OTN Installation & Maintenance Training

This Request for Quotation (RFQ) from the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) seeks a registered and accredited training provider to deliver specialised Optical Transport Network (OTN) training to PRASA Telecoms technicians in the Gauteng Region. Although the RFQ heading refers to the appointment of a service provider for OTN installation, configuration and maintenance, the attached specification and pricing schedule show that the requirement is for training. The programme must give trainees in-depth theoretical knowledge and practical skills in installing, configuring, operating and maintaining OTN systems, with a focus on MPLS-TP technology across modular aggregated nodes and integrated nodes. The scope covers the evolution from SDH/SONET to MPLS-TP, system components (including the TXCare management system, node support modules, central switching modules, interface modules and power supply units), system design and site planning, rack preparation, power and grounding requirements, fibre installation, TXCare software setup and network topology discovery, fault diagnosis and maintenance schedules, equipment replacement, and cybersecurity and access management.

The training must combine classroom theory with hands-on practical sessions using real-world equipment or simulation scenarios. The provider must supply a training manual or learning guide and lunch for trainees. Accreditation is mandatory: the provider must hold SETA accreditation 246666 (performing operational activities on multichannel optical fibre systems) or a vendor-proprietary certification for OTN MPLS-TP training, and proof must be submitted with the bid. Assessment includes a theoretical test with a minimum pass mark of 80%, a practical evaluation carried out on site or in a simulated environment, and a final evaluation by the accredited trainer or an external assessor. Successful participants receive a Certificate of Competence showing the trainee's name, the training institution, topics covered, the accreditation number, and the date of issue. Learning outcomes include understanding OTN components, planning and designing OTN layouts, installing nodes and cabling, configuring networks and remote access, maintaining and troubleshooting systems, integrating OTN with other services, and demonstrating practical skills.

Bidders should note the following. A compulsory briefing takes place on 9 November 2026 at 12:00 (CAT) at the 6th floor boardroom, Shosholoza Meyl Building, Braamfontein. Attendance is a mandatory Stage 1A requirement. The closing date is inconsistently stated as 9 November 2026 on the SBD1 form and 12 November 2026 on the cover page, so bidders should confirm the deadline with the contact person, Khuthadzo Tshikhudo, before the closing time of 10:00 (CAT). Bids must be hand-delivered to the bid box at the Ground Floor, Shosholoza Meyl Junction, Braamfontein. Email and fax submissions are not accepted. Evaluation runs in three stages: compliance, technical/functionality with a 60% minimum threshold (scored on the number of similar completed projects), and price (80 points) and specific goals (20 points) under the 80/20 preference system. Bids must remain valid for 90 working days. The tender is listed as draft, so its details may still change before publication.