Objective of the Consultancy
This consultancy aims to lead the qualitative data collection for the AIM Plus FY26 Baseline across all specified Area Programs, guaranteeing that data are gathered meticulously, ethically, and promptly before submission to the WVK National Office DEAL team for review. Additionally, the role involves training and supervising volunteers to conduct STAR assessments in schools, perform WASH facility evaluations in both educational and healthcare settings, and assess the role of faith leaders in promoting child well-being.
We are seeking a qualified candidate to execute the outlined scope of work, ensuring all deliverables are completed within the specified timelines and budgetary constraints. The selected professional must possess the requisite technical expertise and experience to manage project phases efficiently, including planning, execution, monitoring, and closure. Responsibilities include coordinating with stakeholders, adhering to compliance standards, and delivering high-quality results that meet or exceed client expectations. Proficiency in relevant tools, methodologies, and industry best practices is essential, along with strong problem-solving and communication skills to address challenges proactively.
The consultant will be responsible for completing the following duties:
Pre-Field Preparation
Please carefully examine the AIM Plus Basic Information Sheet, the qualitative instruments, and the sector-specific focus group discussion and key informant interview guides issued by the NOD MEAL team.
Acquaint yourself with the established qualitative protocols from the Global Centre, as well as the Re-adapted guides pertinent to Child Sponsorship, CBO, WASH, Health, Education (STAR Tangerine/IDEA), and Faith & Development indicators.
Note:
School WASH, health facility, and faith leaders’ community water, sanitation, and hygiene (CWB) assessments will be conducted using WV-designed Kobe tools, while reading proficiency evaluations will employ the STAR Tangerine assessment tool.
Before conducting fieldwork, participate in a briefing or orientation session with the NOD MEAL team to ensure alignment and preparedness.
Ensure adherence to all ethical standards, including compliance with ACOSTA regulations and the preparation of informed consent and assent documentation.
Accurate and timely recording and submission of data are essential components of this role, requiring meticulous attention to detail and adherence to established protocols. Individuals fulfilling this position must ensure all data entries are precise, complete, and submitted within designated deadlines to maintain the integrity and reliability of organizational records. Proficiency in relevant software systems and familiarity with data management best practices are prerequisites for success in this capacity. Additionally, the ability to troubleshoot discrepancies and verify data accuracy before submission is critical to upholding operational standards.
The consultant will gather, document, and deliver raw qualitative data to the WVK NOD MEAL team, which will handle the subsequent analysis. The following protocols must be observed for data recording and submission.
All FGDs and Kids require audio recordings, provided that explicit consent or assent is secured from participants beforehand.
The consultant is required to produce verbatim transcripts of all focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews (Kids). Each transcription must be finalized no later than 48 hours following the conclusion of a session.
Transcripts should explicitly include, for every session, the specific group interviewed (such as “Children FGD Age 7 to 12,” “Adult FGD Female Caregivers,” or “KIT Health Facility In-Charge”), the name of the AP, the date and location, the names of both the facilitator and note-taker, and the total participant count.
Responses should be documented per question, ensuring each reply or theme is directly linked to the appropriate discussion question. The transcript must align with the structure of the FGD/KIT guide, organizing responses sequentially by question.
The consultant is responsible for conducting structured assessments, including administering the STAR Tangerine reading proficiency tool to 50 Grade 3 students per AP and meticulously documenting each individual response per question. Additionally, they must complete WV-designed Kobe tools for school WASH assessments across 20 schools per AP, health facility assessments for all designated facilities, and faith leaders’ CWB assessments. Each Kobe submission should include details such as the school, facility, or respondent, AP, date, and assessor. The consultant must ensure all Kobe data is submitted to the NOD MEAL team in the agreed-upon format following the orientation session.
Secure storage and submission of audio files and corresponding transcripts must be ensured through WOK-approved secure digital channels to the NOD MEAL team, with retention and submission of both files required.
Field observations must accompany audio recordings for every Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and Key Informant Interview (KIT), documenting non-verbal behaviors, group interactions, and contextual details.
AIM PLUS FY26 QUALITATIVE DATA COLLECTION: TERMS OF REFERENCE
All submitted data must adhere to WVK’s data protection protocols by ensuring completed e-identification, which excludes any participant names.
The consultant is not responsible for conducting qualitative data analysis. Thematic analysis and synthesis of all submitted transcripts and data will be handled by the NOD MEAL team.
World Vision Kenya will extend the following provisions to the consultant:
Reviewed and authorized qualitative tools, focus group discussion guides, key informant interview guides, and assessment instruments before their deployment in the field.
The NOD MEAL team will conduct an orientation and provide a briefing on the AIM Plus methodology, associated tools, and ethical requirements.
Introductory correspondence and facilitation of community engagement are coordinated through AP Managers and Cluster DEAL officers.
Access to participant lists and sampling frames at the AP level, including RC lists, caregiver rosters, and school or facility directories, is required.
Logistical support coordination, including field scheduling and engagement with AP-level contacts, is required; however, all expenses related to transportation and accommodation must be included in the consultant’s financial proposal.
