-****** REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL *****
Capacity Development of the National Assembly

Project Title:   Capacity Development of the National Assembly
Title of Request for Proposals: "Develop National Assembly Website and provide on-going technical support and      maintenance for one year"
Implementing Partner:   National Assembly  
Duration of Service:   6 months (Anticipated from September 2008 to January 2009)

Background:
On 25th January 2007 National Assembly elections were held in The Gambia. As much as sixty percent of the members of the NA are newly elected. Hence the majority of the elected representatives are not yet acquainted with the tasks, roles and responsibilities of a National Assembly Member (NAM). Being the law makers and the ones entrusted to promote and protect the interest of the people of the citizens who elected them, it is critical that they are given the required skills and familiarized with the fundamentals of good governance relevant to their institution. The work of the National Assembly is to a very limited extend known in the constituencies or for that matter to the general public.

There is little interaction between NAM’s and their constituencies. Furthermore, the well-functioning of the National Assembly depends upon the organizational support and service delivery effectiveness of the Office of the Clerk, which also require capacity enhancement and strengthening. 
Over the years UNDP and the National Assembly have formed effective partnerships in support of the basic principles of good governance. UNDP has supported the physical, human resources and operational capacity of the National Assembly. The new UNDP Country Programme and Country Programme Action Plan for 2007-2011 recognise the imperative role the National Assembly plays in creating an enabling policy environment and framework for implementing pro-poor growth, and deepening the democratic processes in The Gambia.

Therefore, to meet the challenges the National Assembly Members and its supporting services, UNDP in collaboration with National Assembly has developed a Preparatory Assistance Project. The project is designed to realize outcomes that lead to more effective parliamentary services and administration that support the National Assembly to fulfil its constitutional role and duties. It will lead to better understanding by the public of the role of the National Assembly and better representation by its members of their constituencies. It will also facilitate improvements in the law making procedures and increase the capacity of the National Assembly to exercise its oversight role.

The project will directly benefit the members and the secretariat of the National Assembly and its overall impact on the functioning of the National Assembly as the legislative institution of The Gambia will benefit all its citizens. Included in the planned activities of this project is the development and updating of the National Assembly website.  In view of this, a Request For Proposal is being advertised for the provision of such services as follows.

Tasks
Task 1. Develop and launch the Project website.
1.Work with the Project  Team to develop the requirements for the website and get these signed off by the relevant Project Stakeholders
a.The successful bidder should work with the Project Team to develop a requirements document that includes designs of the main pages of the website and the functionality/content requirements and National Assembly Database design as well as the underlying technical requirements e.g. software and hardware and networking and hosting requirements and back-up and disaster recovery options.
b.This will need to be iterated with the Project Team and then be signed off by the relevant stakeholders.
c.It is envisaged that the Project website design will be reviewed at a consultation meeting with key stakeholders.
d.Content Management Software Joomla would be used to update and maintain the website.
2.Construct the Project Website
a.Develop the front end, middleware and database code for the website using clear, easily maintainable and effective code and using proven, best practice, coding languages for such a Project website
b.Work with the Project Team to identify and help procure the necessary software, hardware, networking and hosting equipment
c.Install and configure the environment for the Project website to be constructed in.

3.Testing and launch the Project Website
a.The Project Website should first be launched as a "soft launch" to enable successful bidder to test the features of the site to the satisfaction of the PMO
b.The Project Website will then have a hard launch where the URL is well publicized and the number of hits to the site is expected to increase significantly
c.The successful bidder should assist the Project Team to ensure that the web-promotion strategy for the site works as required.
d.Once the website is running satisfactorily the successful bidder should provide the Project Team with a full set of documentation and training so that the website can be easily maintained and content updated.
e.The website should be configured with Joomla web content management environment.

