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Promoting Employment and Employability among Refugees, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Host Communities focusing on Women, PWDs, and Youths
Organization International Labour OrganizationLocation IraqType FULL TIMEPosted 10 May 2026Deadline 21 May 2026
Program/Project Management
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Full Description
**Promoting Employment and Employability among Refugees, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Host Communities focusing on Women, PWDs, and Youths in Northern Iraq**
TOR Title Implement market-relevant vocational and apprenticeship programs support graduates with career guidance and targeting the job seekers from the host communities, forcibly displaced persons (FDPs), and refugees in Ninawa
Country Iraq
Project Code IRQ/24/02/DEU-109846
Estimated Duration From 01/06/2026
to 15/08/2026
1. Capacities of government stakeholders and social partners to develop comprehensive, equitable and evidence-based policy frameworks for productive inclusion of young internally displaced persons and refugees, particularly young women and persons with disabilities, in the labour market are strengthened
3: Improved capacity of emerging and existing MSMEs to establish and expand their businesses.
Output: 1.3: Social dialogue on refugees, IDPs and youth employment for and with refugees, IDPs and youth is facilitated.
2.2: Capacities of private sector entities and other employers are enhanced to provide apprenticeship programmes and create decent jobs for youth, with a focus on green economy
2.3: Refugees, IDPs and host communities with a focus on young women and men are benefitting from vocational skills training and work-based learning with a focus on green jobs.
2.5: Career guidance and life-skills tools are developed for green employment opportunities.
2.6: Unemployed young women and men, including persons with disabilities and representatives of refugees and IDPs, are provided with job search assistance through peer-to-peer support and guidance
3.2: Improved financial inclusion of start-ups business and existing MSMEs in sectors with potential for job creation, including in green economy
1.3.3: Conduct 4 tripartite plus roundtable discussions on key policy and strategic constraints of green employment matters through the established social dialogue platform.
Activity BL 2.3.1: Sign implementation agreement with selected TVET centre to provide market relevant skills development training for young women and men in the targeted governorates.
2.3.2: Provide market-relevant vocational skills to 75 youths (refugees, IDPs and host communities in Ninawa VTC
2.5.3: Cascade career guidance and life-skills training to 250 young women and men end beneficiaries who pass through skills development training and apprenticeship programmes.
2.6.5: Monitor JSCs and assess employment status of 100 young beneficiaries who passed through JSCs
3.2.2: Support linkage of at least 75entrepreneurs and existing MSMEs trained in Financial Education and Improve Your Business to access financial products (credit) from financial institutions
PROJECT BACKGROUND
a) General background
Despite Iraq having a youthful population, with nearly 50 percent of the population under 19 years of age, and 20 percent of the population between 15 and 24, there are limited opportunities to absorb the population into productive learning, employment, and enterprise opportunities. Young people suffer disproportionately from recent conflicts and poor economic conditions, presented by: Low chances of access to jobs; where only some 26.5 per cent of youth aged 15 to 24 are in the labour force compared to 45.8 per cent for adults (25+ years old) and alarming high rates of youth unemployment at 35.8 per cent which is more than three times than that of the adult (25+ years old) unemployment rate which stands at 11.2 per cent. Furthermore, young refugees and internally displace persons face difficulty in finding jobs that would enable them to cover their basic costs of living, and those living outside camps may find it difficult to compete with those in camps where living costs are lower, allowing them to accept lower wages. The study confirms that a large percentage of the unemployed are new entrants to the labour market and poses a key challenge for their re-integration in a fragile, post-conflict economy.
In response, the ILO’s “Promoting Employment and Employability among Refugees, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Host Communities focusing on Women, PWDs, and Youths in Northern Iraq” project aims to strengthen technical and vocational education and training (TVET) systems and private sector-led apprenticeships to equip youth with employable skills. Through collaboration with selected TVET centres and private employers, the project will deliver demand-driven vocational training and work-related learning (WBL)/ apprenticeships aligned with labour market needs in green and growth-oriented sectors.
b) Project in IRAQ
This project aims to strengthen the employability and labour market integration of refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), persons with disabilities (PWDs), and host community youth in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, specifically in Dohuk, Erbil, and Sulaymaniyah and Ninawa. The initiative addresses the persistent barriers faced by marginalized young people—limited access to quality technical training, restricted employment opportunities, and insufficient career guidance—by providing a comprehensive package of skills development and employment services.
