Terms of Reference for the Production of Two Theme Songs on Gender and Inclusive Education

TERMS OF REFERENCE (TOR) FOR THE PRODUCTION OF TWO THEME SONGS ON GENDER AND INCLUSIVE EDUCATION

1.0 Background Information

Civil Society Education Coalition (CSEC) is an alliance of presently 84 diverse independent and voluntary organizations such as non – governmental organizations, community-based organizations, trade unions and faith-based organizations which promote quality education in Malawi. As a collective voice, CSEC was set up to complement government’s efforts in piloting innovations, coordinating non-state actors, shaping policy discourse, lobbying for increased budget allocation, as well as tracking the utilization of resources committed to the education sector. CSEC envisions “a society where all people enjoy the right to access quality and relevant education that promotes equity and critical thinking.” The Coalition is fully registered with the Malawi Government under the Trustees Incorporation Act (CAP 5:03). The Coalition is also a member of the Council for Non-Governmental Organizations in Malawi and the Non-Governmental Organization Board of Malawi. Regionally and globally, CSEC is a member of the African Campaign on Education for All (NACEFA) and Global Campaign on Education (GCE).

2.0 Purpose of the Assignment

CSEC seeks a qualified producer, artist, or entertainment company to create two powerful audio theme songs one in Chichewa and one in English promoting gender equity and inclusive education in Malawi. Each song will feature both a male and female artist and will be performed live in three education districts.

These songs will serve as impactful advocacy tools to raise awareness among communities, learners, and stakeholders about the right to quality education for all especially girls, children with disabilities, and other marginalized groups. We seek creative partners capable of delivering high-quality, engaging content that drives national dialogue and action on inclusive education.

3.0 Scope of Work

The consultant (s) will be expected to:

• Review relevant documents related to Gender and Inclusive Education in Malawi.
• Develop creative concepts and lyrics for two songs (one in Chichewa and one in English) based on the themes of Gender and Inclusive Education.
• Compose, arrange, and record the songs ensuring the messages are clear, culturally appropriate, and appealing to a broad audience.
• Produce two final high-quality audio songs (radio-ready quality).
• Incorporate feedback from CSEC at draft stages before finalizing the productions.
• The artists will be required to perform in three districts during the awareness campaign.

4.0 Deliverables

The consultant will deliver the following:

• An inception report detailing the methodology, creative approach, and proposed concepts/lyrics for approval.
• Draft versions of both songs for review and feedback.
• Final mastered audio files of two songs:
  – One in Chichewa
  – One in English

5.0 Duration of the Assignment

The assignment is expected to be completed within 7 working days from the date of contract signing for the production of theme songs and for performance dates will be communicated later.

6.0 Qualifications and Experience

The consultant, producer, artist, or entertainment company should possess the following:

• A minimum of a diploma in music production, performing arts, communications, or a related field. A degree will be an added advantage.
• Proven experience in composing and producing professional theme songs or advocacy jingles. Samples of previous work must be submitted with the expression of interest.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of gender, inclusion, and education issues in Malawi.
• Demonstrated ability to produce high-quality, culturally relevant music that resonates with diverse audiences, including learners, communities, and education stakeholders.

7.0 Application Process

Interested individuals or firms should submit:

• A technical proposal explaining the understanding of the assignment, approach, and methodology.
• A financial proposal with a detailed budget.
• Samples of similar previous work (audio productions).
• Updated CVs or organizational profiles.

Applications clearly marked “Theme Song Production: Gender and Inclusive Education” should be submitted by email to:

Submission Deadline

Applications should be submitted not later than 16th May 2025

The Executive Director

Civil Society Education Coalition (CSEC)

Chitukula Road, Area 47/4/719,

P.O. Box 30736, Lilongwe 3, Malawi Phone No: +265 999 61 37 51

Email: csecjobs905@gmail.com and copy kkumwenda04@gmail.com and marthakamangamhone@gmail.com