In the proposal the bidder should demonstrate a clear understanding of the above activities and how they will be carried out and also address the following issues:
* Include some potential outline site designs and look and feel options
* Identification of software options, hardware options, network options, coding standards etc are proposed to be used in the development of the site
* Identify the cost implications of these options
The deliverables required for Task 1 (reports should be submitted in English) are:
* Project Website Requirements Document
* Project website code tested and running in final live website environment
* Full set of "as developed" documentation and training to the Project Team in the use of the website

Task 2 Provide technical support
1. Provide technical support service for site maintenance
a. Work together with the Project Team to develop a service level agreement for the developed website for the duration of the project.
b. Provide technical support to the website according to the service level agreement so that it maintains high availability.
c. Configure the website with Joomla web content management software.
2. Provide support including monthly updating.
a. Work with the Project Team to provide a content upload service and also to allow for some changes in site functionality and features as the Project develops – the successful bidder should advise what changes would be covered by the service level agreement.
b. Install, configure, train two National Assembly staff on Joomla Web Content Management Software.

In the proposal the bidder should demonstrate a clear understanding of the above activities and how they will be carried out and also address the following issues:
*  What is the typical service level agreement the bidder enters into for site support
* What are the different pricing options for different support levels e.g. 24 hour support 7 days a week versus only normal office hours support.
The deliverables required for Task 2 (reports should be submitted in English) are:
* Service level agreement and annual "service" report
* Live website supported according to the service level agreement

Roles and qualifications
The proposal should include company background and experience, including relevant reference sites, and CV’s for at least the following key roles and "Statements of Availability" for each role – see Attachment 1:
- Project Manager – should have at least 3 years experience in successfully managing website development and be good at requirements gathering in English.
-Website designer – should have at least 3 years experience in website design
- Website technical architect - should have at least 5 years experience in successfully developing, launching and maintaining database driven websites and be good at requirements gathering in English.
- Business Analyst – should have at least 2 years experience at requirements gathering, writing clear documentation and training end-users. Fluency in English language required.

Timeline and instructions to bidder for submitting bids
Domestic bidder shall lodge one original and two copies of its detailed Proposal. Decisions will be taken on the basis of this written Proposal. In the event of any discrepancy between the original and copy thereof, information contained in the original shall be accepted as correct and shall prevail over any statements contained in the copies. Proposals shall be enclosed in a sealed envelope or package, clearly labelled, and lodged via e-mail or registered mail or courier by 5:00 p.m 22 August 2008 at the following address.
For full TOR, please contact the National Assembly
Registry
UNDP, UN House
5 Kofi Annan Street
Cap Point
P O Box 553, Banjul.
Email Address: registry.gm@undp.org

Author:DO

I. Position Information

Job Code Title:                            Programme Associate 
Post Number:                              3458
Pre-classified Grade:                    ICS-6
Supervisor:                                  Programme Specialist/Programme Analyst
Duty Station:                               Banjul, The Gambia
Deadline:                                   14 August 2008
 
II. Organizational Context 
Under the overall guidance of the ARR(P) and direct supervisor of designated supervisor if applicable, the Programme Associate ensures effective delivery of the Country Office (CO)        programme by entering and managing data and supporting programme implementation consistent with UNDP rules and regulations.

The Programme Associate can supervise clerical and support staff of the Programme Unit. The Programme Associate works in close collaboration with the operations, programme and projects’ staff in the CO and UNDP HQs as required for resolving complex finance-related issues and exchange of information.

III. Functions / Key Results Expected

Summary of Key Functions:
•  Support to formulation of programme strategies and implementation of the Country Programme Action Plan (CPAP)
•  Support to management of the CO programme
•  Administrative support to the Programme Unit
•  upport to resource mobilization
•  Facilitation of knowledge building and knowledge sharing

1.  Supports formulation of programme strategies and implementation of the Country Programme Action Plan focusing on achievement of the following results:
•  Collection, analysis and presentation of background information for preparation of Common Country Assessment (CCA), United Nations Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF), Country Programme Document (CPD), Country Programme Action Plan (CPAP), effective  application of Results Based Management (RBM) tools and establishment of management targets (BSC).  
•  Presentation of background information for formulation of country  programme, draft project                   documents, work plans, budgets, proposals on implementation arrangements. 

2.  Provides effective support to management of the CO programme focusing on the  achievement of the  following results:
•  Creation of a project in Atlas, preparation  of required budget revisions, revision of project award and project status, determination of unutilized funds, operational and financial close of a project.
•  Provision of guidance to the executing agencies on routine implementation of projects.
•  Presentation of information for audit of Nationally Executed (NEX) projects, supports implementation of audit recommendations.