A key component of the project focuses on enhancing vocational training and work-based learning pathways in partnership with TVET centres, universities, and private sector actors across the three governorates. Market-relevant technical and core skills training will be delivered based on labour market diagnostics and aligned with emerging opportunities in green and growth-oriented sectors. Following the training, young participants will transition into structured apprenticeship placements with local employers, supported by coaching and technical guidance to ensure adherence to occupational standards and decent work principles.
To complement training and apprenticeships, the project will also strengthen public employment services (PES) in the region, enabling young jobseekers to access essential services such as job matching, counselling, and labour market information. Career guidance and life-skills coaching will further support youth in navigating employment pathways and building their readiness for work.
In addition, the project promotes inclusive policy dialogue by establishing dedicated social dialogue platforms and facilitating tripartite-plus discussions that engage government institutions, employers, workers’ organizations, youth groups, and other stakeholders. These platforms will address key issues related to youth employment and foster coordinated, sustainable approaches to labour market inclusion.
Through this integrated and area-focused approach, the project contributes to a stronger TVET–PES ecosystem in the Kurdistan Region and Ninawa, reinforces collaboration among regional partners, and expands equitable access to decent work opportunities for marginalized youth, ultimately supporting more resilient and inclusive economic transitions.
ASSIGNMENT BACKGROUND
Ninawa continues to experience significant labour market pressures driven by prolonged displacement, economic instability, and limited access to inclusive employment pathways. Refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), young women, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and host community youth face structural challenges that hinder their transition into decent and sustainable work. These barriers include gaps in technical skills, unequal access to work-based learning and apprenticeship opportunities, weak employment services, and limited engagement of stakeholders in coordinated social dialogue on youth employment.
In response to these challenges, the International Labour Organization (ILO) is implementing an integrated skills and employability programme designed to enhance youth transition to work in Ninawa. The initiative focuses on strengthening the ecosystem of vocational training, apprenticeships, public employment services, and youth-focused career guidance in Ninawa. Through close collaboration with TVET centres, private sector partners, chambers of commerce, and local authorities, the project aims to ensure that young people gain access to market-relevant skills aligned with emerging green and growth-oriented sectors.
Work-based learning is positioned as a key bridge between training and employment. By building the capacities of local employers and expanding structured apprenticeship pathways, the project seeks to provide young people with practical, hands-on experience in real work environments. In parallel, strengthening public employment services enhances the support available to jobseekers by improving job-matching functions, counselling services, and career guidance tools tailored to local labour market needs.
To reinforce institutional coordination and inclusiveness, the project will also promote social dialogue mechanisms that bring together government stakeholders, employers, workers’ representatives, youth groups, and civil society actors. These platforms will foster collaborative problem-solving, advance policy discussions on youth employment, and support more responsive and equitable labour market interventions in the region.
Overall, the assignment contributes to building a more coherent, demand-driven, and inclusive employment ecosystem in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, enabling marginalized youth to access productive opportunities, strengthen their resilience, and participate more fully in the region’s economic recovery and green transition.
ASSIGNMENT OBJECTIVES
The overall objective of this assignment is to enhance the employability, labour market integration, and economic resilience of refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), persons with disabilities (PWDs), and host community youth in Ninawa. The assignment aims to strengthen systems, services, and institutional partnerships that support young people’s transition into sustainable and decent work opportunities.
Specific objectives:
• Provide market-relevant vocational training to youth in Ninawa.
• Support job seekers with career guidance and life-skills support.
• Promote inclusive social dialogue on youth employment
• Link existing SMEs to access financial support from Financial Institutions supported by other ILO projects.
• Provide follow up support to JSC graduated participants through existing JSC facilitators.
SCOPE OF WORK and METHODOLOGY
The project seeks to partner with a not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation (NGO) to be responsible for delivering the assignment in coordination with the International Labour Organization (ILO). The work will be implemented through accredited TVET centres, Public Employment Centres and Small Medium Enterprises operating under Directorate of Labour and Social Affairs (DoLSA) supervision.
2\. Scope of Work
To ensure timely implementation within the project duration, activities will be designed and executed in a parallel and overlapping manner, rather than sequentially. Vocational training, apprenticeship programmes, career guidance, and social dialogue activities will be implemented concurrently where feasible, with coordinated planning and scheduling. This approach will maximize efficiency, ensure optimal use of time, and enable the project to achieve its targets within the defined timeframe.
