Shillong ( Meghalaya), Oct 20 : The Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Policy Research & Analysis at IIM Shillong organized a 2-day training program on “Selection and Management of Consultants for World Bank Funded Projects” for the northeastern region of India. In collaboration with the World Bank, this training initiative aims to enhance the efficiency of implementing agencies in navigating the essential procedures of selecting and managing consultants for projects financed by the World Bank. The program aligns with the World Bank’s Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers.
The comprehensive two-day training program will cover a wide array of essential topics including Selection Methods and Market Approaches for the Selection and Employment of Consultants, Types of Contracts, Development of Terms of References, Standard Request for Proposals, Consultancy Services, Red Flags in Consultancy, and other vital areas addressing the common concerns of implementing agencies.
Speaking during the inaugural address, Prof. D.P Goyal, Director of IIM Shillong, emphasized the significance of this training initiative and acknowledged the institution’s remarkable 15-year journey. He stated, “By the end of the program, participants will be equipped to confidently and effectively strategize, plan, and execute the hiring and employment of consultants in strict accordance with the Procurement Framework and Regulations of the World Bank”. Prof. Goyal also highlighted the various initiatives undertaken by IIM Shillong for the benefit and development of the northeastern region.
The training program features sessions led by subject matter experts from the World Bank, including Dr.B S Chetty, Mrs. Geeta Shivdasani, and Sreenivas Devarakonda, in addition to the esteemed faculty of IIM Shillong.
A total of 38 participants from 13 departments and agencies involved in World Bank-funded projects are actively participating in this training program, demonstrating the commitment of the region to enhancing their project management capabilities.
Dr. Sanjeev Ningombam, the Centre Coordinator of Dr. Kalam Centre, expressed his enthusiasm for the program’s success and mentioned, “The Centre will initiate and roll out many more similar training programs in the coming days in association with the World Bank”.