RFP# LRPS-2024-9188006 To provide services for " Causal Analysis of Anaemia Among Children Under-Five in FDMN Camps, Cox’s Bazar-2023.

ANNEX-F

 

TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR INSTITUTIONAL CONTRACT

Title: Causal Analysis of Anaemia Among Children Under-Five in FDMN Camps, Cox’s Bazar-2023.

Purpose

The proposed causal analysis is to gather accurate and context-specific information on the various causes of anemia among children Under-Five Rohingya children in the Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals (FDMN) Camps in Cox's Bazar. This analysis will contribute to a better understanding of the diverse and complex factors leading to pediatric anemia in the FDMN Camps.

Location

FDMN Camps are situated in Ukhiya & Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar. Field visits to the targeted camps will be required during field testing and data collection.

Estimated Duration

6 Months

Technical Supervisor of the assignment

Health & Nutrition Officer, Nutrition

 

1. Background and Context

As of July 2023, there are about 931,960 Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals (FDMN) in Cox’s Bazar with 143,202 children under five in all camps needing life-saving and preventive nutrition services[1]. The current FDMN crisis is protracted and was further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and global food crisis increasing the vulnerabilities of the FDMN population. The November 2021 Standardized Expanded Nutrition Survey (SENS) survey showed that 13.7 per cent of the FDMN children aged 6-59 months are wasted (GAM prevalence using weight-height Z-Score) – HIGH level (GAM 10 per cent-<15 per cent) as per WHO threshold severity mapping. This also shows an increased level of acute malnutrition: compared to 10.9 per cent in 2019 and 11.3 per cent in 2020[2]. Besides, there are various underlying aggravating factors that are perpetuating undernutrition mainly due to the lack of access to nutritious and diversified food and poor hygiene and sanitation status. The latest findings (published in June, 2023) in the Refugee Influx Emergency Vulnerability Assessment (REVA-6) showed that 95 per cent of all Rohingya households are moderate to highly vulnerable and remain entirely dependent on humanitarian assistance, like in 2020 (96 per cent)[3]. It is estimated that in 2023 there will be around 11,500 children who could become severely wasted thus needing emergency lifesaving treatment (JRP 2023).

 

Chronic malnutrition among under-five children remains above the 30 per cent ‘Very High’ threshold as per the WHO/UNICEF classification, with fluctuated trends observed between 2017 and 20212. Older children (24-59 months) are more stunted than the younger age group of 6-23 months; the findings resonate with the general observation in nutrition surveys that acute malnutrition decreases with age while stunting increases with age[4]. No statistically significant difference in the prevalence of both wasting and stunting has been observed between the 2021 and 2020 assessments.

 

Among the multitude of pressing concerns faced by the FDMN community, the prevalence of anaemia among children and women stands out as a grave public health issue. Shockingly, across all camps, the prevalence of anaemia among children and women is high, above emergency thresholds of 40 per cent. The prevalence rate has remained critical (above 40 per cent) in the past four assessments. There is a statistically significant deterioration in Kutupalong Mega Camps among children, where the prevalence increased from 37.4 per cent to 50.5 per cent (P=0.00) between 2019 and 2021 respectively. Based on age, the younger age group (6-23 months) is nearly two times more anaemic than the older age group (24-59 months); in Kutupalong Mega Camps, the prevalence of anaemia in the age group 6-23 months was 72.8 per cent against 39.4 per cent for children in the 24-59 months age group2. The same applies to women living in the same Kutupalong Mega Camps, where over 90 per cent of the FDMN live, and there has been a similarly sharp increase in the prevalence of anaemia from 20.3 per cent in 2019 to 40.3 per cent (P=0.000) in 2021. However, the increase in the two registered camps (Kutupalong and Nayapara), both for children and women, was not significant.

 

Given these deeply concerning statistics, our proposed services emerge as a beacon of hope in this humanitarian crisis. We aim to confront the urgent issue of anaemia head-on, focusing on the vulnerable FDMN children and women in Cox's Bazar. Past activities have involved relentless assessments of anaemia prevalence, consistently revealing distressing levels of this debilitating condition within the FDMN camps. Backed by compelling studies and crucial data, our mission is to urgently implement comprehensive and preventive nutrition services that will enhance the health and well-being of this marginalized population.

