Next Generation is a global research programme initiated in countries that are experiencing a period of significant change, with the purpose of ensuring that young people’s voices are heard and their interests properly represented in decisions that will have lasting implications for their lives. The stated aims of the programme are to:
- Understand youth attitudes and aspirations
- Amplify youth voice
- Support better youth policy-making
This research has been conducted in countries including Pakistan, Kenya, the UK, Colombia, Turkey, Sri Lanka and Myanmar; there is currently work underway in Ethiopia and Lebanon. The study seeks to analyse the conditions that support young people and allow them to reach their potential as fulfilled, productive and active citizens. The research is always completed with a series of recommendations based on supporting policy change.
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British Council looks to see how one or more significant changes or periods of activity – particularly when a number of events or circumstances come together – affects young people’s view of themselves and their place in the world. As examples: the UK research was sparked by the referendum on whether the UK should leave the European Union; in South Africa, by the sense that the ‘born free’ (post-apartheid) generation are coming of age and are dissatisfied with the post-apartheid social contract; and in Colombia, by a young generation coming to terms with the new peace settlement.
Nigeria attains 60 years of independence in 2020. The time since independence has been a period of rapid change, with the population having grown from just over 45 million in 1960 to just under 200 million in 2019. It is projected to grow to over 400 million in 2050, which would make Nigeria the third most populous country in the world. There has been mass urbanisation, with the city-based population now at 49.5%.
About 20% of the population is aged 18 to 30, but around 70% is aged under 35. This youth population is dealing with a rapid change in the economy, which has become largely centred on oil and gas. Life expectancy has increased, as has GNP, but there remains a large amount of inequality, with Nigeria having the highest population of poor people in the world, and youth unemployment in some states at 25%.
Where does this change and current state of affairs leave Nigeria’s youth? How is it impacting their lives now, and how they imagine their futures? How do they perceive their identity in terms of local, national and international connections? What are their aspirations in education, employment and culture? And what are their concerns?
Are the current opportunities for young people meeting the expectations they have for their own lives and for their society? How do they navigate their lives, their interactions with their peers, their elders and with the wider world? And given what they have to offer, what are the conditions needed to help them realise their goals?
ABOUT THE ROLE
We are looking to commission Next Generation Nigeria and examine how young people there are reacting to ongoing change.
The Next Generation Nigeria report will ask a nationally representative sample (95% confidence rate or higher) of young people aged 18-35 who are Nigerian nationals living in Nigeria about their experiences, their engagement in the civic, economic, social and democratic life of their country and their aspirations on influencing their community, country and wider world. This forms part of the global Next Generation series led by the British Council.
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The research design is expected to include:
- Desk Research: a comprehensive review of published research on the attitudes, aspirations and behaviours of young people in Nigeria
- Next Generation Survey: an opinion survey that can be implemented across the country by telephone, face-to-face, or online
- In-depth Discussions: qualitative research with young people and other stakeholders to explore in depth themes emerging from the survey data
- Analysis of Data, Conclusions and Recommendations: with a strong focus on policy recommendations
- The consultants will be expected to lead the assignment, but also to work alongside British Council staff in the UK and Nigeria to develop the methodology required as the research develops.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
The British Council is looking to appoint a reputable research provider with the following qualities:
- Strong qualitative and quantitative research portfolio, evidenced by previous projects
- Expertise in conducting interviews and identifying case studies – evidenced by previous research projects and consultancies
- Strong dedicated team with suitable experience and qualifications
- Knowledge and expertise of the country of Nigeria
- Experience of working with young people, and with evidence of showing how they can engage and amplify youth voice in this research
- Real understanding of the Next Generation brief
- Offering good value for money
- Capacity to deliver within an agreed timeframe
The final methodology used for this research project will be agreed by the appointed researchers in consultation with the British Council. We are keen to encourage as much youth involvement with the research from start to finish.
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HOW TO APPLY
Interested consultants are requested to respond to the tender document with details on how you propose to approach the research objectives. All proposals received should include:
- evidence of relevant knowledge and experience
- details of approach and methodology to be used
- qualifications/experience of the team members who will be involved in this project
- detailed timescale
- detailed costing plan
The deadline for clarification questions is 17.00 BST on 19 July 2019 and the deadline for completed responses by potential suppliers is 23.59 GMT on 7 August 2019.
Please submit your questions and completed response via the InTend portal. The consultancy opportunity is titled ‘Next Generation Nigeria’.
The InTend website is: https://in-tendhost.co.uk/britishcouncil/aspx/Home
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Read more on British Council Next Generation website
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