Date: March 12, 2024
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has recently issued a Request for Information (RFI) regarding the Afghanistan Integrated Youth Activity. This announcement serves as an initial step in gathering insights and feedback from various stakeholders and is not a formal solicitation for proposals or applications.
Overview of the Request for Information
Version: Forecast 1
Forecasted Date: March 8, 2024
Last Updated Date: March 12, 2024
Estimated Application Due Date: March 21, 2024
Due Date for Responses/Comments: March 21, 2024, 10:00 AM Eastern Time
The RFI is designed to engage interested parties and solicit their input on potential strategies, challenges, and opportunities related to the proposed youth activity in Afghanistan. By doing so, USAID aims to gather valuable information that will help shape the future design and implementation of this initiative.
Objectives of the Afghanistan Integrated Youth Activity
The Afghanistan Integrated Youth Activity aims to address critical issues faced by Afghan youth, including education, employment, civic engagement, and health. The overarching goal is to empower young people and provide them with the necessary skills and opportunities to contribute positively to their communities and the nation’s development.
Key objectives include:
- Enhancing Educational Outcomes: Improving access to quality education and vocational training programs tailored to the needs of Afghan youth.
- Promoting Economic Opportunities: Supporting initiatives that create jobs, foster entrepreneurship, and provide young people with the skills required for the job market.
- Fostering Civic Engagement: Encouraging youth participation in community service, leadership roles, and decision-making processes.
- Improving Health and Well-being: Addressing health-related issues that affect young people, including mental health, reproductive health, and substance abuse prevention.
Importance of Stakeholder Feedback
USAID recognizes the importance of stakeholder engagement in developing effective and sustainable programs. Through this RFI, USAID seeks feedback from a wide range of stakeholders, including non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, private sector entities, and community groups. This input is crucial for understanding the on-the-ground realities and ensuring that the program design aligns with the needs and aspirations of Afghan youth.
Stakeholders are encouraged to provide their responses and comments by the deadline of March 21, 2024, at 10:00 AM Eastern Time. This feedback will be instrumental in refining the program’s approach and ensuring that it is both impactful and feasible.
Next Steps
While this RFI is not a Request for Applications (RFA) or a Request for Proposal (RFP), it is an important precursor to the formal solicitation process. The insights gained from the RFI will inform the development of a detailed program description and funding opportunity announcement, which will be released at a later date.
Interested parties should monitor USAID’s official channels for updates regarding the estimated post date, application due date, award date, and project start date. The fiscal year 2024 is set to be a significant period for advancing youth development initiatives in Afghanistan, and USAID is committed to collaborating with stakeholders to achieve these goals.
For more information and to submit feedback, stakeholders can visit the official USAID website or contact the designated representatives listed in the RFI announcement.
This proactive approach by USAID underscores its commitment to fostering a brighter future for Afghan youth through inclusive and well-informed program development. The Afghanistan Integrated Youth Activity promises to be a pivotal initiative in empowering the next generation and supporting the country’s long-term stability and growth.