Expression of Interest to Mentor 10 Students in Academic Research to Promote Critical Thinking

1. INTRODUCTION

Zambia National Educational Coalition (ZANEC) is an umbrella body for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) that include Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Faith Based Organizations (FBOs), Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), Teacher Trade Unions (TTUs) and Students Unions. ZANEC currently has 91 members. ZANEC envisages a quality national education system that is accessible, relevant and equitable for all in Zambia.

One of ZANEC’s goals is to advocate for the provision of quality and equitable education through the attainment of Sustainable Development Goal number four.  In its quest to promote critical thinking and research skills among university and college students in the country, ZANEC with the help of SAIH has since 2019 successfully supported students to conduct research on topical issues. The research findings have helped enhance evidence-based advocacy work in institutions of higher learning.

It is from this background that ZANEC would like to engage the services of a professional to mentor the successful candidates for the 2023 Student research.

2.0 Purpose of the assignment.

The main aim of this activity is to capacitate students with research skills as well as promote and enhance their critical thinking skills

2.1 Specific objective

The specific objective of the task is to:

• Promote critical thinking as an exercise of academic freedom in institutions of higher learning; and
• Contribute to enhanced quality learning outcomes.

3.0 SCOPE OF THE CONSULTANCY

The Consultant will be expected to mentor 10 students to conduct and complete academic-style research.

Specifically, the consultant is expected to do the following:

1. Review research proposals submitted by students for coherence and purpose of approval to commence research.
2. To conduct an research orientation workshop for the selected students.
3. To review and provide feedback on the quality, content and direction of the submitted research.
4. Provide technical support to students to ensure that their research papers meet acceptable academic standards.
5. Provide mentorship to the research processes for the identified students.
6. Participate in dissemination platforms for the students’ research findings.

3.1  SPECIFIC DELIVERABLES 

1. Written recommendations for approval of proposed student research;
2. Report on the induction session with the students
3. Mentors’ overall process report to ZANEC

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

• Must be a lecturer / Researcher in a Higher Institution of Learning
• Must hold a minimum of a Master’s Degree.
• Female consultants are encouraged to apply.

All Expressions of Interest must be submitted through email to the address below by Friday, 7^th March 2023.

The Executive Director,

Zambia National Education Coalition,

Baptist Fellowship Building,

Plot 3061/2 Corner Makishi and Great East Road,

P.O. Box 30774,

Lusaka-Zambia,

Email: [email protected]

Cc: [email protected]