The scope of work encompasses a coordinated set of activities designed to improve youth employment and employability which include support to vocational skills training, work-based learning opportunities, strengthen public employment services, expand career guidance delivery, and promote inclusive social dialogue on youth employment in Ninawa.
a) Mobilize and select eligible trainees and job seekers
Mobilize and select eligible trainees from refugees, IDPs, PWDs, young women, and host communities ensuring adherence to proportions and guidance shown in Table 1:
Table 1
Target Groups and number of direct beneficiaries Governorate Total Women PWDs Youths IDPs Host Community
Vocational Skills training Ninawa 75 37 4 38 38 37
Apprenticeship program Ninawa 50 25 3 25 25 25
Career Guidance Ninawa 250 125 13 125 125 125
Link MSMEs to credit Ninawa 75 37 4 38 38 37
JSC Follow up Ninawa 102
b) Delivery of Technical and Vocational Training
Implement labour-market-aligned technical and core skills training for up to 45 days through TVET centres programs in enhancing employability in the green sector. The envisaged ILO support to DOLSA and VTCs in Mosul/Ninawa will target market-relevant occupations in the green economy. Ensure that the following vocational skills will be trained as shown in Table 2 with guidance from ILO and DOLSA. However, a cost estimation exercise is needed to finalise the list of courses to be supported based on the budget available.
Table 2
Vocational Training Programme Number of beneficiaries (Depend on availability and cost of course) Number of cohorts Total training duration (days) Days of Technical training (days)
Photovoltaic (PV) System Installation and maintenance 15 2 45 39
Modern agriculture focusing on irrigation methods and solar energy use 15 1 45 39
Using modern insulation methods in construction 15 1 45 39
Building and Ground Heating Systems 15 1 45 39
Mushroom Planting 15 1 40 34
Fruit drying and packaging 15 1 45 39
• Deliver technical and vocational training (45 Days) to 75 young women and men through accredited TVET centre in Ninawa.
• Ensure training is aligned with labour market diagnostics and green economy opportunities.
• Strengthen the capacity of TVET centres to design and deliver inclusive, demand-driven training programmes.
c) Delivering Apprenticeship program: The implementation will be through ILO designed three apprenticeship curriculum which plan as follow:
Delivering apprenticeship program to 50 young women and men through accredited TVET centre and SMEs in Ninawa in the green sector ILO designed curriculum mentioned in the table below. The envisaged ILO support to DOLSA and VTCs in Mosul/Ninawa will target market-relevant occupations in the green economy. Ensure that the following vocational skills will be trained as shown in Table 3 with guidance from ILO and DOLSA. However, a cost estimation exercise is needed to finalise the list of courses to be supported based on the budget available.
Table 3
WBL/ Apprenticeship program Vocational Centre based training duration (Hours) Vocational Centre based training duration (Days) Work Based Learning Training duration (Hours) Work Based Learning Training duration (Days) Total Duration (Hours) Total Duration (Days)
PV systems Installation and Maintenance 150 26 150 19 300 45
Hydroponic Cultivation 184 30 184 23 368 53
Protected Cultivation/ Greenhouse Production 196 32 196 25 392 57
d) Career Guidance and Life-Skills Coaching-Deliver structured career guidance, employability coaching, and life-skills sessions for 250 job seekers
e) Social Dialogue and Multi-Stakeholder Engagement-Facilitate 4 tripartite-plus discussions focused on youth employment challenges, opportunities, and policy recommendations involving government stakeholders, employers, workers’ organizations, youth groups, and civil society.
f) Linkage to access to financial support-Support linkage of at least 75 entrepreneurs and existing MSMEs to access financial products (credit) from financial institutions
g) Provide JSC follow up services: follow up 102 JSC graduated through providing post training follow up services through existing JSC facilitators.
3\. Methodology
The following methodologies will be used for the various activities:
a) Conduct Vocational Training
The implementation cycle of a vocational training programme should consist of the following main processes:
Selection of the training programmes: Selection of market relevant occupations/training programmes that will be implemented under this project.
