To improve learning environment in primary schools
We denounce with righteous indignation and dislike men who we are to beguiled
demoralized by the charms of pleasures that moment, so we blinded desires, that they
indignations.
October, Kathmandu: Nepal Unites and the NGO Federation of Nepal, Kathmandu Branch successfully held an interaction program on the “Role of Civil Society on Religious Harmony” in Buddhanagar, Naya Baneshwor, Kathmandu, Bagmati Province, Nepal.
Forty participants were invited from civil society and religious organizations representing a range of cultures, religions, ethnicities, and genders. Religious leaders committed to spread the message of harmony, peace, unity and solidarity.
To sum up, this interaction program reiterates that interreligious dialogue and mutual understanding are crucial components of a culture of peace and encourages people to acknowledge that the moral imperatives of all religions, convictions, and beliefs demand peace, tolerance, and understanding.
October 21, Biratnagar, Morang: As one of the Community Engagement Programs operated under the Grassroots Movement, Nepal Unites successfully organized a one-day free health camp in Birateshwar Briddha Ashram Sewa Samiti, Ashok Chowk, Biratnagar-8, Morang, Koshi Province, Nepal.
The health camp is one of the community engagement programs carried out by Nepal Unites as part of the grassroots movement, according to Kanchan Kumari Shah, acting president of the Nepal Unites.
Birateshwar Briddha Ashram Sewa Samiti Treasurer Uma Regmi appreciated the organizer and said she was pleased that they were able to obtain the required consultation as well as a health, blood pressure, and sugar check.
Dr. Anjali Mandal, Dr. Shuvam Kumar Agrawal, and health worker Rakesh Kumar Mandal checked and consulted on a variety of conditions in the health camp, including blood pressure, sugar testing, dental and periodontal problems, and general health checkups.
At the old age Ashram, 58 older citizens—25 men and 33 women—went through a general health checkup.
In September 2024, The 4th Annual General Assembly of Nepal Unites was held in Rajbiraj-1, Saptari, Madhesh Province which is located in the eastern part of the Nepal. All of the representatives from various organizations, social youth activists, teachers, and local government representatives who accepted an invitation and attended in the 4th Annual General Assembly of Nepal Unites had been warmly greeted by the organization’s general secretary, Mr. Krishna Prasad Sharma.
At the fourth annual general assembly of Nepal Unites, Mr. Sharma gave a progress report on the programs carried out in the fiscal year 2023–2024. The ideas, proposals, tenacity, leadership, and dedication of this working committee’s members and key figures have all contributed to Nepal Unites’ operations’ success in all of their activities, he said.
Additionally, he claimed that carrying out the organization’s mission, upholding accountability, and maintaining transparency were our primary duties and responsibilities. Shiv Datta Sah, a local government representative, committed to supporting the Nepal Unites initiatives centered around youth leadership, peacebuilding, and other related topics in the Assembly.
In addition, he expressed his appreciation for youth- focused programs and brought attention to the fact that many young people are currently taking drugs. and request that such events be planned on this.
Nepal UNITES Policies
The programs conducted by the organization will be continued and facilitated under the leadership and support of the Provincial Coordinator of Nepal Unites.
The good practice exchange program will be continued in order to share experience among the officials and members of the Nepal Unities Working Committee, provincial coordinators,
active volunteers and help in developing the spirit of mutual brotherhood.
Necessary initiatives will be taken for participation in national and international programs, seminars, meetings and conferences for capacity building of Nepal Unites Working Committee, and members, provincial coordinators, active volunteers.
Nepal Unites Working Committee members and core team will continue the policy of conducting various programs.
Need-based programs in communities and schools will be implemented with priority at local levels and in coordination and cooperation with various organizations.
My stay with the homestay family was wonderful. I felt at ease from the very beginning, thanks to all the kindness and the welcoming atmosphere of home. The family went above and beyond to ensure I was comfortable, and I appreciated how my family included me in daily activities, therefore it made me feel like I was part of the family, not just a guest.
My time at local schools was incredibly enriching, with approachable teachers and principals who created a supportive learning environment. Overall, the School provided a well-rounded educational experience that exceeded my expectations, and I highly recommend it to others. Furthermore, I would like to appreciate Nepal Unites for the whole process, which not only includes translation but also during daily life in Nepal.
