Contracting Organization: SmartUp – Social Innovation Lab
Project: Policy Pilots for the National Development Strategy 2024-2044 & Foresight Unit Research
Introduction
SmartUp:
SmartUp Social Innovation Lab is an eco-system builder dedicated to connecting various stakeholders to promote and develop social innovation. With a mission to catalyze social innovation in North Macedonia and the broader region, SmartUp focuses on building a socially, environmentally, and economically sustainable society.
Project Overview:
The Government of the Republic of North Macedonia (RNM) is exploring the establishment of a foresight unit to anticipate and prepare for future challenges and opportunities. Such units use methods like scenario planning, trend analysis, horizon scanning, and strategic foresight to help policymakers understand long-term trends and emerging issues.
This project, managed by SmartUp, aims to conduct preliminary research on how a foresight unit could be developed and integrated within the government structure, ensuring informed decision-making and enhanced resilience.
Position: Consultant for Initial Research on Establishing a Foresight Unit in the Republic of North Macedonia
Purpose:
The consultant will conduct comprehensive preliminary research to explore the feasibility and potential integration of a foresight unit within the Government of RNM. This research will provide the basis for a blueprint for the establishment of such a unit.
1. Scope of Work
Preliminary Research:
Objective: To provide a detailed analysis of the current foresight landscape, potential integration points within the government, and best practices for establishing a foresight unit.
Key Tasks:
- Desk Research (10 days):
- Investigate the current foresight landscape in RNM, including existing initiatives and relevant government bodies.
- Analyze the government structure of RNM to identify suitable departments or bodies for integrating a foresight unit.
- Best Practices Research (5 days):
- Examine successful models of foresight units in other governments, analyzing their structures, functionalities, and achievements.
- Stakeholder Interviews (5 days):
- Develop interview questions and conduct interviews with relevant stakeholders, identified in consultation with SmartUp, UNHCR staff, and a subject-matter expert.
- Include consultations with international experts facilitated by UNDP/UNHCR.
- Production of the final report (10 days)
- Analyse and synthesise the information gathered
- Produce a written report outlining the possibilities for establishing a foresight unit in the Republic of North Macedonia
- Develop pathways/suggestions for the establishment of the foresight unit
2. Methodology
- Desk Research:
- Conduct a systematic review of relevant documents, including policies, government publications, independent research, academic journals, and strategies from both RNM and international sources.
- Synthesize findings to develop an initial blueprint for establishing a foresight unit.
- Interviews:
- Conduct semi-structured interviews with a range of local and international stakeholders to gain practical insights and gauge interest in establishing a foresight unit.
- Use insights from interviews to complement desk research and refine the final report.
3. Expected Outputs
- Final Report:
- Current Landscape: Overview of the existing foresight landscape in RNM.
- Opportunities: Identification of opportunities for establishing a foresight unit in RNM.
- Integration Points: Analysis of potential integration points within the Government and Parliament for the foresight unit.
- Unit Structure: Suggested structure and responsibilities for the foresight unit.
- Responsibilities and Activities: Outline the unit’s responsibilities and key activities.
- Potential Impact: Assessment of the potential impact of the foresight unit on policymaking and strategic planning.
- Best Practices: Summary of best practices from successful foresight units globally.
- Next Steps: Recommendations for establishing the foresight unit.
4. Duration and Timeline
- Total Duration: 30 days
- Desk Research: 10 days
- Best Practices Research: 5 days
- Stakeholder Interviews: 5 days
- Production of final report: 10 days
5. Qualifications and Experience
- Proven experience in conducting research and analysis, particularly in the context of organisational design within governments or in general.
- Strong understanding of foresight practices and their applications in government settings.
- Excellent analytical and report-writing skills.
- Experience in conducting interviews with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, experts, and international organizations.
6. Reporting and Communication
The consultant will report to the designated project manager at SmartUp and collaborate closely with the subject-matter experts, and other stakeholders involved in the project.
7. Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their resume and examples of previous relevant work to [email protected] by 14.8.2024.
The daily fee for this role is set at 7,500 MKD gross per day, as defined in the project budget.
This activity is implemented by SmartUp – Social Innovation Lab in partnership with the Representation of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in North Macedonia (UNHCR) and United Nationals Development Programme (UNDP).