Recruitment of trainees: Recruiting 75 trainees for the envisaged vocational training programmes (the exact number of the beneficiaries and training programmes will be identified based on the budget available). The trainees should match the criteria mentioned above for selecting the targeted beneficiaries. The ILO “Competency Profiling Tool” could be used to define the profile of the selected trainees and ensure proper career counselling services and orientations were provided to them.
Provision of the needed equipment and tools: Ensuring that the needed facilities, equipment, tools, raw materials, and staffing are available to conduct the vocational training programmes; Provide the needed equipment and tools
Implementation of the training programmes: Implementing short-term vocational training programmes (2 to 3 months) in the vocational training centre under DOLSA in Ninawa.
Assessment and certification of the trainees: Conducting formative and final summative assessments to the trainees using the pre-developed assessment grids/sheets and by using objectively verifiable assessment indicators, criteria, and qualifiers; Providing certificates in line with DOLSA regulations.
b) Conduct apprenticeship program
The implementation cycle of apprenticeship training programme should consist of the following main processes:
Selection of the training programmes: Selection of market relevant occupations/training programmes that designed by ILO under this project.
Recruitment of trainees: Recruiting 50 trainees for the envisaged apprenticeship training programmes (the exact number of the beneficiaries and training programmes will be identified based on the budget available). The trainees should match the criteria mentioned above for selecting the targeted beneficiaries. The ILO “Competency Profiling Tool” could be used to define the profile of the selected trainees and ensure proper career counselling services and orientations were provided to them.
Recruitment of SMEs: Recruiting SMEs specialized in the mentioned occupations in Ninawa for the envisaged apprenticeship training programmes. The trainees should match the criteria mentioned above for selecting the targeted beneficiaries. The ILO “Competency Profiling Tool” could be used to define the profile of the selected SMES and ensure proper career counselling services and orientations were provided to them.
Provision of the needed equipment and tools: Ensuring that the needed facilities, equipment, tools, raw materials, and staffing are available to conduct the vocational training programmes; Provide the needed equipment and tools
Implementation of the training programmes: Implementing short-term Work based learning training programmes in the relevant selected occupations in Ninawa.
Assessment and certification of the trainees: Conducting formative and final summative assessments to the trainees using the pre-developed assessment grids/sheets and by using objectively verifiable assessment indicators, criteria, and qualifiers; Providing certificates in line with DOLSA regulations.
c) Career Guidance and Life-Skills Coaching
• Work with the Public Employment Service centre (PES) and Career Development Centre (CDC) in Ninawa.
• Provide structured career guidance, employability coaching, and life-skills training for youth, contextualised to local needs and delivered using ILO guidance manuals by certified ILO-trained facilitators.
• Institutionalize ILO career guidance methodologies within Career Development Centres and PES structures.
• Support DoLSA counsellors to administer assessments, group sessions, and individualized support.
d) Social Dialogue and Multi-Stakeholder Engagement
• Facilitate 4 tripartite-plus discussions focused on youth employment challenges, opportunities, and policy recommendations involving government stakeholders, employers, workers’ organizations, youth groups, and civil society.
• Facilitate policy discussions and consensus-building around inclusive employment pathways.
e) Linkage to access to financial support
Support linkage of at least 75 entrepreneurs and existing MSMEs to access financial products (credit) from financial institutions by working with other ILO projects.
f) JSC follow up services:
follow up 102 beneficiary that got benefit of JSC methodology through providing post training follow up services by existing JSC facilitators who rollout the clubs.
g) Monitoring, Evaluation, and Quality Assurance
• Monitoring and reporting on the effectiveness of these programmes including the strengths and weaknesses, challenges, lessons learned, future improvements, and success stories.
• Use standardized ILO monitoring tools to track participation, apprenticeship completion, PES service delivery, and employment outcomes.
• Conduct regular joint field visits by ILO and DoLSA.
• Document lessons learned and adjusted programming as needed.
4\. Roles and Responsibilities
Role Clarification Mechanism
To ensure efficient implementation and avoid duplication, responsibilities between the Implementing Partner (IP) and DoLSA will follow a lead-support model. The Implementing Partner will take the lead in operational implementation and delivery, while DoLSA will provide institutional oversight, validation, and facilitation support. All activities will be coordinated jointly, with clear approval and reporting lines established at the inception phase.
