relevant experience in lieu of a Master’s degree?
Regrettably, we cannot substitute education qualification for years of experience for key personnel.
84
Would USAID please provide a copy of the “March 2013 study by the Harvard Business School commissioned by USAID Morocco” mentioned on page 2?
The study was posted on FBO.gov with the RFP.
85
When will the USAID “Clearinghouse” (page 10) be established by USAID? Also, would USAID please expand on its plans for the implementation of this Clearinghouse that is critical to the successful implementation of certain parts of the Career Development Activity?
The Clearinghouse will begin implementation in the Fall/Winter timeframe. This activity is entering the procurement phase. USAID cannot provide further information beyond what is already in the RFP.
86
On page 10, the RFP states: “In addition to the Career Development Activity, three other core activities are envisioned under the Youth Employability Project. “To achieve Sub IR 2.1 (Local labor market systems enhanced with private sector hiring data), USAID will launch the Employers Hiring Data Clearinghouse. The aim of the Clearinghouse is to provide accurate, reliable, and timely information on Morocco’s labor market, in a manner that is user‐friendly, understandable, and relevant for key stakeholders. The Clearinghouse is intended to collect, to analyze, and to disseminate employers’ hiring needs and trends to help students, parents, educators, business, policy makers, and planners make informed decisions.” Is the USAID “Clearinghouse” activity the same as the ANAPEC “observatory” efforts over the past several years to amass a jobs database for the whole of Morocco? If not, what is the scope of the USAID “Clearinghouse”?
No the activity is not the same as the ANAPEC observatory.
87
Since ANAPEC sites are involved in the CDA activities, should Offerors assume that ANAPEC’s jobs database will be available to and accessible by the planned and future public university CDCs as well?
No offerors should not assume ANAPEC's jobs database will be available to them. This may end up being the case, but it also may not.
88
Is there a reference or references for the overall “Youth Employability Project” (YEP)? Are there previous studies or scoping documents that led to this YEP? Would USAID share these documents with offerors?
Yes, USAID conducted a series of internal analytical exercises before drafting the RFP, and no these documents will not be made available to offerors. Still, Morocco is well researched and a simple web search will reveal many useful sources.
89
On page 16, USAID states that it will establish a Steering Committee for the YEP. Would USAID please expand on the scope, authorities, timing, support, and any other impacts this Steering Committee will be expected to have vis-à-vis the Career Development Activity?
The steering committee will be used to share information, to discuss results, and to validate interventions with key stakeholders including multiple USAID implementing partners. USAID will convene the committee.
90
On page 15, USAID references three Memoranda of Intent with each of the line ministries that are partners to the project. Would USAID please share copies of these MOIs?
When the MOI's are finalized, they will be shared with the successful bidder.
91
On page 11, USAID indicates that students should begin to receive information about careers “at the start” of tertiary education. Should we propose communications and outreach for secondary school venues throughout Morocco?
If such an approach is an effective means to achieve the results stated in the RFP. The RFP is not meant to be overly perscriptive. USAID is seeking creative, innovative, and effective approaches to develop and deliver career services.
92
On page 12, USAID indicates that the career development centers (CDCs) provide a platform for access to work readiness skills. Later in the document there are references to there being or not being actual work readiness training delivered by/at the CDCs. Which does USAID intend? What does “provide a platform” mean to USAID?
Most staff at USAID define a platform as a flat surface that is raised higher than the floor or ground and that people stand on when performing or speaking. To provide a platform may suggest using a structure to gain greater exposure or access to potential beneficiaries.
93
Would USAID clarify the statement on page 12 that “centers should be leveraged”?
To use in a manner that multiplies impact.
94
Would USAID confirm when the six CDC locations will be finalized? Does “prior to award” mean before proposals are submitted – e.g., with the responses to the questions on June 20th? If later, please confirm that the selection of these entities and their potential significant impacts on project activities, personnel and budget will be part of the negotiation with the apparent successful bidder.
Prior to award means after July 7, 2014.
95
Does USAID expect all six CDCs mentioned on page 13 to be launched simultaneously?
No, not necessarily. The timing will depend on multiple factors.
96
Would USAID please explain why it is requiring the Career Development Activity to wait until Year 5 to begin new sites beyond the original 6 sites, as stated on page 14? It would seem that selection criteria and actual “competition” for becoming a recipient CDC should begin at least in Year 4 in order to be able to fully implement effective startups of new CDCs at new sites in Year 5.
USAID is not requiring the CDA to wait until year 5 to begin new sites beyond the original 6 sites. USAID is not oppossed to starting replication and scale prior to year 5 if circumstances permit.
97
Pursuant to text on page 37, does USAID expect that all CDC facilities will accommodate persons with disabilities? If so, would USAID confirm that facilities to be furnished by the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Executive Training (MHE) and the Ministry of National Education and Vocational Training (MNE) will be disability-friendly (i.e., no project funding necessary to install or modify real property) and that bidders should budget for all interfaces to be fully compliant with disability requirements as referenced?
No USAID cannot confirm that the facilities will be handicap accessible. Offerors should budget accordingly to ensure implemntation complies with USAID's 2004 diasbility policy.
98
Does USAID have a preference for the location of the local primary project office?
No.
99
In order to allow fair comparison among bidders and accurate budgeting and technical assumptions regarding project management, M&E and other support, would USAID provide any assumptions regarding the number of supplemental staff allocated for the centers from government entities?
The two ministries have endorsed the activity and offered to support its implementation. Still for budgeting purposes, the offeror should assume that they will cover all staffing expenses.
