Job Advertisement: Consultancy in Peer Reviews and Abstract Evaluations for Scholarly Papers for the Annual Peace Learning Conference

About PSA

Puntland Youth and Social Development Association (PSA) is a non-profit organization established in 2002, dedicated to promoting social-related activities and peacebuilding initiatives in Puntland, Somalia. PSA focuses on safeguarding vulnerable populations, advocating for human rights, and facilitating community-driven peace processes. Through partnerships with local communities, government agencies, and international organizations, PSA has played a pivotal role in fostering stability, resolving conflicts, and enhancing governance in the region. Its programs prioritize inclusivity, conflict sensitivity, and sustainable development to create a peaceful and secure environment in Puntland.

Project Background

PSA, along with its consortium partners, will implement the SSF III project in the border region between Puntland and Galmudug, an area that has historically experienced inter-communal and inter-state conflicts but is now witnessing a sustained ceasefire and increased cross-border cooperation. SSF III aims to build on this progress by supporting inclusive political agreements, addressing grievances, promoting democratic processes, strengthening local governance, and enhancing accountability between citizens and the state. The project will engage key stakeholders including the existing peace committees as well as the government in broader peacebuilding efforts to reinforce conflict resolution mechanisms and ensure their effectiveness in sustaining peace and stability.

The project will tackle several critical challenges, including recurrent inter-communal conflicts that threaten political settlements, the vulnerability of peace processes due to political divisions and external pressures, and competition over resources exacerbated by climate change. Additionally, SSF III will work to enhance early warning systems and dispute resolution mechanisms, particularly along the Puntland-Galmudug border. Recognizing the role of media in shaping narratives, the project will also address the risks posed by the proliferation of social media without adequate media literacy, which has the potential to escalate tensions.

Objectives:

The primary objective of this short-term consultancy is to conduct a thorough, critical, and constructive peer review of academic submissions. The consultant will be responsible for assessing the quality, methodology, clarity, and relevance of research papers and abstracts against high professional and academic standards. This review process is vital for maintaining the integrity and intellectual caliber ofthe Annual Peace Learning Conference conduct to the Puntland Development and Research Center (PDRC).

1. Scope of Work:

A. Review of 2024 Research Papers:

• Conduct a comprehensive review of a specified number of full research papers submitted for the 2024 Annual Peace Learning Conference.
• Provide detailed, written feedback on each paper, focusing on:
  • Academic Rigor: Soundness of methodology, theoretical framework, and data analysis.
  • Originality & Contribution: The paper’s novelty and its contribution to the existing body of knowledge on peace, conflict, and development.
  • Clarity and Structure: Logical flow, coherence of arguments, and overall structure.
  • Language and Presentation: Quality of writing, grammar, and adherence to academic formatting standards.
• Provide a definitive recommendation for each paper (e.g., Accept with Minor Revisions, Accept with Major Revisions, Reject) with clear justifications.

B. Review of 2025 Abstracts:

• Evaluate a batch of abstracts submitted for the 2025 Annual Peace Learning Conference.
• Assess each abstract based on:
  • Clarity of Objective: Is the research question or problem statement clear?
  • Relevance: Is the topic relevant to the themes of the conference and focus areas?
  • Methodology: Is the proposed methodological approach appropriate and feasible?
  • Potential Contribution: Does the abstract suggest a potential for meaningful insight or findings?
• Provide a scored assessment and a recommendation for each abstract (e.g., Invite to Submit Full Paper, Reject).

• Qualifications and Experience:

The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:

• A Master’s Degree in Peace and Conflict Studies, International Relations, Business Administration, Political Science, Sociology, Development Studies, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 3 years of proven experience in academic and social research, publication, and peer review processes.
• Demonstrated expertise in the thematic areas relevant to Puntland and the Horn of Africa, such as state-building, governance, security, reconciliation, and sustainable development.
• Exceptional analytical and critical appraisal skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Excellent written communication skills in English, with the ability to provide clear, constructive, and professional feedback.
• A proven record of integrity and adherence to strict confidentiality and academic ethics.

• Deliverables:

The consultant will be expected to submit:

1. A comprehensive report for the 2024 papers, including a summary of overall quality and individual review sheets for each paper.
2. A comprehensive report for the 2025 abstracts, including a summary of themes observed and a ranked or assessed list of all abstracts with recommendations.

• PSA’s Commitment to PSEAH

PSA maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEAH). Every consultant, contractor, and employee is required to uphold the highest standards of personal and professional conduct. The successful consultant will be required to:

• Read and understand the PSA PSEAH Policy.

Sign and abide by the attached Code of Conduct as an integral part of the contract.
Any breach of this policy will lead to immediate termination of the contract.

• Duration of the Consultancy:

The contract is effective from 21^th August 2025. The entire assignment, including the submission of all finalized and approved deliverables, must be completed within a strict 28-day period.

• Consultancy Fee:

The fee will be based on the consultant’s qualifications and experience.

• Application Process:

Interested candidates who meet the required qualifications and experience are invited to submit their updated CV with contact details for 3 referees and cover letter to this Email: Procurement @psasomalia.org to be received by 15 August 2025 or deliver hard copy to the HQ office in Bosaso behind UNHCR office.