Once again thanks for the people here’s generosity and for creating such a positive and memorable experience for me. I would gladly recommend homestay to others looking for a warm and friendly place to stay also thanks Nepal Unites for your help.
Shota Endo Delegation of Youth Exchange Program International Volunteer Taichung YMCA, Taiwan
The Youth Exchange Program was arranged by Nepal Unites in collaboration with the Taichung YMCA in Taiwan from August 11-17, 2024 in the in Amaltari Madhyavarti Community Homestay, Baghkhor Village, Kawasoti Municipality, Nawalparasi East, Gandaki Province. Eleven females and two males from Taichung YMCA in Taiwan traveled to Nepal for ten days.
All the youth delegation from the Taichung YMCA also visited two schools in Nepal, Durga Bhawani Basic School and Shree Majhi Basic School, located in the village, where the students attend to read from extremely low-income and marginalized families. The youth delegation from YMCA provided school services to the students, teaching them through games and giving them educational materials as well. Additionally, it also has community services in the village, with the Tharu, Bote, and Mushar communities serving as its representatives.
The YMCA volunteers performed daily tasks including cooking for homestay families and other household chores like farming. There was also cleaning and sanitation program one day in the community where YMCA volunteers raise awareness about climate change and how plastic affects human health. All the YMCA Volunteers set up the booth with food and cultural knowledge to trade with the locals.
The World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudha Stupa, and Durbar Square, were also visited by youth delegation.
I am Saran Gupta, the youngest social activist of Madhesh Pradesh, and I am deeply honored to be recognized with international accolades such as the Global Youth Leadership Award in Bangkok, Thailand , and the Youngest Professionals of the Year 2022 award in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Additionally, I have been honored as a Hero of Madhesh. My journey began at the tender age of 11, starting as a child rights activist and gradually expanding my efforts to serve the broader community. I lead an organization named Improving Birgunj, which has been a force for positive change for nearly seven years. During the Covid-19 pandemic, our efforts stood out, achieving what even seasoned politicians could not. It is with immense pride and gratitude that I continue this journey of service and dedication.
The State of Nepal and the Role of Youth
Nepal, a nation rich in culture and history, has faced numerous challenges over the years, ranging from political instability to natural disasters. The recent Covid-19 pandemic further exposed the vulnerabilities within our social and healthcare systems. In such trying times, the role of youth in steering the country towards a better future has never been more critical.
The youth of Nepal are not merely spectators but active participants in shaping the nation’s destiny. With over 40% of the population under the age of 25, the potential for youth-led change is immense. Young leaders like myself are examples of how dedication, passion, and a sense of responsibility can bring about significant transformation.
Challenges Faced by Nepali Youth
Unemployment and Underemployment: One of the most pressing issues is the high rate of unemployment and underemployment among the youth. Many young people, despite having academic qualifications, struggle to find jobs that match their skills and aspirations. This often leads to brain drain, with many seeking opportunities abroad.
Educational Disparities: While access to education has improved, there are still significant disparities in the quality of education received in urban versus rural areas. Many young people in rural Nepal do not have access to the same resources and opportunities as their urban counterparts.
Political Instability: Frequent changes in government and political unrest have created an environment of uncertainty. This instability affects every aspect of life, from economic development to social progress, making it difficult for young people to plan for their futures.
Social Issues: Issues such as child marriage, gender inequality, and caste-based discrimination still persist in various parts of the country. These social issues hinder the progress of young people, especially girls and those from marginalized communities.
The Path Forward: Empowering the Youth
Despite these challenges, the resilience and determination of Nepali youth offer a beacon of hope. Organizations like Improving Birgunj, under my leadership, are crucial in driving change at the grassroots level. Here are some ways to further empower the youth of Nepal:
Enhancing Education and Skills Training: Investing in quality education and vocational training programs can equip young people with the skills they need to succeed. This includes not only academic knowledge but also practical skills that are in demand in the job market.
Creating Job Opportunities: Encouraging entrepreneurship and supporting small businesses can create job opportunities for young people. Additionally, fostering partnerships between the private sector and educational institutions can help bridge the gap between education and employment.
Promoting Civic Engagement: Encouraging young people to participate in the political process and community service can foster a sense of responsibility and leadership. This includes creating platforms for youth voices to be heard in policymaking and governance.