A robust digital platform is required for the secure submission of transcripts and audio files.
As the designated NOD MEAL liaison, you will serve as the primary point of contact for daily field coordination and quality feedback.
Safeguarding individuals and upholding ethical standards are fundamental priorities in this role. Ensuring the protection and welfare of all parties involved is critical, requiring strict adherence to relevant policies and procedures. Maintaining confidentiality, integrity, and professionalism in all interactions is essential to foster trust and accountability. Regular reviews of safeguarding practices and proactive measures to mitigate risks will be conducted to uphold the highest standards of care and compliance.
The consultant must either possess a valid ACOSTA research permit at the time of engagement or secure it before commencing fieldwork, or alternatively, conduct activities under the auspices of WVK’s institutional permit as stipulated.
Informed consent must be secured from all adult participants before any focus group discussions or interviews commence. For participants under the age of 18, written consent from a parent or legal guardian, alongside the child’s affirmative agreement using developmentally appropriate language, is required prior to conducting focus group discussions or interviews.
All FGDs involving children must take place in secure, child-friendly environments, ensuring facilitation occurs in a manner that is both engaging and non-intimidating while strictly avoiding any form of coercion or suggestive questioning.
All personnel involved in this assignment, including the consultant and field assistants, are required to sign and strictly follow WVK’s Child Protection and Safeguarding Protocol prior to the initiation of fieldwork activities.
The principle of Do No Harm governs all activities. Safeguarding concerns that arise during data collection must be promptly escalated to the designated WVK Safeguarding Focal Person.
All personally identifiable information must be processed strictly in alignment with WVK’s established data protection guidelines. Under no circumstances should participant names be included in transcripts or any submitted data files.
Audio recordings and photographs, where applicable, mandate separate, explicit consent or assent, and must not be disseminated publicly or beyond WVK without prior organizational authorization.
Seeking a candidate with proven expertise and extensive experience in the relevant field, along with a strong academic background or professional certifications. The ideal applicant will demonstrate a minimum of five years of hands-on experience in a similar role, complemented by advanced technical skills and a track record of delivering measurable results. Fluency in industry-standard tools and software is essential, as is the ability to adapt to evolving technologies and methodologies. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication abilities are required to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams and drive project success.
The Individual Consultant must meet the following essential qualifications:
Education:
Applicants must hold a degree from an accredited institution in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, or a related field. A valid state teaching license or certification is required. Experience in curriculum development, classroom management, and differentiated instruction is highly preferred. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential, along with a passion for fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment. Knowledge of educational technology and data-driven instructional strategies is beneficial.
A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Development Studies, Public Health, Education, or a related field. A Master’s degree is an added advantage.
A minimum of three years of relevant professional experience is required for this role, with a preference for candidates who have demonstrated success in similar positions. Ideal applicants will possess a proven track record of achieving measurable outcomes in their prior roles, showcasing adaptability and problem-solving skills in dynamic environments. Experience in [specific industry/function, if applicable] is highly advantageous, as is familiarity with [relevant tools, methodologies, or frameworks]. The ability to collaborate effectively across teams and communicate complex ideas clearly is essential for success in this position.
With a minimum of five years of hands-on experience in qualitative data collection, preferably within development or humanitarian settings, the ideal candidate will have conducted focus group discussions and key informant interviews with proficiency.
Proven expertise in performing qualitative research involving children and adolescents, with strict compliance to child protection protocols and safeguarding regulations.
Experience in WASH, health, education, or livelihoods program contexts in Kenya is highly beneficial.
Proficiency in World Vision’s AIM Plus, sponsorship programming, or indicator frameworks established by OILS would be considered an asset.
Proven expertise in a range of professional abilities and key strengths, along with the capacity to apply them effectively in diverse scenarios, is essential. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in critical areas such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability to dynamic environments. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are required to convey ideas clearly and collaborate efficiently with cross-functional teams. Additionally, a commitment to continuous learning and the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining high standards of accuracy and efficiency are highly valued.
The consultant is required to exhibit a proven ability to gather qualitative data concurrently across diverse geographic regions. In their technical proposal, they must present a reliable strategy to comprehensively address all Area Programs within a 30-day working period.
Fluency in both English and Kiswahili, both verbally and in writing, is essential. A strong command of local languages prevalent in designated AP regions is also highly advantageous.
Demonstrates exceptional facilitation abilities, proven through experience collaborating effectively with varied audiences such as children, caregivers, community leaders, and service providers.
Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in verbatim transcription and ensures precise documentation of qualitative responses for each inquiry.
Demonstrates strong expertise in handling audio recordings, maintaining meticulous field notes, and administering structured assessment tools effectively.
Demonstrates strong organizational skills in overseeing multiple accounts payable assignments concurrently without compromising accuracy or efficiency.
High ethical standards and unwavering dedication to responsible research practices, child safeguarding, and the protection of confidential data are essential.
A concise Technical Proposal, not exceeding five pages, must be prepared to outline key elements, including a comprehensive Financial Proposal that provides detailed cost breakdowns, payment schedules, and all associated financial considerations.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
Experience Required
5 years
