Comprehensive Study for Developing Early Childhood Development (ECD) as a Flagship Program

Organization: Karuna-Shechen
Application Deadline: 31 October 2025

???? About Karuna-Shechen

Karuna-Shechen is a non-governmental organization dedicated to building a more compassionate world. The organization works to break cycles of poverty, strengthen community resilience, and help people reach their full potential. Its approach is holistic — connecting health, hygiene, education, food security, economic growth, and environmental care.

Karuna-Shechen runs programs in India and Nepal, and has been actively involved in Early Childhood Development (ECD) for more than a decade. The organization promotes joyful, play-based learning, community partnerships, and strong alignment with national frameworks such as the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS) in India and local government ECD initiatives in Nepal.

???? Purpose of the Study

As Karuna-Shechen plans its next five-year strategy, it aims to identify flagship programs that can represent excellence and long-term impact. Given its strong background in ECD, this area offers a unique opportunity to become a global leader.

This study will provide evidence-based recommendations to transform Karuna-Shechen’s existing ECD efforts into a world-class flagship program, showing measurable impact on children’s development.

???? Objectives

Primary Objective:
To design a clear, SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) roadmap that positions ECD as Karuna-Shechen’s flagship program in both India and Nepal.

Secondary Objectives:

• Assess the current effectiveness and impact of ECD programs.

• Identify gaps and new opportunities for improvement.

• Compare with leading ECD excellence standards.

• Develop strategic recommendations for scaling and long-term sustainability.

???? Current Implementation Snapshot

India:

• Pilot launched in 2014 with 4 Anganwadi Centres (AWCs).

• Expanded to 100 AWCs by 2018 and 150 AWCs by 2025.

• Operates in Bihar (Gaya, Nawada) and Jharkhand (East Singhbhum).

• Aligned with ICDS, National Education Policy 2020, and National Curriculum Framework 2022.

Nepal:

• Started in 2018, initially in Sindhuli district.

• Now active in 86 schools and community ECD centers across Dhading and Kapilvastu.

• Aligned with Nepal’s National ECD Strategic Plan (2020–2030) and School Education Sector Plan (2022–2032).

• Integrates learning with health, nutrition, food security, and family engagement.

???? Scope of Work

The consultant or agency will carry out the following activities in both India and Nepal:

1. Program Assessment – Document existing ECD work, identify target groups, and analyze integration with other Karuna programs.

2. Policy Review – Assess alignment with government frameworks in both countries and explore cross-country learning.

3. Impact Assessment – Evaluate outcomes, quality standards, and challenges.

4. Stakeholder Engagement – Conduct interviews and focus groups with staff, partners, and beneficiary families.

5. Benchmarking & Learning – Identify leading ECD models, innovative practices, and partnership opportunities.

❓ Key Research Questions

• What evidence exists of positive child development outcomes?

• How effectively are the programs reaching the most vulnerable families?

• What defines “excellence” for Karuna-Shechen’s ECD work?

• How can programs be scaled and integrated across thematic areas?

• What innovations could help Karuna-Shechen stand out globally?

???? Methodology

The study will use a mixed-methods approach:

• Desk Review: Analyze reports, data, and ECD policies.

• Field Research: Visit centers in both India and Nepal.

• Consultations: Conduct interviews, focus groups, and validation workshops.

• Participatory Tools: Use community mapping and participatory evaluations.

???? Timeline and Deliverables

Duration: 12 weeks total

???? Coordination and Reporting

• Main Contact: International Programs Director

• Country Teams: India and Nepal representatives

• Meetings: Bi-weekly progress check-ins

• Communication: Weekly updates and collaborative reviews

???? Consultant / Agency Profile

Essential Requirements:

• Proven experience in ECD design, implementation, and evaluation.

• Strong background in strategic framework development.

• Understanding of community-based approaches.

• Experience working in South Asia.

• Familiarity with national ECD policies in India or Nepal.

Preferred:

• Knowledge of play-based or Montessori methods.

• Experience with integrated development programs.

• Prior work with INGOs.

• Skills in participatory facilitation.

• Language abilities in Hindi, Nepali, or local dialects.

???? Budget and Support

Proposal must include:

• Consultant/agency fees

• Travel, accommodation, and daily allowances

• Translation, communication, and workshop costs

Karuna-Shechen will provide:

• Access to program data and documentation

• Coordination support from country teams

• Logistics assistance for field visits

???? Success Criteria

The study will be considered successful if it delivers:

• A clear picture of current program strengths and challenges

• A SMART, actionable pathway for ECD excellence

• Evidence-based, realistic recommendations

• A framework defining “excellence” in ECD

• Practical guidance for immediate and long-term implementation

???? How to Apply

Interested consultants or agencies can send their Technical and Financial Proposals to:
???? [email protected]
CC: [email protected]

Deadline: 31 October 2025

Applicants from India must comply with FCRA regulations. Applicants from Nepal must meet relevant local compliance laws.

???? Selection Criteria

Karuna-Shechen reserves the right to select the agency or consultant best suited for the assignment.

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