3.    Provides administrative support to the Programme Unit  focusing on achievement of the  following results:
•  Review of NEX projects Financial Reports; preparation of non-PO vouchers for development  projects
•  Maintenance of the internal expenditures control system which ensures that vouchers processed are matched and completed, transactions are correctly recorded and posted in Atlas.
•  Timely corrective actions on unposted vouchers, including the vouchers with budget check errors, match exceptions, unapproved vouchers. 
•  Creation of requisitions in Atlas for development projects, register of goods receipt in Atlas.
•  Making budget check for requisitions, POs and vouchers. 

4.  Supports resource mobilization focusing on achievement of the following results:
•  Analysis of information on donors, preparation of donor’s profile.
•  Track and reporting on mobilized resources. Review of contributions agreement, managing                    contributions in Atlas.
 
5.  Ensures facilitation of knowledge building and knowledge sharing in the CO focusing on achievement of the following results:
 • Organization of trainings for the operations/ projects staff on programme.
•  Synthesis of lessons learnt and best practices in programme.
•  Sound contributions to knowledge networks and communities of practice.

IV. Impact of Results
The key results have an impact on the overall performance of the Programme Unit and success in               implementation of programme strategies. Accurate analysis, data entry and presentation of  information ensure proper programme implementation

V. Competencies 

Corporate Competencies:
*  Demonstrates commitment to UNDP’s mission, vision and values.
*  Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability

Functional Competencies:
*  Knowledge Management and Learning
*  Shares knowledge and experience
*  Actively works towards continuing personal learning, acts on learning plan and applies newly acquired skills 
 
Development and Operational Effectiveness
*   Ability to perform a variety of specialized tasks related to Results Management, including support to design, planning and implementation of programme, managing data, reporting.
*  Ability to provide input to business processes re-engineering, implementation of new system, including new IT based systems
 
Leadership and Self-Management
*  Focuses on result for the client and responds positively to feedback
*  Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude
*  Remains calm, in control and good humored even under pressure
*  Demonstrates openness to change and ability to manage complexities

VI. Recruitment Qualifications

Education: Secondary Education with specialized certification in Accounting and Finance. University Degree in the Social Sciences or equivalent is desirable.  
 
Experience: 5 to 7 years of progressively responsible programme and project operational experience is required at the national or international level. Substantive knowledge of programme management in the area of Disaster Management required. Excellent writing and communication skills. Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc) and advance knowledge of spreadsheet and database packages, experience in handling of web based management systems.
 
Language Requirements: Fluency in English and national languages.
 
Submission of applications: Interested candidates should send a one-page cover letter explaining your interest and suitability for this position as well as an updated CV to the UNDP Country Office: UNDP The Gambia, Officer-in-Charge, 5, Kofi Annan Street, P.O. Box 553, Cape Point, Banjul

Or through email: registry.gm@undp.org, indicating "Programme Associate, 3458 " in the subject field.

The closing date for applications is 14 August 2008. Any applications received after this date will not be given consideration. Only short-listed candidates whose applications respond to the above criteria will be contacted for an interview.

I. Position Information

Job Code Title:                            Programme Associate 
Post Number:                              3458
Pre-classified Grade:                    ICS-6
Supervisor:                                  Programme Specialist/Programme Analyst
Duty Station:                               Banjul, The Gambia
Deadline:                                   14 August 2008
 
II. Organizational Context 
Under the overall guidance of the ARR(P) and direct supervisor of designated supervisor if applicable, the Programme Associate ensures effective delivery of the Country Office (CO) programme by entering and managing data and supporting programme implementation consistent with UNDP rules and regulations.

The Programme Associate can supervise clerical and support staff of the Programme Unit. The Programme Associate works in close collaboration with the operations, programme and projects’ staff in the CO and UNDP HQs as required for resolving complex finance-related issues and exchange of information.