 

1. Rationale / Purpose of the evidence activity

 

Anaemia is associated with poor cognitive and motor development and work capacity. Despite other nutritional and non-nutritional causes, iron deficiency is the most common cause of anaemia. Blood haemoglobin concentration is used to diagnose anaemia and is affected by many factors, including altitude (meters above sea level), smoking, age, sex, trimester of pregnancy (for females), presence of infectious and/or chronic disease etc. For both children and women, the prevalence of anaemia in a population is used to classify the public health significance of the problem; >40 per cent is categorized as “High”, 20-40 per cent as “Medium” and 5-20 per cent as “Low” [5].  

 

In FDMN camps, anaemia among children and women has worsened despite more than 80% coverage of the Blanket Supplementary Feeding Program (BSFP); all the rations of Blanket Supplementary Feeding Programme (BSFP) and Targeted Supplementary Feeding Programme (TSFP) are iron-fortified. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that the coverage of ANC (Antenatal Care) and Iron Folic Acid (IFA) supplementation for women has been notably high, exhibiting an upward trend. ANC coverage has increased from 35 per cent in 2019 to 75 per cent in 2021, while IFA supplementation coverage has risen from 43 per cent in 2019 to 63 per cent in 20212, [6]. The latest assessment (SENS 2021) revealed that 57% of children between the ages of 6-23 months from Kutupalong Mega Camps and more than 90% of the same age group from both registered camps consume iron-rich food/fortified food2. Nonetheless, in the FDMN camps, the proportion of children aged 6-23 months receiving complementary food that meets the Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD) criteria is limited to 28.2%2.

 

The overall situation suggests an urgent review of the anaemia mitigation strategy based on the etiology. That is also one of the recommendations from the SENS survey conducted in 2021. 

 

A study by Rahman et. al. (2016) revealed that the higher prevalence of anaemia in Bangladesh is not associated with iron deficiency alone. The nationwide prevalence of anaemia (33.1% in children under five years of age and 26% in women) was more than three times higher than that of iron deficiency in children (10.7%) and women (7.1%), suggesting other determining factors for this unexpected scenario[7]. In this context, the role of congenital Hb disorders along with other micronutrient deficiencies needs to be explored.

 

To understand the underlying causes of the highly prevalent anaemia among 6-59-month-old children in the Rohingya camps, a causal analysis is needed to generate evidence for a technically appropriate programmatic response, including designing/planning and implementing activities accordingly. The focus of the causal analysis will be on anaemia among 6-59-month-old children as a first step, as the causes of anaemia in children are often like those in adolescents and women. If the findings of this study indicate a need to do a similar causal analysis amongst adolescent girls and women, a subsequent study may be considered.

 

This study will be undertaken in close collaboration with the Institute of Public Health and Nutrition (IPHN), Ministry of Health, GoB. The findings of this study will be shared with IPHN with the hope that the findings will guide the various government policies and programs for treating and preventing anaemia among children both in the Rohingya camps and more broadly across Bangladesh.

 

Classification and Aetiology of Paediatric Anaemia

Anaemia develops through three main mechanisms: ineffective erythropoiesis (when the body makes too few red blood cells), haemolysis (when red blood cells are destroyed) and blood loss. The most common contributors to anaemia[8] are:

 

• Nutritional deficiencies: “Nutritional anaemia” results when the intake of certain nutrients is insufficient to meet the demands for the synthesis of haemoglobin and erythrocytes[9]. Iron deficiency is the most common cause (nutritional or otherwise) of anaemia and is estimated to contribute to 42 per cent of cases in children under 5 years of age worldwide[10],[11]. However, the proportion of anaemia due to iron deficiency will vary, depending on the age, sex, and region of the world. Deficiencies of vitamins A, B2 (riboflavin), B6 (pyridoxine), B12 (cobalamin), C, D, E, folate, and copper can also result in anaemia, owing to their specific roles in the production of haemoglobin or erythrocytes.

 

• Diseases: Infectious diseases can cause anaemia through multiple mechanisms, including impaired nutrient absorption and metabolism, ineffective erythropoiesis, or increased nutrient losses. Pro-inflammatory cytokines alter iron metabolism so that iron is sequestered in stores as ferritin, and the production and lifespan of red blood cells are reduced8. Anaemia of chronic disease/inflammation is characterized by normochromic, normocytic anaemia with low red blood cell counts and is the second most prevalent anaemia after iron-deficiency anaemia8. In low and middle-income countries malaria, tuberculosis (TB), HIV and parasite infections commonly contribute to anaemia.