Addressing Social Issues: Implementing policies and programs that promote gender equality, eliminate discrimination, and protect the rights of all citizens can create a more inclusive society. Education and awareness campaigns can also play a crucial role in changing societal attitudes and norms.
Conclusion
The future of Nepal lies in the hands of its youth. Leaders like myself exemplify the power of young people to drive meaningful change. By addressing the challenges we face and empowering us with the tools and opportunities we need, we can build a brighter and more prosperous Nepal. The voice of the youth is not just a call for change; it is a call for action, unity, and progress. Together, we can create a nation where every young person has the chance to thrive and contribute to a better tomorrow. We salute the dedication of all the young people working tirelessly for a better Nepal.
On International Youth Day 2014, Gupta expressed his opinions as part of the “Your Voice, Our Concern” social media campaign.
In July 2024, Rajbiraj:Speech Competition held in the Shree Rajdevi Thakodevi Jogendra Bhagat Secondary School, Rajbiraj-1, Saptari, Madhesh Province, as part of Nepal Unites’ School Relation Tour Program on “Students’ Role in Promoting Social Harmony.”
The school’s the headteacher, Dinesh Prasad Yadav, said that these extracurricular activities will be highly helpful to the student’s overall growth as well as their ability to talk with confidence. Expressing gratitude to the organizing group, he asked that these events be held on a regular basis.
The contestants addressed arguments for equal involvement for women in social justice initiatives, religious tolerance being upheld by all, and ways to improve social harmony through speech competitions. Twelve youngsters from grades 8 through 10 competed in the program, and Ritika Khatiwada won first place. Soni Sah came in second, Khushbu Sah came in third, and Khushbu Yadav came in fourth.
Twelve competitors competed, and Nepal Unites awarded participation certificates to the remaining competitors as an expression of encouragement. Nepal Unites seeks to improve students’ leadership, responsibility, and skill sets through extracurricular activities. This speech competition inspired more than 100 students.
June 5, 2024, A Plantation and Sanitation Program was held on World Environment Day by Nepal Unites as part of the School Relation Tour Program at the Global English Boarding School, Rajbiraj-7, Saptari, Madhesh Province, which is located in the Eastern Part of Nepal.
This program intended to increase student responsibility for environmental issues and the Plastic Free School movement.
The Nepal Unites team engaged with the students regarding climate change and plastic pollution in Nepal. And also discussed the effects of plastic on rivers, mountainous areas, roads, temples, and daily life. Along with learning about workable ways to reduce plastic pollution, the students were motivated to take proactive measures to safeguard their environment.
Students are encouraged to take responsibility for environmental problems and express their commitment to engage in the school’s sanitation program.
“It is our responsibility to protect and preserve the sustainability of the environment,” says Safalta Bhujel, a student at this school.
In total, over 80 students took part in the program with enthusiastic participation.
In May, Nepal Unites visited four private and government schools in Rajbiraj, Saptari, Madhesh Province as part of the School Relation Tour Program to engage with the students as a new generation in the Nepal Unites movement and Peace Club.
Nepal Unites promotes the establishment of peace clubs in villages, colleges, and high schools. Through these clubs, students can become involved in extracurricular activities at their school that are centered on youth leadership and peace.
“Nepal Unites Peace Club will organise extracurricular events that will provide us with much-needed refreshment. We also develop skills for leadership through such activities.” -Karya Yadav, Student, Nobel Academy, Rajbiraj-7, Saptari, Madhesh Province.
“It is a very nice program for all of the students and it helps to develop our skills and leadership. This is needed to have a Peace Club in the school and organize some extracurricular activities.” -Ram Narayan Yadav/ Grade 10 /Student/Global English Boarding School, Rajbiraj- 7, Saptari, Madhesh Province.
Nepal Unites explores the creative ways of bringing hope, peace, interfaith tolerance engagement’s concepts among the children and youth by establishing the NU Peace Club and contributes to build the youth and child that serve as an inspiration for community and nation in the days to come. Nepal Unites Peace Club can help the students in coming days to do some extracurricular activities to grow their skills and leadership.
153 young students signed a pledge in May 2024 to work for peacebuilding, nonviolence, youth leadership, and reconciliation with the Nepal UNITES Movement.
Students have been very delighted to participate in extracurricular activities and have shown a desire to continue with them, according to Anisha Khatri of Nobel Academy, Rajbiraj-7, Saptari, Madhesh Province, who spoke about the Peace Club and School Relation Tour Program.
