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Education Sector Corruption in Ethiopia 105
the construction of educational facilities. In the case of the UCBP, no suggestion
of any such risk was made.
Bypassing of correct procurement procedures—risk: medium. The only suggestions
of such a risk in relation to construction contracts have been
indirect, arising from
• A general perception among some respondents that sound procedures
may exist in theory but can often be bypassed in practice.
• The reported practice of dismissing the necessity for open tendering on
the grounds of remoteness and urgency.
In the case of the construction contracts under the UCBP, no suggestion
of any such risk was made.
Specifications that favor a specific supplier—risk: low. This was not reported
as a perceived risk. If it does exist, it is most likely to be in relation to
specialist features or high-tech equipment rather than to standard aspects
of facilities.
Fraud, falsification of tender documents, with or without associated bribery—
risk: medium. This was not specifically reported as a perceived risk, but
other reports indirectly suggest that unqualified contractors are shortlisted
for, and awarded, some construction contracts.
Collusion among contractors or consultants in bidding—risk: low. This was
not reported as a perceived risk.
Bribery to influence evaluation of tenders—risk: low. Despite the suggestions
of favoritism toward certain contractors, no indication was received that
this extended to specific bribery to influence the evaluation of tenders.
Reports of ambivalent attitudes by consultants and contractors toward the
practice of expressing gratitude to clients do, however, suggest that such
bribery may occur, albeit at a low to moderate level. The relatively tight
controls put in place under the UCBP lead to this overall risk being
assessed as low, even though the main construction contracts had been
awarded by the time the full PACS was introduced into the program.
Bribery or extortion related to the granting of permits, licenses, and authorities
—risk: medium. Survey responses included reference to contractors