 

• Genetic haemoglobin disorders: Structural variation or reduced production of the globin chains of haemoglobin can also result in anaemia. Approximately, 80% of global childbirths with a serious inherited haemoglobin disorder occurred in low- or middle-income countries[12]. Sickle cell disorders, which are associated with chronic haemolytic anaemia, are the most common genetic haemoglobin disorder, found predominantly in sub-Saharan Africa, followed by β- and α-thalassemia, which are primarily concentrated in Southeast Asia9. Thalassemia’s are genetic deficiencies caused by either the deficiency or defect of α- or the β-globin chain which leads to premature RBC death. Bangladesh and its surrounding geographical areas lie in the world’s thalassemia belt.

 

 

The aetiology of anaemia is complex and many details of the interrelationship among causes are not well understood[13].< >Objectives Scope 

 

The study will focus on all 33 FDMN Camps located in Ukhiya and Teknaf, Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh and the study will primarily involve Rohingya children aged 6-59 months residing in the FDMN Camps. The study will also aim to identify the causes of pediatric anaemia, distinguishing between nutritional and non-nutritional factors among the Rohingya Refugee population. It will explore the proportion of nutritional and non-nutritional causes and identify key nutritional deficiencies among children with nutritional anaemia. Additionally, the study will investigate the different causes of non-nutritional anaemia.

 

< >Research Questions  

 

This study will address the following questions –

< >What is the prevalence of anaemia among children aged 6-59 months in the FDMN camps?What are the main causes of anaemia among children in the FDMN camps – nutritional or non-nutritional or a mix of both?What is the extent of nutritional and non-nutritional causes?What are the key nutritional deficiencies (Iron, B12, Folic Acid, etc.) among children with nutrition anaemia?What are the different causes (thalassemia, infection, worm infestation, environmental toxins, drug etc.) among children with non-nutritional cases of anaemia?What are the factors associated with anaemia?Methodology5% level of significance for the key variable(s) to be measured, which corresponds to a 95% confidence level;5% margin of error for the key variable;1.5 – 2 design effect for cluster sampling approach based on a worldwide survey experience; andAt least a 90% response rate is preferable, so the required sample size needs to be adjusted to address non-response   

 

Analytical Framework:

To understand the etiology of anaemia, the causal analysis pathway of pediatric anaemia among Rohingya children could follow the below-mentioned algorithm:

< > Initial Anaemia Screening: Conduct haemoglobin level assessments using the HemoCue® Portable Hemoglobin photometer for all children in the FDMN camps. 

 

2. 2nd Phase of Analysis for Anaemic Children: After the on-spot screening and identification of a child with anaemia using HemoCue® Portable Hemoglobin photometer, the specimen for CBC and any other blood sample will be collected for further investigation[14] from the children 6–59 months diagnosed as anaemic. The CBC will provide information about the RBCs and other cell lines (i.e., white blood cells [WBCs] and platelets). All three cell lines should be evaluated for abnormalities. The CBC, RBC indices, blood smear, and reticulocyte count will be used to focus the diagnostic considerations and guide further testing to confirm the etiology of anaemia. These tests will be done in the pathological laboratory.

< >RBC Indices: Measure means corpuscular volume (MCV) and red cell distribution width (RDW) to classify the anaemia and differentiate between thalassemia and iron deficiency.Reticulocyte Count: Assess reticulocyte count to determine the erythropoietic response and production of RBCs.Blood Smear Review: Examine peripheral blood smear for pathologic findings indicating the underlying cause of anaemia. 

 

3. Confirmatory Tests: Perform additional tests such as haemoglobin electrophoresis, serum ferritin, and competitive immunoassay to confirm the diagnosis of specific causes of anaemia i.e., IDA, thalassemia, nutritional deficiencies etc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Biological Sample Collection:

Children aged 6-59 months will be selected for biological sample collection after due clearances and approvals from the appropriate authorities (Bangladesh Medical Research Committee) and caregiver consent are obtained.

 

< >Risks and Limitations: The study will prioritize the safety and well-being of the participants. Trained staff will conduct the anaemia screening and handle the collection and analysis of biological samples. Adequate measures will be taken to minimize any potential risks (i.e. infection transmission, physical injury, sample contamination etc.) or discomfort to the participants. To manage these risks effectively, researchers and healthcare professionals follow strict protocols and guidelines. Risk management strategies includes informed consent, ethical review, safety training for sample collectors, following strict aseptic techniques, proper labelling, storing and transporting according to the established protocols etc. The study will prioritize the well-being and safety of the participants. All necessary measures will be taken to minimize risks and discomfort associated with data collection and analysis.Generalizability: The findings of the study may have limited generalizability beyond the FDMN Camps in Cox's Bazar, as the study focuses on a specific population and geographic location.Sample Size: The sample size calculated using statistical formulas may have inherent limitations, and the actual sample may not fully represent the entire population of interest.Cross-Sectional Design: The study adopts a cross-sectional design, which limits the ability to establish causality and assess longitudinal changes. It provides a snapshot of the situation at a specific point in time.Resource Constraints: The study budget and duration may impose limitations on the depth and breadth of data collection and analysis. Resource constraints may impact the ability to investigate all potential causes of anaemia comprehensively. 