In May, four peace clubs were established, and over two thousand students were introduced to the Nepal Unites Movements.
In May, The head of Taichung Young Men’s Christian Association’s Executive of Resources Integration-Youth Department, Sandrine Lin, and Mohammad Ayatulla Rahaman, National Director of Nepal Unites, met via Zoom to discuss progress about the Youth Exchange Programme, which is scheduled to run from August 17 to 27, 2024. The Nepal Unites team will take a group of 15 to 20 young people who are visiting Nepal to the municipality of Kawasoti, which is located in the Nawalpur District of the Gandaki Province.
During their time in the community, the participants will spend the day immersed in the LESS Principles, staying at the Amaltari Madhyawarti Community Homestay Gaun.
L- Live, listen, and learn from the people
E- Eat what ordinary people have for regular meals (no special menu)
S – Share the life stories; the participants can also share their stories with their host families
S – Simple life
Activities like school wall painting and student stationery distribution will be carried out by the team as community and school services.
Youth Initiative, Pioneer Youth Organization, Nepal Unites, and Youth Opportunities have jointly organized an incredibly insightful International Webinar on the theme of “Empowering Youth For Climate Justice” on the 27th of April 2024.
This webinar served as a platform for over 60 participants to join both physically and virtually, creating a dynamic and engaging environment. We were honored to have prominent youth activists from Nepal, including Anjali Sai Chalise, Prajwol Bikram Rana, Ramesh Gautam, Binisha Amatya, as well as youth activists from Morocco, such as Rania Raghib, Mahfouda Kentaou, and Soukaine Zouine. Additionally, we were privileged to have a speaker from Egypt Aya Zaidne, National Climate Change and Health Facilitator. The session was facilitated by secretary of Youth Initiative namely Susmita Adhikari (Yadav), and Foreign and Administrative head of Youth Pioneer Organization based in Morocco namely Youseff Elmoussaoui.
The participants focused on various aspects, including the geographical context of climate issues, the crucial role of youth in tackling climate challenges, and strategies for moving forward. The discussions also encompassed vital agendas related to climate justice and the urgent need for action. The youth have shown their commitment to addressing climate change and working towards a sustainable future.
Nepal Unites Executive Committee Board and Advisory Board met with the Founder of Global Unites Prashan De Visser on 25th of April 2024. The National Director of Nepal Unites called to give introduction everyone. Ms. Shobhana Mishra and Mr. Pitambar Aryal were representatives from Advisory Boards of Nepal Unites and Some of them represented from the Nepal Unites Committee. Basically, there was deep discussion on Financially sustainable movement, Strategic Direction, Accountability and Transparency, Youth Engagement, Core Values, and Grassroots Movements.
Biratnagar: Nepal Unites organized the Dental Screening and Consultation Health Camp in the SOMS College Biratnagar, Traffic Chowk, Biratnagar, Koshi Province, Nepal on 12th of April 2024 which is located in the eastern part of Nepal.
There were 2 consultant physicians Dr. Shekhar KumarMandal, Dr. Diwakar Kumar Mandal and some health workers providing charitable services to the people. There were 55 people directly benefited from the camp according to Kanchan Kumari Sah, Executive Committee Member of Nepal Unites.
“Dental Screening and Consultation Health Camp was so fruitful for everyone. I am very excited to participate and serve in such programs of Nepal UNITES and also willing to be a part in upcoming days.” – Dr. Shekhar Kumar Mandal Bachelor of Dental Surgery
The clients were treated for problems related to teeth, gums, the oral cavity and oral health issues. Local health, community and school staff are involved and oral health education sessions were also provided for the students and community people. Most of the school students lack basic oral health awareness. This is one of the causes for most prevalent dental problems, such as dental caries and rotated teeth, protrusion, Dr. Shekhar said.
The Dental Screening and Consultation Health Camp is a Community Engagement Program which has provided the dental treatment services, free check-up and counseling service. The main aim of the program was to educate the community people and students in regards to dental hygiene and diseases.
Biratnagar: Nepal Unites organized a Community Engagement Program under the Grassroots Movement. Nepal Unites celebrated the International Women’s Day organizing a one day workshop on Women Empowerment under the theme of ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress’ in Sunwarshi-9, Morang, Koshi Province on 8th of March which is located in the eastern part of Nepal.
