Request For Afghanistan Relief and Sustainable Development Organization-ARSDO
Request For Consultant for Market Assessment and Vocational Skills raining (Tailoring Sector)
Terms of Reference (ToR)
Position Title: Consultant for Market Assessment and Vocational Skills Training (Tailoring Sector)
Department/Unit: ARSDO Program
Reporting To: Program Manager/Project Coordinator, ARSDO
Duration of Assignment: Q1 (Market Assessment) + Training Period (as per plan)
Location: Nuristan Province, Afghanistan
1. Background
ARSDO is implementing a livelihood support project to enhance the economic resilience of vulnerable women and youth in Nuristan province. Given the cultural and economic context, tailoring has been identified as a viable income-generating activity, particularly for women. This project aims to assess the market demand for tailoring services and related skills while designing and implementing training programs to empower beneficiaries.
To achieve this, ARSDO seeks to hire a consultant to conduct a market assessment and design vocational skills training (VST) programs that align with local market needs, ensuring sustainability and profitability for trainees.
2. Objective
The consultant will:
- Conduct a comprehensive market assessment focused on tailoring and related skills (e.g., embroidery, stitching, fabric design) in Nuristan province.
- Identify potential buyers, business linkages, and supply chain opportunities.
- Assess the skills and capacity-building needs of local tailors and prospective trainees.
- Develop and implement a targeted VST program based on assessment findings.
- Provide business and marketing training tailored to the local tailoring market.
- Facilitate access to essential tools, materials, and deployment kits for successful trainees.
3. Scope of Work
3.1 Market Assessment
- Analyse the demand for tailoring services in Nuristan, including embroidery, traditional dressmaking, and modern garment production.
- Identify key buyers, local shops, and wholesale markets where tailoring products can be sold.
- Assess competition, pricing structures, and gaps in tailoring services.
- Evaluate material sourcing, procurement challenges, and potential suppliers.
- Identify skill gaps and training needs among local tailors and women interested in tailoring.
- Provide recommendations for specific tailoring specializations (e.g., bridal wear, school uniforms, embroidery).
- Submit a detailed market assessment report with trade recommendations and training plans.
3.2 Vocational Skills Training (VST)
- Develop a customized training curriculum focused on tailoring, embroidery, and business skills.
- Train 80 beneficiaries across different two districts (Wama & Parun) in Nuristan, ensuring gender-sensitive and culturally appropriate training environments.
- Conduct hands-on sessions covering stitching techniques, fabric cutting, machine operation, and quality control.
- Provide business and marketing training, including pricing strategies, customer service, and digital marketing (if applicable).
- Assist trainees in developing business plans suited to local market conditions.
3.3 Deployment Kits
- Identify essential tools (sewing machines, fabric, embroidery kits) required for trainees to start their tailoring businesses.
- Ensure timely procurement and distribution of kits to successful trainees.
3.4 Reporting and Documentation
- Submit regular progress reports, including baseline and post-training assessments.
- Document success stories and challenges encountered during training.
4. Key Deliverables
- Market Assessment Report: Detailed report with findings, trade recommendations, and training plans.
- Vocational Skills Training Plan: Structured training program for tailoring and embroidery.
- Business Plans: Developed by trainees for sustainable business operations.
- Final Report: Comprehensive documentation of the process, outcomes, and future recommendations.
5. Qualifications and Experience
- Registered Consultancy
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in market assessments and vocational training.
- Experience working in rural Afghanistan, particularly in women’s economic empowerment programs.
- Knowledge of tailoring industry dynamics, especially in conflict-affected regions.
- Fluency in Pashto/Dari and understanding of local customs in Nuristan.
6. Skills and Competencies
- Strong market research and data analysis skills.
- Excellent training facilitation and communication skills.
- Understanding of gender-sensitive livelihood programs.
7. Performance Indicators
- Timely submission of reports and training completion.
- Positive feedback from trainees and community stakeholders.
- Increased income generation opportunities for trained beneficiaries.
8. Resources and Support
- Costs of training materials and submission of final report will be covered by Consultancy.
- Consultancy will use its own transportation and staff cost.
- ARSDO will provide updates on Project inputs.
9. Application Process
Interested consultants should submit the following documents through below email:
- A technical proposal outlining methodology and work plan.
- A financial proposal with a detailed budget.
- CV(s) of consultant(s) and relevant team members.
- Samples of previous relevant work (if available).