 

< >Ethical ConsiderationsUNICEF’s Procedure for Ethical Standards in Research, Evaluation, Data Collection and Analysis;  and will obtain ethical clearance from the Bangladesh Medical Research Council (BMRC) and a formal IRB approval, ensuring adherence to ethical guidelines and regulations. Prior informed consent will be obtained from the caregivers of the participating children. They will be provided with clear information about the study's purpose, procedures, potential risks, and benefits, and their right to withdraw from the study at any time and confidentiality and privacy of participants will be maintained throughout the study. Steps will be taken to ensure the security and confidentiality of collected data. Data will be anonymized and stored securely, with limited access granted only to authorized personnel. Data transfer and sharing will be done using secure protocols. Furthermore, human participants will have appropriate ethical training, which at a minimum should include completing UNICEF’s AGORA course on Ethics in Evidence Generation;

 

 

< >Use of Findings Publication Plan 

 

The publication plan aims to disseminate the research findings under the auspices of UNICEF. The objectives of the publication plan are to share the research outcomes, contribute to the evidence base, and inform policies and practices related to preventing anaemia.

 

The target audiences of the intended publications include:

< >Policymakers and government officials of BangladeshPractitioners and professionals working in health and nutritionResearchers and academics in the field of health and nutritionCivil society organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) involved in health and nutrition International organizations, including UN agencies and development partners, with an interest in anaemia 

 

Publication Types and Formats:

< >Research Report: A comprehensive report detailing the research methodology, data collection and analysis, key findings, and policy implications. The report will follow academic standards and guidelines for research publications.Policy Briefs: Succinct summaries of the research findings targeting policymakers and decision-makers, highlighting key recommendations and their implications.Infographics and Visualizations: Visual representations of key findings and data to enhance accessibility and facilitate understanding for a broader audience.Academic Articles: Peer-reviewed articles for publication in academic journals, targeting researchers and academics in the field.Dissemination Channels:

 

 

< >UNICEF Platforms Academic JournalsConferences and WorkshopsCollaboration with academic institutions, government agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders to co-publish and disseminate the research findings through their networks and platforms.Promotion of research outputs through UNICEF's social media accounts, blogs, and other online platforms to reach a wider audience.Schedule of Tasks & Timeline 

 

S. No.

Major Task

Deliverable

Specific delivery date/deadline for completion of deliverable (please mention as date/no. of days/month)

Estimated travel required for completion of deliverable (please mention destination/ number of days)

1

Conduct desk review (including existing programme background documents, reports, guidelines, and literature relevant to anaemia and its causes in the FDMN camps) and hold any initial consultations with key stakeholders (UNICEF, GoB, other stakeholders etc.)

Inception report (maximum 30 pages) including finalized methodology/study protocol and translated data collection tools, comprehensive literature review and analysis of existing data on anaemia prevalence and its causes in the FDMN camps

4 weeks post contract signing date

Cox’s Bazar – Maximum 5 days

2

Revise inception report and tools; Translate all data collection tools in Bangla and accompanying manual; Submit research protocol to IRB; Develop a field implementation plan

Revised inception report, data collection tools and IRB protocol (submitted)

6 weeks post Contract signing date

Cox’s Bazar – Maximum 2 days

3

Develop field implementation plan and data collection protocols including on safety, sensitivities, and COVID-19; Obtain ethical approval from IRB; Train enumerators, sample collectors; Pilot data collection tools

Field implementation plan (before data collection) and data completion report (after data collection), highlighting any discrepancies in planned and actual implementation including the development of a detailed plan for the causal analysis, including the selection of appropriate methodologies and data collection tools

7 weeks post contract signing date

Cox’s Bazar – Maximum 3 days

4

Revise the field implementation plan based on the feedback and discussion on the initial plan and accordingly revise and adjust the data completion reporting plan, highlighting, if any, discrepancies in planned and actual implementation 

Revised field implementation plan (before data collection) and data completion report (after data collection), highlighting any discrepancies in planned and actual implementation

 

9 weeks post contract signing date

 

Cox’s Bazar – Maximum 3 days

5

Develop data analysis frameworks and tools; Collect quantitative data,

 

Conduct quality assurance visits

Prepare data completion report for UNICEF and Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) approval

Clean and code quantitative data

Report on the conduct of fieldwork to collect primary data, including surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions.

