Deadline: 24-Apr-2026
The United Nations Children’s Fund is inviting Expressions of Interest from civil society organizations to provide technical assistance for climate-resilient WASH and menstrual hygiene management in schools across Assam, India.
The program will cover 3,467 schools in five districts, focusing on sustainable water systems, hygiene practices, and climate adaptation, with implementation from May 2026 to December 2027.
What is the UNICEF Assam WASH Initiative?
This initiative aims to strengthen sustainable, green, and climate-resilient WASH systems in schools across Assam.
It will be implemented in collaboration with:
- Samagra Shiksha Assam (SmSA)
- Public Health Engineering Department (PHED Assam)
The selected organization will act as a technical partner, supporting system strengthening, capacity building, and long-term sustainability.
Geographic Coverage
The program will focus on five districts:
- Kamrup Metro
- Kamrup Rural
- Morigaon
- Nagaon
- Sonitpur
These areas include:
- Flood-prone and riverine zones
- Remote and underserved communities
- Tea garden and char areas
- Arsenic-affected regions
Key Focus Areas
1. Climate-Resilient WASH Systems
2. School Sanitation & Hygiene
- Toilets and handwashing facilities
- School operations and maintenance systems
3. Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM)
- Safe and inclusive MHM facilities
- Awareness and behaviour change
4. Waste Management
- Solid and liquid waste management systems
- Environmental hygiene practices
5. Climate-Smart Schools
- Greening initiatives
- Sustainable resource use
- Eco Clubs and student engagement
6. Behaviour Change & Community Engagement
- Mission LiFE alignment
- Awareness campaigns
- Community participation
7. Monitoring & Evidence Systems
- Data-driven decision-making
- Tracking WASH outcomes
Program Objectives
The initiative aims to:
- Strengthen governance and institutional systems
- Build school-level capacities
- Improve monitoring and quality assurance
- Promote cross-sector collaboration
- Ensure sustainable water and sanitation services
Expected Results
- Stronger institutional leadership and accountability
- Schools and teachers as change agents
- Improved evidence-based planning
- Policy dialogue for scale-up
- Active participation of children and communities
- Climate-informed protection of water sources
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Civil society organizations (CSOs)
- NGOs with WASH and education expertise
Required Experience
- Public health or WASH programming
- School-based interventions
- Climate-resilient systems
- Capacity building and training
- Community engagement and behaviour change
Preferred Strengths
- Strong local presence in Assam
- Experience with government partnerships
- Familiarity with UNICEF or UN systems
Role of the Technical Partner
The selected organization will:
- Provide technical assistance to SmSA and PHED
- Strengthen governance and systems
- Conduct trainings and capacity-building programs
- Support monitoring and evaluation
- Facilitate advocacy and policy dialogue
- Promote sustainable and climate-resilient practices
Timeline and Key Dates
- Clarification Deadline: 20 April 2026
- Application Deadline: 24 April 2026
- Selection Notification: 27 April 2026
- Project Start Date: 1 May 2026
- Project End Date: 31 December 2027
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Process
- Review EOI Requirements
- Ensure alignment with program objectives
- Prepare Proposal
- Define approach, activities, and outcomes
- Highlight Experience
- Showcase relevant WASH and climate expertise
- Submit Application
- Follow UNICEF submission guidelines before deadline
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Clarity of proposed activities and outcomes
- Cost-effectiveness
- Local experience and field presence
- Sector expertise and track record
Tips for a Strong Application
- Emphasize climate-resilient WASH experience
- Demonstrate strong local understanding of Assam
- Provide clear, actionable implementation plans
- Highlight partnerships with government stakeholders
- Include measurable indicators and outcomes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Vague or generic proposals
- Lack of local context or presence
- Weak monitoring and evaluation plans
- Overlooking climate resilience aspects
- Missing deadlines or incomplete submissions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is leading the program?
The initiative is led by United Nations Children’s Fund.
2. Where will the program be implemented?
In five districts of Assam covering 3,467 schools.
3. Who can apply?
Civil society organizations with expertise in WASH, education, and climate resilience.
4. What is the project duration?
From 1 May 2026 to 31 December 2027.
5. What are the key focus areas?
Climate-resilient WASH, MHM, waste management, and behaviour change.
6. What is the deadline to apply?
24 April 2026.
7. Is local experience important?
Yes, strong local presence and understanding are key evaluation factors.
Conclusion
The UNICEF Assam WASH Initiative is a high-impact opportunity to strengthen climate-resilient water, sanitation, and hygiene systems in schools.
By combining technical expertise, community engagement, and sustainable practices, the program aims to improve health, education, and environmental outcomes for thousands of children across Assam.
For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.