100
In order to allow the contractor to more accurately project costs related to operationalizing the centers, would USAID provide more clarification on the following: How much physical space has been allocated for each CDC location? What is the average size in terms of enrollment of the anticipated university location? The same questions apply for the Regional Vocational Education Offices.
That information is not available at this point. Offerors should use averages when developing budgets.
101
Would USAID provide a range estimate of appropriate total dollar values under this contract for both the base period (years 1-4) and the option period (year 5)?
No - USAID seeks to increase competition on price, legitimize the quality of the proposals, and gauge the offeror's understanding of the RFP. Public data points exist to give the offeror an idea of the range.
102
Would USAID please confirm that it expects the offeror to present a program designed and budgeted for all five years (not just the base period [years 1-4])?
103
Would USAID consider providing quantitative weighting of evaluation factors beyond “descending order of importance” (see page 84)?
No
104
In Section L.4, page 81, under the section heading of “Branding Implementation Plan and Marking Plan,” a draft communications plan is noted as an additional requirement. Would USAID please elaborate further on the requirements and expectations of the communications plan beyond the brief text under this section heading? Further, would USAID confirm that the draft communications plan is part of the Branding Implementation Plan and Marking Plan?
Yes, the BIMP should encompass the draft communications plan.
105
Would USAID confirm that an organizational chart is excluded from the page limit and may be included as an annex?
Yes
106
In Section L.4, page 80, USAID states that an offeror’s staffing plan “shall contain a complete listing of personnel with position descriptions.” Would USAID confirm that position descriptions are excluded from the 15-page limitation and may be included as an annex, along with the tables summarizing qualifications of proposed personnel, which USAID has already noted are exempt from the page limitation?
Yes. Position descriptions d may be included as an annex, along with the tables summarizing qualifications of proposed personnel.
107
In Section L.4, page 81, USAID requests a “past performance matrix”; elsewhere “past performance summary tables” are referenced. Would USAID confirm that these are the same documents? If not, would USAID please provide more information on the past performance summary table? Secondly, would USAID confirm that the past performance matrix is to be included as an annex, excluded from the 15-page limitation?
Correct. Past performance matrix and past performance sumary tables are the same. And should be included as an annex.
108
Would USAID confirm that, along with the cover page, table of contents, and dividers, an acronym list is also excluded from the 15-page limitation?
The page limit for the technical proposal is being revised to 20 pages not including annexes. The page limit for annexes is 30 pages. Personnel résumés, tables summarizing qualifications of proposed personnel, past performance summary tables and past performance report forms, branding implementation and marking plan, cover page, table of contents, and dividers are not included in the 20 page limitation. Graphics, tables, and exhibits are included in the page limits regardless of whether they are found in the main body the proposal or the annexes. Per the RFP: Personnel résumés, tables summarizing qualifications of proposed personnel, past performance summary tables and past performance report forms, branding implementation and marking plan, cover page, table of contents, and dividers are not included in the 15-page limitation.
109
Would USAID clarify that the following documentation can be presented as annexes (and do not count against the 15-page limit):
110
a. Resumes of Proposed Personnel
Annex
111
b. Letters of Commitment of Proposed Personnel
Annex
112
c. Tables Summarizing Qualifications of Proposed Personnel
Annex
113
d. Staffing Plan, with Organizational Chart and a List of Position Descriptions for all Positions
Annex
114
e. Sample of Technology-based Tools (mentioned on page 84)
Annex
115
a. Past Performance Matrix
Annex
116
b. Implementation Plan that breaks the activity into identifiable steps and suggests when each step will be completed and by whom (mentioned on pages 80 and 84)
Technical Proposal
117
c. Preliminary Monitoring and Evaluation Plan (not referenced in Section L, but mentioned in Section M, page 85)?
Technical Proposal
118
d. Branding Implementation and Marking Plan (including the draft Communications Plan)
Annex
119
e. Letters of commitment and support from partners and resource groups
Annex
120
Does USAID allow additional annexes at the offeror’s discretion for this proposal?
The page limit for the technical proposal is being revised to 20 pages not including annexes. The page limit for annexes is 30 pages. Personnel résumés, tables summarizing qualifications of proposed personnel, past performance summary tables and past performance report forms, branding implementation and marking plan, cover page, table of contents, and dividers are not included in the 20 page limitation. Graphics, tables, and exhibits are included in the page limits regardless of whether they are found in the main body the proposal or the annexes.
121
Would USAID consider accepting proposals delivered only in electronic form?
Yes, the hardcopy requirement has been eliminated.
122
Due to the irregularity of mail receipt at the issuing office, would USAID consider allowing mailed hard copies of the proposal to be received within seven days of the July 7 due date?
see above answer
123
Is there a megabyte (MB) limit per email and/or per attachment per email for the electronic submission?
No
124
What, precisely, does USAID mean by vocational centers, referenced throughout the document but on page 13 in particular? Could USAID please give more guidance on which centers will be targeted, i.e. OFPPT, IES, ISTA, etc
See footnote on page 13. Délégations Régionales de la Formation Professionnelle
125
USAID, MHE, and MNE will determine the sites/locations for the CDCs, and the two ministries have committed to providing the space for the CDCs. Other than rent, facilities costs could include, utilities, office furniture and equipment, ongoing supplies and materials, and potentially [modest] build-out. Will the ministries cover these costs, or should Offerors include them in their budget?
The two ministries have endorsed the activity and offered to support its implementation. Still for budgeting purposes, the offeror should assume that they will cover all staffing expenses. As for physical space, the ministries have agreed to provide space. Some level of furnishing and IT equipment may also be provided, but for budgeting purposes, the offeror should include line items for furniture, equipment, and materials.
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