Preliminary analysis report of collected data using appropriate statistical methods and tools to identify the underlying causes of paediatric anaemia in the Rohingya camps.
 

16 weeks pst contract signing date

Cox’s Bazar (including Ukhiya and Teknaf) – Maximum 30 days

6

Analyze quantitative data from household surveys  with draft interpretative language for input into report

Draft full research report (maximum 75 pages)  including detailed findings and inclusive of policy and programmatic recommendations and submission to UNICEF and Technical Advisory Committee.

 

19 weeks post contract signing date

Cox’s Bazar – Maximum 10 days

7

Revise the report based on feedback from UNICEF and submit a second draft for review by the TAC; Prepare and facilitate a results and recommendations validation workshop for the TAC

Prepare and submit the third/final draft of the research report, addressing feedback from the TAC including any recommendations for programming or policy in the context of Bangladesh

Revised draft research report, validation workshop on research findings to relevant stakeholders, including the Institute of Public Health and Nutrition (IPHN) and other government agencies, UNICEF, TAC, Nutrition, Health Sectors, INGOs, NNGOs to facilitate evidence-based decision-making;

Finalized full report; 10 page summary report/policy brief and accompanying Powerpoint Presentation; Submission of all draft English and translated data collection tools and raw and analyzed data

24 weeks post contract signing date

Cox’s Bazar – Maximum 5 days

8

Prepare and submit the policy brief/summary report and accompanying Powerpoint presentation; Plan and assist in the presentation of results and recommendations with a larger stakeholder group at the district and national level

Dissemination workshop on research findings; 10-page summary report/policy brief, infographics or academic discussion, and accompanying Powerpoint Presentation; Submission of all final English and translated data collection tools and raw and analysed data (quant and qual)

26 weeks post contract signing date

Cox’s Bazar – Maximum 5 days

 

Total

26 Weeks

60 Days

 

 

< >Estimated duration of contractDeliverables 

 

No

Deliverable

Deadline

 

 

1

Inception report (maximum 30 pages) including finalized methodology/study protocol and translated data collection tools, Comprehensive literature review and analysis of existing data on anaemia prevalence and its causes in the FDMN camps all accepted by UNICEF; Submission of IRB protocol

4 weeks post contract signing date

 

2

Revised inception report, data collection tools and IRB protocol (submitted)

6 weeks post Contract signing date

 

 

 

3

Field implementation plan (before data collection) and data completion report (after data collection), highlighting any discrepancies in planned and actual implementation including development of a detailed plan for the causal analysis, including the selection of appropriate methodologies and data collection tools

7 weeks post contract signing date

 

4

Revised field implementation plan (before data collection) and data completion report (after data collection), highlighting any discrepancies in planned and actual implementation

 9 weeks post contract signing date

 

 

 

5

Report on Conduction of fieldwork to collect primary data, including surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions.

Preliminary analysis report of collected data using appropriate statistical methods and tools to identify the underlying causes of paediatric anaemia in the Rohingya camps.

16 weeks post contract signing date

 

 

6

Draft full research report (maximum 75 pages) including detailed findings and inclusive of policy and programmatic recommendations and submission to UNICEF and Technical Advisory Committee.

 

19 weeks post-contract signing date

 

 

 

7

Revised draft research report and validation workshop, on research findings to relevant stakeholders, including the Institute of Public Health and Nutrition (IPHN) and other government agencies, UNICEF, TAC, Nutrition, Health Sectors, INGOs, NNGOs to facilitate evidence-based decision-making; Finalized full report; 10-page summary report/policy brief and accompanying PowerPoint Presentation; Submission of all draft English and translated data collection tools and raw and analyzed data (quant and qual)

24 weeks post-contract signing date

 

 

8

Dissemination workshop on research findings; 10-page summary report/policy brief, infographics or academic discussion, and accompanying PowerPoint presentation; Submission of all final English and translated data collection tools and raw and analysed data (quant and qual)

26 weeks post-contract signing date

< >Team composition, Qualifications & Experience required An institution, preferably any reputed medical college, is expected to carry out this research. The technical institution engaged for this purpose will be responsible for the ethical clearance by an appropriate and authorized body. The institution should have active experience in providing research services for at least 5 years; they should be registered and licensed to provide the selected services and they should have implemented or avail ongoing 3 (three) contracts of similar nature with organizations/companies of similar magnitude and complexity.

