ForAfrika is Africa’s largest African-founded and African-led international NGO, operating across eight countries: Angola, the Central African Republic (CAR), Ethiopia, Mozambique, Rwanda, South Africa, South Sudan, and Uganda. ForAfrika’s programming spans humanitarian response, resilience building, food security, livelihoods, health, and integrated development, with an organizational mandate to transition from predominantly humanitarian to a balanced humanitarian-development operating model.
Building the capacity of ForAfrika staff is central to delivering on this mandate. With a geographically dispersed workforce across diverse and often fragile contexts, traditional face-to-face training modalities present significant logistical and cost challenges. Self-paced e-learning offers a scalable, flexible, and cost-effective pathway to equip staff with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to drive programme quality and organizational effectiveness.
ForAfrika intends to develop a suite of structured, training modules to address prioritized thematic and functional areas identified through an organizational learning needs assessment.
This Terms of Reference (ToR) provides the framework for the selection of a qualified consultant or e-learning development service provider to lead the design, development, and deployment of this training content in close collaboration with the ForAfrika Technical unit and relevant country office SMEs.
Objectives
The overall objective of this assignment is to develop high-quality, engaging, and SCORM/xAPI-compliant self-paced e-learning modules that strengthen the knowledge and competencies of ForAfrika staff across all eight country offices, in alignment with the organization’s programme quality standards and strategic priorities.
Specific objectives are to:
- Develop a structured, modular e-learning curriculum covering prioritized thematic and functional areas, applying adult learning principles and evidence-based instructional design methodologies.
- Produce SCORM 1.2 / SCORM 2004 / xAPI-compliant modules optimized for low-bandwidth environments given operational contexts.
- Embed formative assessments, knowledge checks, and completion-tracking mechanisms within each module to support programme quality and accountability.
- Build internal capacity by providing programme focal points with the tools and guidance needed to manage and update content independently.
- Ensure all content is gender-sensitive, contextually appropriate, and accessible across the diversity of ForAfrika’s operating environments.
Scope of Work
Training Content Planning
- Review ForAfrika’s existing training materials, programme quality frameworks, results frameworks, and strategic documents to identify content priorities and existing assets.
- Conduct structured virtual consultations (KIIs and/or surveys) with staff representatives and relevant country offices to validate learning needs.
- Produce a Training Needs Assessment Report with prioritized learning outcomes, recommended module structure, and target learner profiles by country and function.
- Develop a Content Development Plan (CDP) specifying module titles, learning objectives, estimated durations, instructional strategies, assessment design, and sequencing logic.
Instructional Design and SCORM/x API Content Development
- Develop detailed storyboards and scripts for each e-learning module, subject to ForAfrika review and approval before production commences.
- Produce fully interactive, self-paced e-learning modules using an industry-standard authoring tool (e.g., Articulate Storyline, Articulate Rise, Adobe Captivate, or equivalent), packaged as SCORM 1.2, SCORM 2004, or xAPI (as agreed with ForAfrika).
- Each module should include:
- Clear learning objectives displayed at module entry
- Narrated or text-based instructional content with supporting visuals
- Interactive activities (e.g., scenario-based exercises, drag-and-drop, reflective prompts)
- Formative knowledge checks and a summative assessment with pass/fail threshold
- Completion and score tracking via xAPI statements or SCORM data layer
- Downloadable job aids or reference tools where appropriate
- Optimize all modules for low-bandwidth delivery: compress media assets, minimize auto-playing video, and ensure offline or cached access where technically feasible.
- Facilitate at least two structured review cycles with ForAfrika subject matter experts (SMEs) and incorporate written feedback before final production.
- Ensure all visuals, language, and scenarios reflect the diversity of ForAfrika’s country office contexts.
Learning Management System (LMS) Integration and Quality Assurance
- Upload and configure all completed modules on ForAfrika’s designated LMS.
- Verify SCORM/xAPI tracking functionality, completion logic, assessment scoring, and learner progress reporting.
- Conduct cross-device and cross-browser compatibility testing (desktop, tablet, and mobile; Chrome, Firefox, Edge as a minimum).