III. Functions / Key Results Expected

Summary of Key Functions:
•  Support to formulation of programme strategies and implementation of the Country Programme Action Plan (CPAP)
•  Support to management of the CO programme
•  Administrative support to the Programme Unit
•  upport to resource mobilization
•  Facilitation of knowledge building and knowledge sharing

1.  Supports formulation of programme strategies and implementation of the Country Programme Action Plan focusing on achievement of the following results:
•  Collection, analysis and presentation of background information for preparation of Common Country Assessment (CCA), United Nations Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF), Country Programme Document (CPD), Country Programme Action Plan (CPAP), effective  application of Results Based Management (RBM) tools and establishment of management targets (BSC).  
•  Presentation of background information for formulation of country  programme, draft project                   documents, work plans, budgets, proposals on implementation arrangements. 

2.  Provides effective support to management of the CO programme focusing on the  achievement of the  following results:
•  Creation of a project in Atlas, preparation  of required budget revisions, revision of project award and project status, determination of unutilized funds, operational and financial close of a project.
•  Provision of guidance to the executing agencies on routine implementation of projects.
•  Presentation of information for audit of Nationally Executed (NEX) projects, supports implementation of audit recommendations.

3.    Provides administrative support to the Programme Unit  focusing on achievement of the  following results:
•  Review of NEX projects Financial Reports; preparation of non-PO vouchers for development  projects
•  Maintenance of the internal expenditures control system which ensures that vouchers processed are matched and completed, transactions are correctly recorded and posted in Atlas.
•  Timely corrective actions on unposted vouchers, including the vouchers with budget check errors, match exceptions, unapproved vouchers. 
•  Creation of requisitions in Atlas for development projects, register of goods receipt in Atlas.
•  Making budget check for requisitions, POs and vouchers. 

4.  Supports resource mobilization focusing on achievement of the following results:
•  Analysis of information on donors, preparation of donor’s profile.
•  Track and reporting on mobilized resources. Review of contributions agreement, managing contributions in Atlas.
 
5.  Ensures facilitation of knowledge building and knowledge sharing in the CO focusing on achievement of the following results:
 • Organization of trainings for the operations/ projects staff on programme.
•  Synthesis of lessons learnt and best practices in programme.
•  Sound contributions to knowledge networks and communities of practice.

IV. Impact of Results
The key results have an impact on the overall performance of the Programme Unit and success in implementation of programme strategies. Accurate analysis, data entry and presentation of  information ensure proper programme implementation

V. Competencies 

Corporate Competencies:
*  Demonstrates commitment to UNDP’s mission, vision and values.
*  Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability

Functional Competencies:
*  Knowledge Management and Learning
*  Shares knowledge and experience
*  Actively works towards continuing personal learning, acts on learning plan and applies newly acquired skills 
 
Development and Operational Effectiveness
*   Ability to perform a variety of specialized tasks related to Results Management, including support to design, planning and implementation of programme, managing data, reporting.
*  Ability to provide input to business processes re-engineering, implementation of new system, including new IT based systems
 
Leadership and Self-Management
*  Focuses on result for the client and responds positively to feedback
*  Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude
*  Remains calm, in control and good humored even under pressure
*  Demonstrates openness to change and ability to manage complexities

VI. Recruitment Qualifications

Education: Secondary Education with specialized certification in Accounting and Finance. University Degree in the Social Sciences or equivalent is desirable.  
 
Experience: 5 to 7 years of progressively responsible programme and project operational experience is required at the national or international level. Substantive knowledge of programme management in the area of Disaster Management required. Excellent writing and communication skills. Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc) and advance knowledge of spreadsheet and database packages, experience in handling of web based management systems.
 
Language Requirements: Fluency in English and national languages.
 
Submission of applications: Interested candidates should send a one-page cover letter explaining your interest and suitability for this position as well as an updated CV to the UNDP Country Office: UNDP The Gambia, Officer-in-Charge, 5, Kofi Annan Street, P.O. Box 553, Cape Point, Banjul

Or through email: registry.gm@undp.org, indicating "Programme Associate, 3458 " in the subject field.

The closing date for applications is 14 August 2008. Any applications received after this date will not be given consideration. Only short-listed candidates whose applications respond to the above criteria will be contacted for an interview.