A. Implementing Partner (Lead Implementer)
The Implementing Partner will be responsible for the overall operational implementation of the assignment, including:
• Lead the planning, organization, coordination, and day-to-day management of all project activities from inception to completion.
• Lead the mobilization, outreach, and screening of beneficiaries, in coordination with DoLSA, which will validate final beneficiary lists.
• Lead the implementation of vocational training and apprenticeship programmes through TVET centres and SMEs, including trainer engagement, logistics, and training delivery.
• Develop and finalize training plans, work schedules, and implementation strategies in coordination with ILO and DoLSA.
• Undertake all procurement processes (raw materials, equipment, tools, trainers, and operational resources) in line with ILO rules and approved budgets.
• Manage all financial aspects, including payments to trainees, trainers, and project staff, in accordance with ILO regulations.
• Provide technical and operational support to TVET centres, including capacity strengthening and ensuring quality delivery of training programmes.
• Lead the implementation of apprenticeship programmes, including coordination with SMEs and placement of trainees.
• Lead the delivery of career guidance and life-skills sessions in coordination with PES and CDC structures.
• Lead JSC follow-up activities, ensuring post-training support to beneficiaries through coordination with existing facilitators.
• Prepare and submit all technical and financial reports to ILO, ensuring accuracy and compliance with reporting requirements, with DoLSA providing validation where required.
• Ensure cross-cutting inclusion principles (gender, disability, vulnerability) are integrated across all activities.
• Monitor implementation progress, document lessons learned, challenges, and success stories, and propose improvements.
• Assign qualified staff (project officer, M&E officers, trainers, etc.) and manage project teams.
• Liaise with DoLSA, employers, and private sector actors to support job placement and labour market integration of graduates.
B. DoLSA and TVET Centres (Oversight and Institutional Support)
DoLSA will play a supervisory, validation, and facilitation role, ensuring alignment with national systems and standards.
Oversight & Supervision
• Provide overall supervision and institutional oversight of project implementation in coordination with ILO.
• Ensure that all activities are aligned with national policies, TVET standards, and labour regulations.
• Validate final beneficiary selection lists to ensure compliance with inclusion criteria.
Implementation Support (Non-Lead Role)
• Facilitate access to TVET centres, PES offices, and youth centres for programme delivery.
• Support coordination with local authorities, employers, chambers of commerce, and community networks.
• Support the identification and engagement of SMEs for apprenticeship placements.
• Provide certified facilitators (e.g. JSC) to support follow-up activities.
Training & Quality Assurance
• Provide technical supervision of training delivery, ensuring compliance with standards.
• Support assessment and certification processes in line with DoLSA regulations.
• Monitor trainee attendance, participation, and overall training quality (jointly with IP).
Career Guidance & PES
• Support the operation and strengthening of PES centres.
• Facilitate coordination between PES, TVET centres, and employers.
• Support the delivery and institutionalization of career guidance services.
Data & Reporting
• Maintain institutional records and support data verification and validation.
• Review and endorse reports submitted by the Implementing Partner where required.
• Support tracer studies and feedback mechanisms.
C. International Labour Organization (ILO) (Technical Oversight & Governance)
The ILO will provide strategic oversight, technical guidance, and financial supervision, including:
Technical Oversight & Quality Assurance
• Provide technical guidance on vocational training, apprenticeships, PES, career guidance, and social dialogue.
• Define and approve beneficiary selection criteria and inclusion targets.
• Ensure quality standards in curricula, training delivery, and work-based learning.
• Support development of tools, methodologies, and monitoring systems.
Coordination & Stakeholder Engagement
• Facilitate coordination between DoLSA, Implementing Partner, employers, and social partners.
• Lead and support social dialogue platforms and tripartite-plus consultations.
Financial Oversight
• Review and approve budgets, implementation plans, and financial reports.
• Manage disbursement of funds in accordance with ILO regulations.
• Verify expenditures and ensure compliance with donor requirements.
Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting
• Conduct joint monitoring visits with DoLSA.
• Ensure systematic data collection, reporting, and evidence generation.
• Support tracer studies, evaluations, and final reporting.
• Ensure visibility of ILO and donor contributions across all intervention sites and communication platforms.