 

 

13a. Qualification of the agency: 

< >Renowned GOB Public Medical College and Hospital or Research institutions with experience in conducting sub-clinical and social science research, including large-scale quantitative and qualitative surveys as well as rigorous qualitative data collection, including high-quality data collection tool design; Strong technical team with high-quality academic qualifications (PhD, MD, or equivalent in a relevant field such as public health, haematology, biochemistry, medicine, social science, nutrition, biostatistics or epidemiology) and with adequate and relevant technical expertise to conduct this assessment; Strong technical understanding of Nutritional and Non-Nutritional Anaemia in children under 5; Pathology department to examine the blood cells;Experience working or conducting research or assessments of health care facilities, particularly at lower geographical units (i.e. community or village level clinics);Strong experience conducting research with low literate and vulnerable populations; Extensive knowledge and experience with statistical data analysis, and demonstrated competency in analysis using statistical software; Strong experience and efficiency on developing research reports for policy-makers, using accessible language and innovative formatting/infographics for digestible results;Strong report writing skills in English, with demonstrable products using triangulated and mixed methods findings;Familiarity with UN systems and procedures, management and monitoring tools is desirable.Team members with graduate and postgraduate degrees in nutrition, health, preventive medicine, community or international development, epidemiology, sociology, and other relevant disciplines. At least one team member with expertise (10+ years) in health and/or nutrition, specifically in anaemia detection (sub-clinical level) and treatment preferably in South Asia region. At least one team member with research experience who oversees the entire study and ensures its scientific integrity. At least one team member should be a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing and managing haematological conditions, including anaemia. Expertise in designing the study protocol, interpreting laboratory tests, and providing clinical insights is valuable.At least one team member with technical skills in analysing blood samples, measuring relevant biomarkers, and ensuring accurate data collection. Individual should have knowledge of haematological laboratory techniques and quality control procedures. At least one team member with expertise in study design, data analysis and interpretation of findings. Individual should also with expertise in sample size calculation, analyzing data and drawing statistically valid conclusions.At least one team member with extensive quantitative research expertise, including the development of strong guide and probing designs, and rigorous analysis and writing of results.At least one team member with advanced quantitative research design and analysis expertise, including advanced statistical analysis. Duty Station Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh (Laboratory level investigations, post data/sample collection, may be carried out elsewhere in Bangladesh, preferably in the Medical Colleges)  Management and SupervisionSuggested sub-sections:Research/Evaluation agency or partner: Project Management:Provide overall project management, ensuring timely and efficient execution of research activities. Develop and maintain a detailed project plan, including milestones, deliverables, timelines, and budgets.Coordinate and supervise the work of the research team, ensuring adherence to project objectives and methodologies.Monitor project progress, identify risks and issues, and implement appropriate mitigation strategies.Team Supervision:Recruit, select, and supervise a team of qualified researchers.Provide guidance, support, and direction to the team, ensuring clarity on roles, responsibilities, and expectations.Conduct regular performance evaluations, provide feedback, and address any performance issues as they arise.Methodological Expertise:Design and develop appropriate research methodologies, ensuring alignment with the intended objectives, requirements, and industry best practices.Stay abreast of emerging research methodologies, tools, and techniques, and incorporate relevant innovations into project design.Provide technical guidance and expertise to the team, addressing methodological challenges, data collection, sampling, data analysis, and interpretation.Stakeholder Engagement:Establish and maintain effective communication channels with all relevant stakeholders, including UN agencies, I/NGOs, and relevant government authorities.Facilitate regular progress meetings, stakeholder consultations, and reporting, ensuring effective communication of project updates, findings, and recommendations.Facilitate all required communication with the relevant government bodies for obtaining all required approvals and consent to carry out the research. Quality Assurance:Develop and implement quality assurance processes to ensure the accuracy, validity, and reliability of research activities and outputs.Conduct periodic and/or regular reviews and audits of research processes, data collection instruments, data analysis, and reporting to ensure compliance with established standards.Ensure ethical considerations, data privacy, and confidentiality protocols are followed throughout the research process. Agency or partner will also be responsible to obtain all the required ethical clearances from the recognized IRB/s. Reporting and Deliverables:Prepare high-quality research reports, ensuring they are accurate, comprehensive, and aligned with objectives and reporting standards.Present research findings, insights, and recommendations to stakeholders in a clear, concise, and compelling manner.Review and finalize deliverables, ensuring they meet all contractual obligations and client expectations.Budget and Resource Management:Develop and manage budgets, including financial forecasting, tracking expenditures, and ensuring cost-effective utilization of resources.Coordinate with relevant departments to secure necessary resources, including personnel, equipment, software, and data management systems. 

