ABOUT KEPLER:

Since Kepler’s launch in 2013, we are building a model of accessible and quality higher education. We provide a different kind of education – one that combines in-person, online and on-the-job learning in service of a singular goal: decent jobs for young Africans. And we have been successful, with more than 90% of scholars employed within six months of graduating. Kepler, through a partnership with Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), has enrolled more than 1,000 students across our campuses in Kigali and the Kiziba refugee camp in Western Rwanda.

Since 2013, our 80+ staff has served more than 1,000 students to date across two campuses in Rwanda – our flagship campus in Kigali, as well as a second campus in the Kiziba refugee camp in Western Rwanda, where we serve refugee learners. Over 90% of our graduates are employed by six months after their graduation.

About the project

Kepler is now launching Phase 2 of its bold 10-year Master Plan. This phase specifically focuses on the construction of on-campus student housing with a capacity of 900 beds. As a crucial first step toward implementation, comprehensive studies and design work are essential. In this regard, Kepler is seeking end-to-end study and architectural design services from qualified and experienced firms. We are therefore inviting interested and eligible firms to express their interest through this pre-qualification stage.

Basic scope of the studies and design services

Lot #1: Geotechnical investigation

This will include the following main key components:

• Field Investigation
• Laboratory Testing
• Analysis and Reporting

Lot # 2: Detailed designs + EDGE Certification

This will include the following main key components:

• Schematic design (SD);
• Design development (DD)
• Construction documents (CD)
• Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE) Certification (preliminary and final)

Lot # 3: Quantity survey

• Prepare a detailed Bill of Quantities (BoQ) that covers all aspects of the cost estimate, including MEP (Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical)
• Develop a comprehensive cost plan that outlines the budget distribution over different project stages, enabling effective cost monitoring and management
• Propose value engineering solutions to optimize costs while maintaining the intended project quality and function.
• Review of bid documents
• Advising Kepler on Contractor review and selection;

A detailed scope for all the lots will be provided to the shortlisted firms.

Bidders may express interest in one, two, or all three lots. If selected for only one or two lots, collaboration with other firms will be coordinated by Kepler to ensure integration across design, survey, and geotechnical components. Bidders should indicate in their letter of application whether they are interested in all three lots or in a specific one or two.

Documents required

• Application letter for the expression of interest addressed to Kepler;
• Full business registration certificate issued by Rwanda Development Board;
• VAT registration certificate issued by Rwanda Revenue Authority;
• Valid social security contribution clearance certificate issued by Rwanda Social Security Board;
• Valid tax clearance certificate issued by Rwanda Revenue Authority;
• A detailed project portfolio clearly indicating the firm’s scope of responsibility in similar projects. The portfolio should not exceed 5 pages.
• A company profile including the vision, mission, core values, organizational structure, core business model, and an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) statement, etc. The profile should not exceed 7 pages.
• Three (3) good recommendation letters issued by reputable organizations for similar services completed within the past five (5) years; 
• Relevant certifications/accreditations (e.g., ISO, Industry accreditations, etc…..)

Note: All documents must be compiled and collated into a single PDF file.

Evaluation and Selection:

Kepler's Tender Committee will evaluate the expressions of interest/submissions based on relevant experience, compliance with application requirements, and other necessary due diligence.

Further discussions will be held with shortlisted bidders to assess their competence. Following this, an invitation to tender will be issued to the selected bidders.

Request for clarification will be addressed to:

Email: procurement@kepler.org 

Submit your proposal to the following email address:

Email: procurement@kepler.org