Deadline: 12-May-21
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is seeking applications for a Cooperative Agreement from qualified organizations to implement the India Partnership for Early Learning (IPEL) activity.
Activity Goal
The IPEL activity seeks to improve early learning outcomes through a system strengthening approach in partnership with multiple stakeholders from pre-school to class 2 in both public and low-cost/no-cost private schools, not only in the NITI Aayog “aspirational districts,” but beyond in at least two states, and up to three states, across India.
Geographic Focus
IPEL will be implemented in at least two, and up to three states, across India delivering managerial, operational, and pedagogical support to assist them to establish and implement systems for service delivery in foundational skills. Potential criteria for identifying the IPEL states could include a mix of the following:
- USAID-supported INVEST activity focus,
- States’ level of enthusiasm in working with the IPEL partnership to develop stronger systems for delivery of high-quality foundational skills instruction,
- Documented poor foundational learning outcomes, as measured by the ASER 2019 data, (as opposed to the National Assessment Survey, the metrics from which are doubtful),
- States’ active commitment to improving foundational learning outcomes, as measured by the percentage of the state revenue dedicated to basic education,
- Presence of a significant number (5 or more) of the 115 “aspirational districts” from NITI Aayog’s “India @ 75” plan, and
- Presence of a network of NGO, private sector, foundation, and/or other actors predisposed to contribute financial, material, or technical inputs under the IPEL program to support the states’ development of efficient and effective systems for foundational learning instruction.
Funding Information
- USAID intends to provide $17,000,000 in total USAID funding over a five-year period.
Activity Components
- Component 1: Improved reporting system for foundational/early learning.
- Component 2: Improved classroom instructional materials, policies, strategies and standards adopted and practiced.
- Component 3: Improved professional development of education functionaries for early grade teaching and learning
- Component 4: Strengthen Visioning, Financing and Coordination.
- Component 5: Strengthen community and family engagement in early learning practices.
Eligibility Criteria
- Eligibility for this NOFO is not restricted.
- Organizations eligible to apply under this NOFO include, but are not necessarily limited to, U.S. and non-U.S. non-governmental organizations (NGOs), private voluntary organizations, public international organizations (PIOs), foundations, colleges and universities, civic groups, faith-based and community institutions, private businesses and associations, regional organizations, philanthropic organizations, and advocacy groups.
For more information, visit https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=332809