 

< >UNICEF: Provide overall oversight and coordination of the research project, ensuring alignment with UNICEF's goals, priorities, and guidelines.Coordinate with the research team, consultants, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth collaboration, effective communication, and adherence to project timelines and deliverables.Facilitate regular project meetings and check-ins to monitor progress, address challenges, and provide guidance and support to the research team.Collaborate with the research team, AIMTWG of Cox’s Bazar Nutrition Sector and UNICEF’s R&E Specialist to finalize the research design and methodology, ensuring it aligns with the objectives, ethical considerations, and UNICEF's research standards. Review and provide feedback on the research design, sampling strategy, data collection tools, and data analysis plan proposed by the research team.Provide technical expertise and guidance on child rights-based approaches, gender considerations, ethical principles, and other relevant aspects specific to the research project.Coordinate with relevant UNICEF departments or offices to secure resources and address the logistical needs of the research team.Monitor the utilization of resources, ensuring cost-effectiveness, adherence to budgetary constraints, and compliance with UNICEF's financial and procurement procedures.Review and provide feedback on the research team's data collection, analysis, and reporting processes to ensure compliance with research standards and guidelines.Conduct periodic quality checks and audits of research outputs, including data collection instruments, datasets, analysis reports, and final research reports.Provide guidance and support to the research team in addressing any quality-related issues and improving the overall quality of the research project.Ensure compliance with ethical guidelines and protocols throughout the research project, particularly regarding the involvement of children and vulnerable populations.Review and approve the research team's ethical clearance protocols, informed consent processes, and data protection measures.Provide guidance and support to the research team in addressing ethical considerations and child safeguarding requirements specific to the research project.Monitor and address any ethical concerns or issues that may arise during the research process, ensuring the well-being and protection of research participants.Review and provide feedback on the research team's progress reports, interim findings, and final research reports.Coordinate with the research team to ensure timely submission of research outputs and deliverables.Facilitate the communication of research findings, insights, and recommendations to relevant UNICEF program officers, partners, and other stakeholders.Foster a culture of learning and knowledge sharing within UNICEF and among project stakeholders based on research findings.Encourage the research team to document best practices, lessons learned, and case studies from the research project.Contribute to the development of evidence-based policies and programs by leveraging research findings and recommendations in decision-making processes. 

 

< >Reference Group(s):

 

• Review plans of the study.
• Ensure the research topic meets national, regional and global priorities.
• Review the research proposals/concept notes and ToRs and ensure they meet the requirements outlined in the UNICEF Procedure for Quality Assurance in Research, the UNICEF Procedure for Ethical Standards in Research, Evaluation, Data Collection and Analysis, and any other relevant procedures and guidelines. 
• May recommend 2-3 independent external technical experts to act as reviewers.
• Assist with identifying appropriate ethics review boards or mechanisms.
• Make a judgment as to whether an ethics institutional review board (IRB) has sufficient technical knowledge about the research topic and methodology to act as the external advisory board. In the case of an affirmative decision, this will overrule the requirement to set up a new external advisory board for the research project.
• Review progress, inception and final reports as necessary and provide guidance.
• Engage with external researchers, attend presentations outlining findings and provide guidance as necessary.
• Assist with the dissemination and uptake of findings as necessary.

< >Official travel involved 

 

 

< >IDENTIFICATION OF RISKS FOR THE CONSULTANCY AND PLAN FOR MITIGATION Please identify the risks, i.e. the effect of uncertainty on the objectives. The risks may be related to:

 

< >Environmental risk - the political environment, market environment or delivery infrastructure environment, among others.Programme risk - the complexity associated with the nature of the service to be acquired, among others.Implementation risk - risk associated with the capacity of the implementation unit/team.

Typical Risks to this Procedure

Minimum Expected Mitigation Measures

(Relevant to each Risk identified)

Lack of appropriate oversight for quality assurance processes.

