Terms of Reference

Services required for briefing paper on evaluating trends in education budget allocation in Pakistan

About CPDI

Centre for Peace and Development Initiatives (CPDI) is an independent, non-partisan and a not-for-profit civil society organization, which has been working on the issues of peace and development since 2005. It is registered under Section 42 of the Companies Ordinance, 1984 (XLVII of 1984), which was later substituted by the Companies Act 2017. CPDI seeks to inform and influence public policies and civil society initiatives through research-based advocacy and capacity building to promote active citizenship, build peace and achieve inclusive and sustainable development. Areas of special sectoral focus include promotion of peace and tolerance; rule of law; local governance; transparency and access to information; budget watch; media development; electoral reforms; legislative strengthening, democratic development, climate change mitigation and adaptation; and public health.

About the Assignment

1.         Background

The education sector in Pakistan plays a pivotal role in shaping the country's socio-economic landscape. Effective allocation and utilization of budgetary resources are crucial for addressing the diverse needs and challenges within this sector. Therefore, there is a pressing need to conduct a comprehensive analysis of trends in education budget allocation to inform evidence-based policymaking and foster improvements in educational outcomes.

Purpose and Scope of the Assignment:

The primary objective of this briefing paper is to evaluate trends in education budget allocation in Pakistan over recent fiscal years. Specific objectives include: assessing the allocation patterns of education budgets for the years 2022-2023, 2023-2024, and the proposed budget for 2024-2025, identifying key areas of focus and priorities reflected in the budget allocations,  analyzing the alignment of budget allocations with the overall goals and targets of the education sector, examining the implications of budgetary trends on educational access, quality, and equity across different regions and demographic groups.

1. Carry out a review of the government's education budget allocations for the fiscal years 2022-2023, 2023-2024, and 2024-2025.
2. Analyze the trends in budget allocation for education services over the specified period and assess the effectiveness of budget allocations in addressing the education sector's needs and challenges.
3. Identify any disparities between allocated budgets and the actual requirements of the education sector in Pakistan.
4. Compile a briefing paper presenting the findings of the budget analysis, including evidence-based insights and recommendations for future budgetary allocations.
5. Ensure the briefing paper is written with clarity, accuracy, and objectivity, supported by robust data with references.
6. Use pictorial depictions to show yearly trends of budget allocations.
7. Develop at least 10 short messages (English and Urdu) that can be shared on social media platforms for advocacy purposes.

2.         Deliverables and Payments:     

First draft of the briefing paper leading to the final version after incorporation of any feedback or suggestions of the management. The expert shall develop at least 10 short messages (English and Urdu) that can shared on social media platforms for advocacy purposes. Upon the completion of briefing paper, consultant will be paid a lump sum amount.

3.         Required Qualification/Specifications: 

• At least master’s degree in relevant discipline with more than  9-10 years of experience of education or relevant budget analysis.
• A good understanding of the education sector and its needs in Pakistan will be a plus point.
• Established budget expert with excellent understanding of budget documents and data analysis.
• Excellent in writing and presentation skills
• Ability to complete the briefing paper within given time.