There is a gathering of women that empowers each other with enriching activities targeted to a woman’s personal and professional development, women empowerment, underlying locals issue, legal right discussion.
Kanchan Kumari Sah facilitated this workshop where local leaders and ward representatives appreciated and expressed that this type of workshop should be done in the community. City Deputy Mayor Mira Devi Das Kevarat encouraged all the women to participate in such activities.
Kumari Munu Singh has shared that She is excited to engage with local people in the community through the Community Engagement Program, a project of Nepal Unites. There were 40 participants invited from the marginalized community from different ethnicities and backgrounds, some of them were also worker, farmers and others.
The 16th edition of the World Social Forum (WSF) unfolded in Kathmandu, Nepal, from February 15-19, 2024, under the inspiring theme “Another World is Possible.” The event commenced with a Solidarity March, symbolizing the convergence of voices advocating for social harmony, Free Palestine, global peace, equality, and an end to discrimination. With thousands of participants, the rally became a powerful expression of unity, featuring banners with slogans that echoed the aspirations of various national and international organizations spanning diverse sectors and rights. Representatives from various sectors including climate change activists, workers, farmers, trade unions, women’s organizations, youth, LGBTQI groups, indigenous communities, ethnic organizations, civil society groups, and social movements participated in the five-day event.
Intercontinental Youth Forum: Shaping the Future
Running concurrently with the WSF, the Intercontinental Youth Forum (IYF) from February 17-19, 2024, gathered youth rights activists from India, South Africa, Nepal, America, Colombia, Fiji, France, and Palestine. Organized by Youth Advocacy Nepal in collaboration with over 60 organizations, the forum hosted ten sessions covering topics such as education, peace, inequality, climate justice, feminism, migration, and youth participation. Over 5000 youth actively participated, exchanging ideas and perspectives that contributed to the overarching theme of building a better world.
Nepal Unites: Bridging Divides for Peace
Nepal Unites, a prominent participant in the WSF, showcased its initiatives at a dedicated booth, attracting thousands of representatives eager to learn about its work with youth on peace, youth leadership, non-violence, conflict transformation, and grassroots movements. Notably, key speakers, including representative from Nepal Unites, the National Director, Mohammad Ayatulla Rahaman addressed critical issues such as women’s empowerment under the theme “Empowering Perspective” and the youth organizational perspective under the theme, “Harmony in Diversity,” emphasizing the organization’s commitment to unity, mutual understanding, peace, and social harmony.
A Global Gathering of Changemakers
The WSF served as a meaningful convergence of global civil society members, NGOs, INGOs, and individuals, all dedicated to fostering dialogue and sharing experiences. This was the good platform for networking along with the NGO’s and INGO’s. More than 50,000 participants from over 1400 organizations across 92 countries marked their attendance, both virtually and in person. The event’s success lies in its ability to bring together diverse voices committed to creating a peaceful world and promoting global solidarity, all within one platform.
The Power of Collective Action
As the WSF concluded on February 19, the event left an indelible mark with 60 declarations from organizations worldwide. These declarations pledged collaboration towards realizing another, fairer, and more just world. The event highlighted the power of collective action and the necessity of ongoing efforts to foster a better world that embraces diversity, equity, peace, and justice for all.
In reflection, the 16th World Social Forum in Kathmandu not only provided a platform for dialogue and collaboration but also ignited a collective spirit among global leaders to strive for a world where another, more inclusive future is not only possible but actively pursued.
Nepalgunj 21 Jan 2024;Nepal Unites organized an Interaction Program with Religious Leaders on Peace, Harmony and Religious Tolerance in Nepalgunj, Banke, Lumbini Province where the Religious Leaders were invited from Hindu, Islam and Buddhism Faith.
Hindu Religious Leader, Mahanta Chandranath Yogi, head of Bageshwori Temple , said that all religions are human religions and everyone should maintain unity for peace. He said that there is a need for peace not only in religion but in all areas.
Similarly, Muslim Religious Leader Maulana Abdul Jabbar Manjari said that people should broaden their thinking to maintain peace. “Take a look at the people of all the communities in the world, everyone’s blood is red,” said Maulana Manjari, “that’s why it is necessary to change the mindset to build a peaceful society.” Because the youth power in the society can establish lasting peace if they want, one can do something to protect the rights of others.