- Simulate low-bandwidth access conditions during testing and document results.
- Produce a Platform Integration and QA Report documenting configuration, testing outcomes, and any technical resolutions applied.
- Resolve all identified defects and obtain written sign-off from ForAfrika before final acceptance.
Capacity Building and Handover
- Conduct a virtual orientation session for ForAfrika’s designated LMS administrators and Programmes focal points on managing, updating, and versioning published modules.
- Prepare a Content Maintenance Guide covering procedures for editing source files, republishing updated SCORM/xAPI packages, and archiving superseded content.
- Submit all source files in editable format (native authoring tool project files) alongside final packaged modules and raw media assets.
Deliverables
Deliverable Description Target Timeline
1.Inception Report Workplan, methodology, TNA framework Week 1–2
2. Training Needs Assessment report Findings, recommended structure, learning outcomes Week 3–4
3. Content Development Plan Module outlines, scripts/storyboards (draft) Week 5–6
4. Draft Training Modules ([X] modules) Full draft content, reviewed by SMEs Week 7–10
5. Final Training Modules Revised modules incorporating review feedback Week 11
6. Platform Integration & QA Report Uploaded content, testing results, configuration notes Week 12
7. Content Maintenance Guide & Source Files All editable assets and administrator guide Week 12
8. Final Assignment Report Summary of process, outcomes, recommendations Week 13
Methodology
The consultant/service provider is expected to apply a systematic instructional design approach appropriate to the organizational context and delivery platform. The methodology should address the following:
- Learner-centred design: Content must be designed around the specific roles, contexts, and prior knowledge levels of ForAfrika staff, recognizing the diversity of operational environments across eight countries including fragile and conflict-affected settings.
- Low-bandwidth optimization: Given that several ForAfrika country offices operate in environments with limited or unreliable internet connectivity, all SCORM/xAPI modules must be optimized for low-bandwidth delivery. This includes compressed media, progressive loading, and — where technically feasible — support for offline or cached access.
- Iterative review: Draft storyboards and produced modules will undergo a minimum of two rounds of structured review by ForAfrika subject matter experts before finalization.
- Accessibility and inclusivity: Content must be designed for diverse learner profiles, including staff with varying levels of digital literacy, and must account for language needs across ForAfrika’s operating geographies.
- Quality assurance: The consultant shall apply their own QA process supplemented by ForAfrika acceptance testing before final sign-off on each module.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Essential Requirements
- Advanced degree in instructional design, educational technology, communications, or a related field or equivalent professional experience.
- Minimum 5 years of demonstrated experience developing self-paced e-learning content, with a strong portfolio of SCORM/xAPI-compliant modules.
- Demonstrated proficiency with at least one industry-standard e-learning authoring tool (e.g., Articulate Storyline, Articulate Rise, Adobe Captivate, or equivalent).
- Proven experience deploying SCORM/xAPI packages on LMS platforms and troubleshooting tracking/completion issues.
- Strong command of adult learning theory and instructional design best practices, including scenario-based and competency-based learning design.
- Demonstrated experience optimizing e-learning content for low-bandwidth or resource-constrained environments.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Strong project management skills with proven ability to manage multiple deliverables, stakeholders, and timelines.
Desirable Requirements
- Experience developing capacity building content for humanitarian, development, or international NGO contexts particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
- Familiarity with humanitarian programme quality standards, results-based management, and/or safeguarding frameworks.
- Experience conducting training needs assessments in complex or multi-country organizational settings.
- Knowledge of inclusive design and accessibility best practices for digital content.
- Multilingual capacity — French and/or Portuguese an advantage given ForAfrika’s country office footprint.
Management Arrangements
The consultant/service provider will report directly to the Director of Programmes, ForAfrika. Day-to-day coordination will be managed by the designated Programmes technical focal point. Country office engagement for TNA consultations and SME reviews will be coordinated through Country Directors or designated Programme Managers.
ForAfrika will be responsible for:
- Providing timely access to relevant programme documentation, frameworks, and strategic materials.
