Meta-Analysis of Evaluation Studies under AGECS (Advancing Gender Equality through Civil Society )

Meta-Analysis of Evaluation Studies under AGECS Background The Aga Khan Foundation is implementing a program co-funded by the Global Affairs Canada (GAC) and AKFC known as Foundations for Education and Empowerment (F4EE). This is a five-year (2020-2025) project that will improve educational systems at the pre-primary and primary level, in addition to strengthening women’s empowerment and gender equality in five countries: Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Tanzania, and Uganda. Advancing Gender Equality through Civil Society (AGECS) is one of the three components under F4EE which has been implemented since 2021 through14 local civil society organizations (CSOs) 2 University partners in Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Tanzania, and Uganda. The six-year project strengthens the capacity of 14 CSOs to advance gender equality and women’s rights in diverse and often complex contexts. Each CSO has conducted baseline and endline evaluations, with some also conducting midline assessments per sub project. These studies provide valuable evidence on progress, challenges, and results at project level. AKF now seeks to commission a meta-analysis to synthesize these evaluations, generate cross-cutting insights, and inform strategic learning and decision-making. Objectives of the Assignment The overall objective is to conduct a meta-analysis of the sub project evaluations conducted by AGECS grantees to: Assess the overall performance of the projects Assess the overall effectiveness of the AGECS program across contexts. Identify patterns, common themes, and variations in outcomes including unintended outcomes. Document enabling and limiting factors for gender equality programming via CSOs. Strengthen AKF’s knowledge base on what works in advancing gender justice through civil society. Provide actionable recommendations for to inform future programming. Provide success stories and other collateral material to support proposal and project design, for both AKF and partner CSOs. Scope of Work The consultant will: Review key F4EE project files such as the PIP and PMF to be familiar with the outcomes and how AGECS ties into the bigger F4EE picture Review and catalogue all available sub-projects evaluation reports (baseline, midline, and endline) from CSOs and University partnerships. Design and apply an analytical framework for synthesizing findings across different studies. Identify and analyse core indicators and outcome measures across projects. Examine contextual factors influencing outcomes and draw comparative insights across countries. Identify best practices, innovative approaches, and persistent challenges in achieving gender equality. Produce a comprehensive meta-analysis report, a summary presentation, and a brief with strategic recommendations. Deliverables Inception report with methodology, tools, and work plan Annotated bibliography/catalogue of studies reviewed Draft meta-analysis report Final meta-analysis report (max 30 pages, plus annexes) Summary presentation for AKF teams Two-page learning summary Methodology The consultant is expected to apply a robust, participatory, and gender-responsive methodology, including: Systematic review techniques Qualitative and quantitative synthesis where possible Coding and thematic analysis Use of frameworks such as OECD DAC, Outcome Harvesting, or gender review frameworks. AKF will support access to documents and relevant stakeholders as needed. Timeline The assignment is expected to take approximately 45 working days between October and November 2025. Consultant Profile Proven expertise in evaluation, research synthesis, and gender programmingDemonstrated experience with meta-analyses or systematic reviews Familiarity with civil society strengthening approaches Expertise in gender—responsive programmingand/or feminist approaches Strong writing and communication skills Knowledge of east and southern Africa cultural and development context

1. Application Process Interested candidates should submit: - Technical proposal outlining understanding, approach, and timeline - Financial proposal (including taxes and any travel costs, if applicable) - CV(s) of consultant(s) - Sample of similar work conducted Interested applicants should share all required documents by email to [email protected] with the subject line: “AGECS Impact Documentation’’. Proposals should be received not later than the 9th of October 2025.