Key deliverables:
Deliverables Target / Description timeline
Deliverable #1: Develop Inception report, implementation plan, work schedule, and coordination arrangements. Sharing inception report, Implementation plan and timeline, and coordination with the relevant stakeholders’ documents 10 June 2026
Deliverable #2: Completion of 45-day vocational training for 75 youth and share training report (including attendance sheets, assessments, and certification.
At least 75 youth trainees (50% women, 50% Youth, 50% IDPs ,50% Host community, 5% PWDs) complete 45-day market-relevant training in Ninawa 15 July 2026
Deliverable #3: PES deliver career guidance services/ life skills for 250 jobseekers. 250 youth jobseekers (50% women, 50% youth, 50% IDPs ,50% Host community, 5% PWDs) receiving ILO adapted career guidance/life-skills orientation. 15 July 2026
Deliverable #4: Completion of up to 60-day apprenticeship training program for 50 youth and share training report (including attendance sheets, assessments, and certification lists). At least 50 youth trainees (50% women, 50% youth, 50% IDPs ,50% Host community, 5% PWDs) complete up to 60 days market-relevant training in Ninawa
10 August 2026
Deliverable #5: JSC follow up services for 102 JSC graduates. Provide three-month JSC follow up services to 102 JSC graduates through existing JSC facilitators 15 August 2026
Deliverable #6: facilitate 4 tripartite-plus consultations dialogues over 3 months 4 tripartite-plus consultation sessions among social partners (Gvt, Chamber of Commerce and Trade Unions) 15 August 2026
Reporting
The implementing partner will report directly to the ILO Project Manager and National Project Officer (GIZ Project).
Regular monitoring visits will be conducted jointly by ILO and MOLSA representatives.
Three technical and financial reports should be submitted during the IA period as follows:
First technical and financial progress reports should be submitted by 15 July 2026 (Deliverable #1 and Deliverable #2) should be associated with and detailing the following:
• Training report which includes the training achievement, challenges and training evaluation.
• Attended sheet of the training participants with original signatures.
• Photos of the training.
• BOQs and actual invoices in case of any assets or raw materials required for the training site.
• Full detailed inception report describing understanding of the IA and methodology of work.
• The steps that were taken to equally benefit women, people with disabilities, and disadvantaged groups from host communities, IDPS, and refugees.
• Agreement and selection criteria for the selected SMEs for apprenticeship program
• Provide logical work plan to conduct the IA activities and training with the project period.
• Share all relevant MoU agreements with relevant institutions to ensure smooth implementation.
Second technical and financial progress reports should be submitted by 10 August 2026 (Deliverable #3 and Deliverable #4) should be associated with and detailing the following:
• Training report which includes the training achievement, challenges and training evaluation.
• Attended sheet of the training participants with original signatures.
• Photos of the training.
• BOQs and actual invoices in case of any assets or raw materials required for the training site.
• Trainees’ evaluation form which been used by selected SMEs for apprenticeship program.
• Training report which includes the training achievement, challenges and training evaluation.
• Attended sheet of the training participants with original signatures.
• Photos of the training.
• BOQs and actual invoices in case of any assets or raw materials required for the training site.
Final technical and financial progress reports should be submitted by 15 August 2026 (Deliverable #5 and Deliverable #6) should be associated with and detailing the following:
• Final report including the methodology and working mechanism for the established 4 tripartite-plus consultations dialogues sessions.
• Attended sheet of the workshop/session’s participants with original signatures.
• Photos of the workshop/sessions.
• Flight, transportation and accommodation vouchers
• Final follow up progress report with pictures and relevant data.
All data, reports, and materials developed under this assignment shall remain the intellectual property of the International Labour Organization (ILO).
REQUIRED EXPERTISE OF THE IMPLEMENTING PARTNER
ILO is seeking a Non-Governmental Organization, not-for profit (Implementing partner) to support DOLSA and MSMEs in Ninawa Governorate in implementing this entire assignment in accordance with the implementation methodology above. With ILO’s technical guidance and in close coordination with DOLSA.
The envisaged implementing partner will have the following required expertise.
• Proven experience in the design, implementation, and management of youth employment and employability programmes, including vocational skills development, work-based learning, apprenticeships, and labour market integration initiatives for refugees, IDPs, host community youth, women, and persons with disabilities.
• Proven competencies in coordinating and delivering market-driven vocational training programmes, strengthening public employment services (PES), providing career guidance and life-skills coaching, and facilitating partnerships with TVET institutions, employers, and chambers of commerce.