Appropriate accountabilities will be established followed throughout the procedure

 

Longer time frames required for quality assurance processes may lead to stakeholder impatience or reduced interest.

 

Consultation with stakeholders regarding potential additional resources required to ensure quality assurance processes.

 

 Graded requirement for quality assurance processes in accordance with scope and scale.

In light of the additional requirements/ recommendations including internal and external (where relevant) reviews, dissemination and advocacy plans and a more participatory approach, the time frames and resources for research projects are likely to increase.

 

 

Emphasis placed on clear prioritization of research projects in line with budget.

 

< > PERFORMANCE REVIEWS:The performance of the contractor and the study will be subject to regular reviews throughout the duration of the assignment. Feedback and evaluation will be provided at key milestones to ensure the study's progress aligns with the project's objectives and timelines.Feedback will be provided after the review of each major deliverable submitted. This will allow for timely adjustments, clarifications, or improvements in the study's direction and quality.Regular progress meetings will be scheduled with the study team to discuss the ongoing work, achievements, challenges, and any necessary modifications. These meetings will foster effective communication and collaboration between the parties involved.An interim performance evaluation will be conducted at an agreed-upon point during the study's implementation. This evaluation will assess the overall progress, adherence to project requirements, and the quality of their outputs.At the conclusion of the study, a comprehensive performance evaluation will be conducted to assess the supplier's overall performance throughout the assignment. This evaluation will include an analysis of deliverables, adherence to timelines, compliance with the Terms of Reference, and the level of stakeholder satisfaction.Contract Amendment Evaluation: In the event of any contract amendment sought during the study, a performance review will be conducted to gauge the contractors's ability to adapt to changes and maintain the required quality standards.The performance evaluation will be based on predefined criteria and indicators, aligned with the study's objectives and the supplier's contractual obligations. These criteria may include accuracy, completeness, timeliness, compliance with ethical standards, and adherence to agreed-upon protocols. 

 

Performance reviews will provide constructive feedback to the supplier, highlighting areas of excellence and identifying opportunities for improvement. This feedback aims to enhance the performance and ensure the successful completion of the study.

 

Quality Assurance mechanism

 

The Quality Assurance Mechanism is an essential component of the upcoming study, which aims to ensure that the study will meet the minimum standards of quality outlined in the UNICEF Procedure for Quality Assurance in Research. This comprehensive Quality Assurance mechanism will address the potential risks, maintain data accuracy, and uphold ethical standards throughout the research process. For quality assurance of the study, the study should follow the five minimum standards of quality set by UNICEF.

 

An Internal Research Steering Committee will be assembled comprising of members from SPEAR, PMR and Nutrition Section. The committee should have four members, consisting of: a Chair with sound research experience (e.g. a Social Policy Specialist or an M&E Specialist at the P4/L4 or P3/L3 levels); two programme staff with research experience; and a programme assistant responsible for the administration of the committee (organizing meetings, taking minutes, following up on action points). The aim of forming this committee is to make sure that the study meets the minimum standards of quality outlined in the UNICEF Procedure for Quality Assurance in Research.

 

 

 

Furthermore, the following key elements will be considered for the quality assurance of the study:

 

< >Specific points in the research process will be identified for conducting quality control checks. These checks will encompass data collection, data analysis, interpretation, and report generation to minimize errors and inconsistencies.All researchers involved in the study will receive comprehensive training on the research protocols, methodologies, and ethical guidelines. Standardization of data collection instruments and procedures will be enforced to maintain uniformity.Rigorous procedures for data verification and validation will be employed to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the collected data. Any discrepancies will be promptly addressed and rectified.The study will undergo a peer review process wherein both internal and external experts will evaluate the study design, methodologies, and preliminary findings. This external input will help identify potential biases and enhance the study's rigor.The research will strictly adhere to all relevant ethical principles and guidelines for research involving human subjects. Informed consent will be obtained from all participants, and their confidentiality and privacy will be safeguarded.Potential risks that may impact the study's quality will be anticipated, and contingency plans will be developed to address these risks proactively.Regular and ongoing monitoring will be conducted to identify any issues or deviations from the Quality Assurance Plan. The Quality Assurance Team will meet regularly to discuss progress and implement necessary adjustments.Comprehensive documentation of all quality assurance activities, findings, and corrective actions will be maintained throughout the study. This documentation will be crucial for audits, evaluations, and ensuring transparency.Continuous feedback will be encouraged from the research team regarding the effectiveness of the Quality Assurance Mechanism. The insights gained from this feedback will be used to improve future studies.

---