NSDC invites RFP from agencies for KPO Services

National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), as part of its mission to skill India’s workforce, aims to establish effective partnerships with industry stakeholders, leverage apprenticeship programs, and enhance job placement opportunities for job seekers. NSDC intends to empanel an Agency for KPO (Knowledge Process Outsourcing) services. The eligible agencies with whom this RFP is shared, are invited to submit a Technical Proposal and a Financial Proposal against this RFP.

Duration of Assignment

The duration of assignment shall be 3 years from Letter/E-mail of Intent/start of agreement. However, the quality of service provided by the Consultant and the performance of the Consultant shall be reviewed continuously and in case the performance is found unsatisfactory, the Consultant’s contract can be terminated at NSDC’s discretion. If the project demands an extension and the performance is found satisfactory then the contract may be extended as required. In case there is a requirement for more Consultants for any reason, NSDC may procure services from more Consultants for similar purposes.

Submission of Proposal:

The Consultant shall submit Technical and Financial Proposal only on eProcurement Portal https://nsdc.eproc.in

Scope of Work:

This Scope of Work (SOW) seeks to engage a Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) agency to support NSDC in facilitating industry collaboration, strengthening employer engagement, and optimizing apprenticeship and placement initiatives. The scope of work encompasses but not limited to the activities related to research, analysis, and strategy development to enhance apprenticeship programs, foster collaboration with industries, engage employers effectively, and optimize placement opportunities for job seekers.

Geographical coverage:
The study to be undertaken will be pan India covering five regions – North, East, West, South and North-East covering both rural and urban areas.
Target segment:
Supply Side: Students – 9th to 12th standard, polytechnic, engineering, research, vocational (ITI & JSS) background from formal informal coaching etc., Workforce – blue collar, white collar etc., Skill Providers, Staffing Organization.
Demand Side: Large, MSMEs & Unorganized Sectors across key industries, Industries from various categories. Enhance the effectiveness of apprenticeship programs by identifying industry needs, aligning training with market demand, and optimizing program outcomes. Advance collaboration with industries to create a conducive ecosystem for apprenticeship, leveraging industry expertise, resources, and support. Strengthen employer engagement initiatives to promote the hiring of apprentices and enhance job placement opportunities for trained individuals.
Key Information Areas:
Agency is encouraged to add further pointers.
The KPO agency should possess expertise in:
- Conducting industry research and analysis to identify skill gaps, emerging trends, and industry-specific requirements for apprenticeship programs.
- Developing strategies and frameworks to foster collaboration between NSDC, industries, and other stakeholders to promote apprenticeship opportunities.
- Implementing employer engagement strategies, including outreach programs, employer incentives, and partnership development initiatives.
- Analyzing placement data, evaluating program effectiveness, and recommending improvements to enhance job placement outcomes for job seekers.
- Proficiency in data analytics tools and methodologies for conducting market research, performance analysis, and impact assessment of apprenticeship programs.
- Knowledge of industry standards, regulatory frameworks, and best practices related to apprenticeship, industry collaboration, and job placement.
- Understanding of various industry sectors and their skill requirements, with a focus on sectors relevant to NSDC’s skill development initiatives.
- Familiarity with apprenticeship frameworks, sector-specific apprenticeship models, and industry standards for skill training and employment.
- Adherence to quality standards and best practices in research, analysis, and strategy development.
- Rigorous quality assurance processes to ensure the accuracy, reliability, and relevance of research findings and strategic recommendations.
- Proposals will be evaluated based on the agency’s experience, expertise, approach/methodology, cost-effectiveness, and ability to achieve project objectives within the specified timeline.
Proposal Submission Requirements:
Detailed proposals should include a project plan, methodology, team composition, past experience, relevant case studies, and budget estimates, in alignment with the provided guidelines.
Proposal Evaluation Process:
A multi-stage evaluation process will involve the review of technical proposals, presentations, and discussions with shortlisted agencies, followed by the selection of the agency based on predetermined criteria.
Confidentiality and Data Security:
Ensure compliance with data protection laws, confidentiality agreements, and intellectual property rights, safeguarding sensitive information and proprietary data shared during the project.
Compliance Requirements:
Adherence to legal, regulatory, and ethical standards governing research, data collection, and engagement with industry stakeholders, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Risk Management:
Identify potential risks and mitigation strategies associated with project execution, including risk assessment, monitoring, and proactive measures to address unforeseen challenges.
Change Management:
Establish procedures for managing changes to project scope, requirements, or deliverables, with clear communication channels and change control mechanisms to ensure project continuity and alignment with objectives.
Communication Plan:
Develop a communication plan outlining regular updates, progress reports, stakeholder engagement activities, and escalation procedures to facilitate effective communication and collaboration throughout the project.
Performance Metrics and Reporting:
Define key performance indicators (KPIs) and reporting requirements to monitor project progress, evaluate outcomes, and track the agency’s resources performance against established benchmarks and targets.