- Designating subject matter experts (SMEs) per thematic module and ensuring their availability for structured review cycles.
- Providing written feedback on draft deliverables within ten (10) working days of submission.
The consultant/service provider will be responsible for:
- Delivering all outputs to agreed quality standards and within stipulated timelines.
- Proactively communicating risks, delays, or scope issues to the Director of Programmes.
- Managing their own tools, software licences, and technical infrastructure required for content development.
- Maintaining confidentiality of all ForAfrika information, staff data, and beneficiary information accessed during the assignment.
Ethical and Safeguarding Considerations
All consultants and service providers engaged by ForAfrika are required to uphold ForAfrika’s Code of Conduct, Safeguarding Policy, and Data Protection Policy. The following specific requirements apply to this assignment:
- All content incorporating real case studies, programme examples, or beneficiary stories must be anonymized or accompanied by appropriate consent documentation.
- No personally identifiable information (PII) of staff, partners, or beneficiaries shall be used in training materials without explicit written consent.
- Content must reflect ForAfrika’s commitment to gender equality, diversity, and the dignity of the communities we serve.
- The consultant must disclose any potential conflicts of interest — including prior or current relationships with ForAfrika donors or partners — prior to contract signing.
- The consultant shall complete ForAfrika’s mandatory safeguarding orientation prior to commencement of the assignment.
Budget and Payment
Proposals should include a detailed financial offer covering all costs associated with the delivery of the scope of work described in this ToR. The following indicative budget structure is provided for reference:
Cost Category Basis (e.g., Days / Units) Notes
Professional fees (consultancy days) Daily rate × number of days Specify rate and estimated days
Content authoring tools / software licences Per tool per month Where not provided by org
Video production costs (if applicable) Per module / per minute Narration, editing, captioning
Graphic design and visual assets Lump sum or per item Custom illustrations, icons, templates
Platform integration and testing Fixed or daily rate Include LMS configuration time
Travel and subsistence (if applicable) Actuals or per diem Only if field visits required
Contingency Up to 5% of total To be justified
Payment will be made in instalments linked to the acceptance of agreed deliverables, as follows: [e.g., 30% upon acceptance of Inception Report; 40% upon acceptance of draft modules; 30% upon final acceptance of all deliverables].
Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated using the following criteria:
Evaluation Criterion Max Score Weight
Technical qualifications and relevant experience of the team 30 30%
Quality and relevance of the proposed methodology and workplan 30 30%
Quality of portfolio samples / demonstrated output quality 20 20%
Value for money (financial offer 20 20%
Total 100 100%
Intellectual Property and Confidentiality
All training content, SCORM/xAPI packages, source files, raw media assets, and associated deliverables developed under this assignment shall be the sole intellectual property of ForAfrika upon full payment. The consultant/service provider shall not reproduce, distribute, or use any materials, organizational data, or information obtained during the assignment for any purpose other than that specified in this ToR, without prior written consent from ForAfrika.
The consultant/service provider shall sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) prior to commencing the assignment. This obligation survives the end of the contract.
General Terms and Conditions
- This ToR does not constitute a contractual commitment. ForAfrika reserves the right to cancel this process at any stage without liability.
- ForAfrika reserves the right to negotiate with preferred applicants before formal award.
- Canvassing will result in automatic disqualification.
- ForAfrika is not bound to select the lowest financial offer.
- All proposals and communications will be treated in strict confidence.
How to apply
Interested consultants or organizations are invited to submit a proposal comprising the following:
Technical Proposal
- Cover letter indicating the applicant’s understanding of the assignment and relevant experience.
- Proposed methodology and workplan with timelines.
- CVs of key personnel (lead instructional designer and any other core team members).
- Portfolio of at least three (3) samples of previously developed online training content (links or files).
- Names and contact details of two (2) professional references.
Financial Proposal
- Itemized budget based on the cost categories above.
- Daily rate(s) for professional services.
- Validity of the financial offer (minimum 60 days from submission deadline).
Proposals must be submitted to recruitment@forafrika.org on or before 5th July 2026.
Please note that late submissions will not be considered.