Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to appoint a qualified and experienced service provider to deliver specialised Sybrin technical development resources. These resources will be tasked with designing, developing, configuring, testing, and deploying enhancements to the Thuthuka Grants Management System (GMS). Additionally, the provider will support internal technical teams through skills transfer, ensuring sustainable long-term operation and support of the system.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Provision of skilled technical resources to implement approved enhancements to the Thuthuka GMS in collaboration with NLC internal resources.
• Design, development, configuration, testing, and deployment of system enhancements aimed at:
• Improving user experience and interface simplification.
• Aligning system functionality with future operational models and roles.
• Enhancing automation and controls, including API-based verifications with third parties and state entities.
• Automating processes across the grant lifecycle, including application, assessment, adjudication, contracting, payments, monitoring, and reporting.
• Supporting offline and mobile application capabilities for rural and low-connectivity environments.
• Implementing role-based access controls, conflict of interest declarations, and segregation of duties.
• Supporting integration with existing NLC systems, including ERP and financial management platforms.
• Providing support and maintenance services over a 36-month period.
• Skills transfer and documentation to ensure internal NLC capacity building.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements encompass:

• Development and configuration of enhancements within the Sybrin Platform, including workflow automation, low-code configuration, and API integrations.
• Implementation of security controls, including secure development practices, role-based access, and data protection aligned with ISO 27001, OWASP, and NIST standards.
• Design and deployment of offline mobile applications with secure data synchronization.
• Integration capabilities with third-party systems such as SARS, DHA, FIC, UIF, GIS, and the NLC ERP system.
• Performance, load, and stress testing to ensure system resilience and scalability.
• Comprehensive documentation covering architecture, configuration, interface specifications, and operational manuals.
• Adherence to NLC’s security policies, standards, and ICT governance frameworks.

Skills Requirements

The bidder must demonstrate the availability of resources with the following qualifications and experience:

• Azure and DevOps Specialist
• AI/UX Specialist (including accessibility considerations for disabled stakeholders)
• Database Administrator (DBA)
• Application Support Engineer / Analyst
• Business Analyst
• Infrastructure and Solution Security Specialist / Cybersecurity Specialist
• Sybrin Software Developers with proven delivery experience
• Project Manager with enterprise solution delivery experience
• Quality Assurance / Tester with system testing expertise

Resources must possess relevant certifications, demonstrated experience in Sybrin platform implementations, and a structured skills transfer approach to ensure sustainability. The bidder must also provide CVs, certifications, and references for all proposed personnel.