Background

Blind Youth Association Nepal (BYAN) is an organization established by Blind and Partially Sighted (BPs) Youth of Nepal, with the vision of “BPS people of Nepal enjoying a dignified life in an inclusive society.” Currently, BYAN is working in the areas of policy advocacy, education, employment, disaster risk reduction, political participation, and promotion of SRHR of persons with disabilities in general and BPS in particular.

BYAN is currently carrying out a Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) related project under Right Here Right Now 2 (RHRN2). One of its major outcomes is to ensure that young people with disabilities are empowered to make their decisions related to sexuality, voice their needs, and claim their rights. In order to achieve this outcome, BYAN has focused on developing CSE-related Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials in an accessible version.

Deaf individuals, who rely solely on sign language for communication, face numerous challenges in accessing SRHR and CSE-related services and information. Due to the lack of sign language interpreters and limited knowledge of basic sign language among service providers, deaf people encounter significant barriers when trying to access information and services. In this context, BYAN intends to develop a short video on basic sign language for SRHR information. Thus, BYAN announces the call for Expression of Interest (EOI) from experienced and qualified experts to carry out this assignment. Interested and eligible individuals or organizations are invited to submit their EOI to [email protected] CC to [email protected], mentioning “Expression of Interest for the Development of a Short Video on Basic Sign Language for SRHR Information” in the subject line: Address: [Email Address] The final deadline for submitting the EOI is Sunday, 4th June 2023.

Objective:

The primary objective of this project is to create an inclusive resource that compiles all the signs of SRHR related terms and information while communicating through sign language.  Additionally, the video aims to help service providers effectively communicate with deaf individuals in the absence of sign language interpreters.

Scope of Work:

The selected partner will be responsible for the following activities: 1. 

• Compiling the signs: Collaborate with BYAN’s team and SRHR experts to collect and compile signs related to SRHR terms and information. The content should be suitable for sign language interpretation and ensure effective communication with deaf and hard of hearing individuals. 2. 
• Video Production: Utilize creative and technical expertise to produce a high-quality short video with sign language interpretations. The video should be engaging, visually appealing, and accessible to deaf and hard of hearing individuals.
• Collaboration with Deaf Individuals and Experts: Involve deaf individuals, sign language interpreters, and other relevant stakeholders throughout the development process to ensure the video’s authenticity, effectiveness, and resonance with its intended audience. 
• Testing and Feedback: Conduct pilot testing with deaf and hard of hearing individuals to gather feedback and make necessary improvements to the video before finalization.
• Distribution and Promotion: Develop a comprehensive distribution strategy to effectively reach the target audience. This may involve partnering with relevant organizations, utilizing digital platforms, and leveraging BYAN’s networks to ensure maximum impact and reach.

Eligibility Criteria:

Interested organizations or individuals should meet the following criteria:

• Demonstrated experience in producing videos with sign language interpretation for deaf and hard of hearing individuals.
• Expertise in SRHR and familiarity with the specific challenges and needs of deaf and hard of hearing individuals in accessing SRHR information.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with BYAN and relevant stakeholders, including deaf individuals and sign language interpreters.
• Strong understanding of accessibility standards and best practices in video production for deaf and hard of hearing audiences.
• Capacity to deliver the project within the agreed timeline and budget.

Service Duration and Location:

The consultant will work in close coordination with the BYAN team. The consultant will be engaged on a daily basis for a maximum of 15 working days. The assignment will begin immediately and must be completed by the end of June 2023.

Submission of Expression of Interest:

Interested organizations or individuals are requested to submit their Expression of Interest (EOI) containing the following information:

1. Cover Letter
2. Financial proposal
3. A brief concept note highlighting the methodological design, including a work plan and quality assurance mechanisms.
4. The proposal should include the bio-data of the assignment team member(s).

 For firms:

• Firm Registration & Renewal certificate
• Copy of VAT Registration Certificate 7.
• Latest Tax clearance certificate

Selection Process:

The selection of the partner will be based on their experience and the proposed amount for the task.

BYAN reserves the right to select or reject any of the applications. Data or information collected during the task will be kept confidential and shall not be disseminated without BYAN’s prior consent.