Deadline: 06-Apr-2026
UNESCO is inviting proposals from qualified organizations to conduct an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Readiness Assessment and produce a comprehensive country report for Sri Lanka. The initiative aims to evaluate the nation’s preparedness for AI adoption, facilitate stakeholder consultations, and provide actionable recommendations for governance and strategic AI implementation.
About the Program
The UNESCO AI Readiness Assessment is designed to help Sri Lanka understand its capacity, readiness, and governance structures for adopting artificial intelligence technologies. The assessment will apply a structured methodology, gather input from multiple stakeholders, and produce a detailed report outlining strengths, gaps, and strategic recommendations for AI integration in the country.
Key Objectives
- Conduct the AI Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) for Sri Lanka
- Facilitate multistakeholder consultations involving government, private sector, academia, and civil society
- Prepare a structured AI readiness country report highlighting opportunities, risks, and policy recommendations
- Support evidence-based strategies for AI adoption and governance
Scope of Work
- Implement the AI Readiness Assessment Methodology
- Engage relevant stakeholders through workshops, interviews, and surveys
- Compile findings into a detailed country report with actionable recommendations
- Ensure the report reflects Sri Lanka’s preparedness for AI technologies and potential gaps in infrastructure, policy, skills, and innovation
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible applicants must:
- Be legally constituted national or international suppliers capable of delivering professional services
- Have demonstrated experience in AI assessments, research, or consultancy in technology policy and governance
Applicants must not: - Be associated with firms involved in preparing the Terms of Reference or related procurement documents
- Appear on the UN Global Marketplace exclusion list, UN Security Council Sanctions List, or be excluded by the World Bank Group
Proposal Requirements
- Proposals must remain valid for 90 days from the submission deadline
- Shorter validity periods may be considered non-responsive and rejected
- Submissions should include methodology, team qualifications, work plan, and budget aligned with project objectives
Key Considerations
- Emphasis on transparency, inclusivity, and stakeholder engagement
- Reports should provide actionable insights for AI adoption strategies
- Ensure compliance with UNESCO procurement guidelines
How to Apply
- Review eligibility: Confirm your organization meets the criteria and has no conflicts of interest
- Prepare proposal: Include technical approach, team qualifications, timeline, and budget
- Submit proposal: Follow UNESCO’s submission guidelines and ensure 90-day validity
- Evaluation: UNESCO will assess proposals based on technical competence, methodology, and experience
- Contract award: Selected organization will conduct the assessment and deliver the country report
FAQs
1. Who can apply? Legally constituted national or international organizations with relevant experience.
2. Can individuals apply? No, only organizations are eligible.
3. Are firms involved in the RFP preparation eligible? No, they are excluded.
4. How long must proposals remain valid? 90 days from the submission deadline.
5. What is the main deliverable? A comprehensive AI readiness country report for Sri Lanka.
6. Are organizations on UN or World Bank exclusion lists eligible? No, they are not eligible.
7. What stakeholders should be consulted? Government bodies, academia, private sector, civil society, and other relevant AI actors.
Why It Matters
This assessment helps Sri Lanka understand its AI readiness, identify gaps in skills, infrastructure, and policy, and develop strategies for responsible AI adoption and governance. It enables evidence-based decision-making and strengthens the country’s capacity to leverage AI for sustainable development.
Conclusion
The UNESCO AI Readiness Assessment provides an opportunity for qualified organizations to contribute to Sri Lanka’s AI strategy by delivering a robust, actionable report. The initiative ensures inclusive consultations, transparent evaluation, and strategic guidance for the nation’s AI adoption and governance.
For more information, visit UNESCO.