• A good understanding of the markets for products and services, labour market dynamics, skills demand, and private sector needs in Iraq particularly in Ninawa with a focus on green and growth-oriented sectors.
• Have practical experience in working with government institutions, TVET centres, private sector actors, employers’ and workers’ organizations, and community-based organizations to deliver inclusive skills development, employment services, and apprenticeship programmes.
• Proven experience in facilitating multi-stakeholder coordination and social dialogue mechanisms, including tripartite-plus consultations related to youth employment, skills development, and labour market inclusion.
• Proven excellent reporting, communication, and documentation skills in both Arabic and English languages, including preparation of technical and financial reports in line with donor and ILO reporting requirements.
SELECTION CRITERIA OF THE IMPLEMENTING PARTNER
• Be a legal Organization duly registered.
• Organizations carrying out non-profit oriented work, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), foundations
• Have a demonstrated active presence and strong work foundations and previous experience in Iraq, preferably in Ninawa, in implementing youth employment, vocational training, apprenticeship, PES strengthening, and career guidance programmes.
• Willingness to be truly inclusive of all and to practice non-discrimination in selecting trainees, hiring staff, and providing tailored support to refugees, IDPs, women, and persons with disabilities to ensure successful participation, completion of the programme, and transition to employment or self-employment.
• Have the requisite qualified and competent personnel/staff for both management and technical roles, as well as the necessary infrastructure and administrative and logistical capacity to undertake the specific activities outlined in the project.
• Strong relations, linkages, and collaborations with government and non-government institutions focusing on employment, vocational training, labour market services, youth development, and private sector engagement.
• Demonstrated financial reliability and accountability, including an established and effective system of financial management, internal controls, and audits.
• Previous experience working with the ILO and/or demonstrated knowledge of ILO approaches, tools, and methodologies for skills development, employment services, apprenticeships, and social dialogue will be considered an asset.
• Willingness to comply with ILO reporting, monitoring, evaluation, and visibility requirements.
• Strong networking and collaboration with TVET centres, PES offices, employers, chambers of commerce, civil society organizations, and youth networks.
• Required expertise as outlined above.
PROPOSAL SUBMISSION PROCEDURE
The ILO invites technical and financial proposals from qualified organizations to meet the above criterion as stipulated in this Terms of Reference (TOR). Technically responsive and financially viable organization/entity will be chosen following ILO’s procurement rules/procedures on evaluation by ILO team of professionals.
In the technical proposals, bidders should also share a signed version of Annexes 2 and 3 -Terms and Conditions of an IA and the Declaration form.
The bidding organisation must submit the proposed offer “Technical and Financial Proposals” in separate digital folders mentioning “Technical Proposal” and “Financial Proposal” on each digital folder so that the financial information could not be revealed before financial proposal opening. The two digital folders saved in one digital folder (zipped) with the title saved as the full name of the bidder, followed by the project title “……, and date of submission”.
Questions from potential bidders on any section of this TOR are welcome. Please send relevant questions to the following email address: iraq-procurement@ilo.org.
Applications should be submitted by email to iraq-procurement@ilo.org.
Both financial and technical proposals should be valid for 90 days.
The deadline for submitting the technical and financial proposals is 21 May 2026
SELECTION CRITERIA
Technical Proposal (70%)
The Technical proposal will contain 70% weight, whereas Technical Evaluation passing score is 50%. Any applying entity that scores less than 50% in Technical Evaluation shall not be considered for financial evaluation. The technical proposal is expected to be submitted by the bidders in the following structure:
1\. Organization’s profile demonstrating required capacity, why they are the most suitable for the work, and local presence/activities in Ninawa governorate
2\. Detailed description of relevant past works and assignments related to Vocational training, public employment services and Social dialogue
3\. Interpretation of the TORs objectives, in addition to the proposed methodology on how they will approach and conduct the work
4\. Detailed work plan with a timeline related to the different activities in addition to implementation methods: coordination of partners, cooperation mechanisms, result-oriented, and M&E
5\. CVs of Team leader and staff involved in the project implementation demonstrating their capacity to conduct the assignment
6\. Foreseen challenges during the implementation of the project and mitigation methods
The Technical proposals will be evaluated in accordance with the criteria stated below:
Description of Technical Evaluation Score
1\. Relevant Experience in managing the design and implementation of similar works 15%
2\. Strong field presence in Ninawa governorates, and working with youth directorates, youth organizations, and youth networks 15%
3\. Understanding of the TORs and the aim of the services to be provided; Overall methodological approach, work plan, quality assurance, appropriateness of tools and estimated difficult and challenges 20%
4\. Organization of tasks, including the timetable 5%
5\. Human Resources proposed for the assignment (qualification and experience) + detailed CVs 10%
6\. Previous experience working with international bilateral donors 5%
Note:
• Clarity of the proposal, provision of all required documentation, and innovative delivery are considered as a cross-cutting measurement criteria.
