The National Research Foundation’s South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (NRF-SAASTA) invites qualified contractors to submit quotations for the construction of a concrete slab and trench at the Albertina Nontsikelelo Sisulu Science Centre in Cofimvaba. This Request for Quotation (RFQ/31/2026/2027) supports critical infrastructure development for science education outreach in the Eastern Cape.
Tender Overview
The appointed service provider will construct a durable concrete slab and associated drainage trench to enhance facility functionality at the science centre. Works must comply with SANS building standards and municipal regulations, ensuring long-term structural integrity for educational programming and community engagement activities.
Scope of Work: Concrete Slab & Trench
The successful bidder will be responsible for the following key deliverables:
Concrete Slab (3m x 3m x 0.25m):
- Excavation of soil to allow the finished slab to sit slightly above ground level
- Installation of a compacted gravel layer to promote drainage and reduce cracking
- Construction of timber formwork to contain and shape the concrete during casting
- Conduit to join the trench line and an access hole in the slab to run cables
Trench (65 metres):
- Excavation between the SAT and the existing borehole
- Installation of a conduit pipe within the trench to house two 6mm PV cables
- A draw wire placed inside the conduit to enable cables to be pulled through during installation
Mandatory Eligibility Requirements
Bidders must meet the following minimum criteria:
- Valid CIDB grading of 1 SL or higher
- Central Supplier Database (CSD) registration with active status
- Valid SARS tax compliance status or TCS PIN
- Completed SBD 1, SBD 4, and SBD 6.1 forms
- Proof of relevant experience in similar civil construction projects
Compulsory Briefing Session Details
Attendance at the mandatory site briefing is essential for bid consideration. The session takes place on Friday, 29 May 2026 at 10:00 at 17 Main Street, Cofimvaba, 5380. Bidders should arrive with identification and appropriate personal protective equipment for potential site inspection components.
Submission Guidelines and Deadlines
- Published: Tuesday, 19 May 2026
- Closing: Friday, 05 June 2026 at 11:00
- Submission Email: quotes1@saasta.nrf.ac.za
- Quotation Validity: 60 days from closing date
- Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered
Related opportunity: Department of Health Ladybrand DCR Refurbishment RFQ
Evaluation and Preference Framework
Proposals undergo two-phase assessment: administrative compliance verification followed by price and preference evaluation using the 80/20 system. Price accounts for 80 points; specific goals including B-BBEE status level contribution contribute 20 points under the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act.
Document Access and Enquiries
Download the complete RFQ specification: SAASTA RFQ-31-2026/2027 Tender Document
For technical or procedural enquiries, contact Yanga Nkenkana at Y.Nkenkana@saasta.nrf.ac.za or 012-392-9395. Submit compliant, competitive quotations before the 05 June deadline to support science education infrastructure development.
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