VACANCY NOTICE FOR THE POSITION OF HEAD OF NATIONAL OFFICE OF THE GAMBIA

The West African Examinations Council will soon have a vacancy in its Gambia National Office for the post of the Head of National Office.

Applications are therefore invited from suitably qualified Gambians to fill the position.

1.  QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE

An applicant must not be less than 50 years of age but not more than 58 years old by the time of assumption of duty.  He or she should be a seasoned administrator of unquestionable character and must:-

1.  Possess a good University (Honours) Degree.  Possession of M.Ed in Educational Evaluation will be an added advantage;

2.  Possess at least 15 years’ post graduation relevant experience in examination administration;

3.  Not be below the rank of a Director or Deputy Registrar (in the case of serving staff);

4.  Be familiar with Council’s operations in The Gambia as well as with other international activities relating to examinations;

5.  Have demonstrable financial and management skills and must be a good communicator with an excellent ability to relate with the public.

6.  Have demonstrable interest in ICT.

2.  DUTIES

The successful applicant, who will report directly to the Registrar, will be responsible for the overall administration of The Gambia National Office.  He/she will service the National and other local Committees of Council and oversee the entire

operations of the Council in The Gambia.  Broadly, the successful applicant will, among other duties, be expected to:-

1.  Plan, develop, initiate and direct the Council’s examination policies and strategies in the National Office;

2.  Direct and advise the Senior Management staff on the Council’s policies, objectives and practices in examination and research to assist them in working to schedule and achieving the Council’s objectives in the National Office;

3.  Advise the Registrar on the Council’s National Establishments in relation to manpower disposition, organizational structure and staff welfare;

4.  Assist with the formulation of National Policies on examinations and direct the day-to-day administration of the National Office;

5.  Plan strategies to mobilize the financial resources for running the National Office;

6.  Manage the finances of the National Office.

3.  SALARY AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE

The salary for the position is consolidated, with attractive fringe benefits.  The position is pensionable and the appointee retires at the age of 60 years.  The successful candidate is expected to assume duty on November 26, 2008.

4.  METHOD OF APPLICATION

Application forms can be obtained from the Director, Human Resources Management, Headquarters, Accra or from the Head of National Office, The West African Examinations Council, Banjul, The Gambia.

Completed application forms should be returned to:-

The Registrar

The West African Examinations Council

Headquarters

P.O. Box GP 125

Accra, Ghana

Thro’ The Head of National Office, Banjul, The Gambia

The last date for receipt of completed application forms will be August 8, 2008.

Only shortlisted candidates will be communicated with.

AUTHOR: DO

Vacancy for Client Services Supervisor
 
Position: Client Services Supervisor
Employer:  Pristine Consulting
Domain: A Technology Services company services providing global software integration services. 

Expected Environment: This new position will require frequent adaptation to changing business processes and technologies. Successful Candidate will need to learn fast, think and work independently, provide strong leadership, and operate with little supervision in a dynamic environment.   Successful Candidate will provide services to clients and users in The Gambia, United States, and Europe.

The Client Services Supervisor (CSS) will be responsible for ensuring that all company products and services meet the highest standards and that the company lives up to its credo of "delivering technology with excellence".

Key Responsibilities:
∑  Supervise administration of Client Services Department
∑  Manage the Acceptance Certificate process
∑  Conduct surveys of clients to gauge client satisfaction
∑  Maintain and update client accounts  as required
∑  Maintain and update Client Services business intelligence reports
∑  Answer client phone calls and emails
∑  Perform other tasks as may be decided by management

Knowledge and Skills
∑  Open-minded, aggressive and entrepreneurial personality
∑  Exceptional thought and people leadership
∑  Strong sense of ownership and independence
∑  Strong internal motivation and self-confidence
∑  Excellent communication skills
∑  Strong analytical and quantitative skills
∑  Experience and comfort in working in  a rapidly evolving work environment
∑  Experience or familiarity with Banking or Retail industries
∑  More than 2 years experience in Sales, Marketing or Product development
∑  Familiarity with the Internet and Internet-based software products.
∑  Bachelor degree required.

Note:
Send Resume by Wednesday 14th May 2008              
to jobs@pristine.bz

Only short-listed applicants will be contacted.

AUTHOR: DO