• ILO has the right to request clarifications and/or pitch proposal on the technical and financial proposal from selected bidder(s)
Financial Proposal (30%)
The financial proposal will contain 30% weight. The bidders shall complete the financial proposal using Annex B (Financial Application form) and submit both the Excel version attached to this TOR and the PDF version signed. ‘
The standard ILO budget template shall be used by all applicants. Applicants may introduce additional budget lines, where necessary, to appropriately reflect the proposed implementation activities and associated operational requirements.
A full score of the 30% shall be given to the most cost effective/technically compliant financial application.
The financial proposal should indicate the number of conducted vocational training, career guidance session through PES, apprenticeships program conducted and social dialogue sessions and the total cost. The financial proposal will be evaluated based on price reasonableness, overall cost, and etc….
The financial proposal shall demonstrate the following items:
• Activity costs for the number of conducted vocational training, career guidance session through PES, apprenticeships program conducted including the costs of accommodation and DSA if required, tools and equipment needed (if any), transportation cost, in addition to any other costs, miscellaneous, and logistic costs (all of these costs will be paid by ILO to the implementing partner against submitted invoices supported by the needed evidence documents, such as procurement invoices, and signed sheets of attendance sheets)
• Management cost to manage the activities and tasks of the assignment including staffing cost (project leader, administrative and financial support, trainers-if any, reporting and mentoring officers, etc). Management cost will be paid against deliverables, as shown in the table below:
PAYMENT SCHEDULE
First Advance Payment First advance payment (20%)of the total agreement amount not to exceed 30,000 USD or equaivalent amount in IQD upon Signing the implementing agreement.
Second Advance Payment Second advance payment (45%) of the total IA value
1\. upon completion Deliverable #1 (Develop Inception report, implementation plan, work schedule, and coordination arrangements) and Deliverable #2 (Completion of 45-day vocational training for 75 youth and share training report (including attendance sheets, assessments, and certification lists) and to the satisfaction of ILO. By 15 July 2026
2\. Submission of 1st technical and financial reports using ILO template
3\. Spending 80% of previous advance
Third Advance Payment Third advance payment (30%) of the total IA value
1\. Upon completion of Deliverable #3 (Strengthened PES services for 250 jobseekers and delivery of career guidance/life-skills sessions to 250 youth) and Deliverable #4 (Completion of up to 60-day apprenticeship training program for 50 youth and share training report (including attendance sheets, assessments, and certification lists) and to the satisfaction of ILO. By 10 August 2026.
2\. Submission of 2nd technical and financial reports using ILO template
3\. Spending 80% of previous advance
Final Payment 5% of contract value upon submission and validation of the final report and completion of Deliverable #5(JSC follow up services for 102 JSC graduated.) and Deliverable #6 (facilitate 4 tripartite-plus consultations dialogues over 3 months). and to the satisfaction of ILO. By 15 August 2026
2\. Submission of Final technical and financial reports using ILO template
3\. Spending 80% of previous advance
TIME FRAME/EXPECTED DURATION
All assignment’s deliverables are expected to be delivered to the satisfaction of the ILO by 15 August 2026
SUPERVISION AND LOGISTICAL ARRANGEMENTS
The tasks and deliverables under this assignment will be carried out under the direct supervision of the Project Manager and national project officer for the GIZ funded project.
ANNEXES
1\. Standard IA template
2\. Terms and Conditions for the bidder to review and sign
3\. Declaration form to be signed
4\. Expenditure Report Template Sample used for reporting purposes
5\. Relevant conditions required by the donor
UNGM: Promoting Employment and Employability among Refugees, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Host Communities focusing on Women, PWDs, and Youths in Northern Iraq
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