Buddhist Religious Leader, Gunj Bahadur Lama said that since everyone’s religion is the same, one should respect each other. Lama said that the leaders of all religions should teach the youth to respect each other.
There were 30 participants from different faith, culture and gender. It has been emphasized in the interaction that all the concerned bodies of the society should have an active role for peace, harmony and religious tolerance. This event has been organized on the occasion of World Religion Day in collaboration with United Religions Initiative, Nepal Youth Council, Genteel Society Nepal and Sahayatri Nepal.
On November 4, 2023/Rajbiraj: Community Visioning Summit is organized by Nepal Unites in collaboration with The Goldin Institute in Rajbiraj-1, Saptari, Madhesh Province.
During the opening time, started with the interfaith prayers led by Islamic Scholar Mohammad Afaroj Alam and Santosh Kumar Yadav led the Hindu prayer. Mohammad Ayatulla Rahaman led the session on Community conversation and community asset map then made the 4 groups for the group work on Social Issues and drawing the Community Asset Map.
All the groups, they presented with all and one of participant Indra Kumari Yadav shared about a story which is happening in the community is Dowry System and Child Marriage. These issues are burning in the community. Due to child marriage, there are lots of women are suffering from reproductive health issues, women violence, pressure of work load, Indra said.
Mr. Santosh Kumar Yadav appreciated the opportunity to organize this type of activities in the ground community which is a best platform to learn and share everyone’s own feelings and experiences.
The participants shared about the community and also discussed how we can build on them to achieve even bigger goals, finding issues and solutions with the community asset map.
20 participants were invited in this summit from different faith, backgrounds and age groups where 12 participants were female and among the 8 male participants two child participants were male.
The participants discussed on the top five social issues, pointed out the way for solutions, Community Asset Map, and Nonviolent Communication (NVC).
A Reflection on the Interfaith Youth Peacebuilding Activities from India, Thailand and Indonesia Assemblies
It was such a great privilege and honor to be part of the Interfaith Cooperation Forum (ICF) of the Asia and Pacific Alliance of YMCAs’ ‘Program Committee. I was invited to this year’s two great events: the APAY Assembly in Chennai, India, and the Peace Conference in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Both programs were motivated by the passion to seek to contribute to the efforts of peacebuilding in the region of Asia, particularly in conflicted areas.
The Asia Pacific Alliance of YMCAs (APAY) 5th Youth Assembly was held at the YMCA International Youth Center on September 13-15, 2023. This was followed by the 21st General Assembly of the APAY that took place from September 15 September 20 at the Hyatt Regency in Chennai India. The theme of the assembly was “Journeying Together as a Resilient Community: Transforming Lives Through Vision 2030.” The 21st General Assembly of the APAY offers a perfect atmosphere for insightful discussions on integrating and enacting Vision 2030 across different grassroots communities in the Asia Pacific region through our actions to bring the vision to existence. I thought of how important it is for youth leadership roles, for young people who are committed to confronting these global issues collectively. The youth assembly offers youths an environment for fostering dialogue, as well as chances to promote solidarity among young people from various ethnic and social backgrounds.
From India, some of the youth participants proceeded to Chiang Mai, Thailand for the Peace Conference which was held on Sept. 27-30, 2023 at the YMCA International Hotel in Chiang Mai. The theme of the Peace Conference was “Towards an Empowered Asian Interfaith Youth Network for Peacebuilding.” ICF invited each ICF alumni country organization to set up a booth to showcase their initiatives and projects. My organization, the Nepal Unites Team put up our booth where peacebuilders from other countries came to explore how we are working peacebuilding activities and I also learned from their presented engagements. Since the majority of the participants were ICF alumni, we discussed issues that threaten Asia’s peace and harmony. As leader of the youth movement, I learned how to elevate our advocacy and work while collaborating with other organizations to promote peace at the national and regional levels. The youths in both the India assembly and Thailand Peace conference events released a collective statement respectively outlining their vision for Asia’s transformation of conflict and promotion of peace.
While I was in Chiang Mai, Thailand, attending the Peace Conference organized by the Interfaith Cooperation Forum and Asia and Pacific Alliance of YMCAs, I received an invitation letter from the Asian Muslim Action Network (AMAN). AMAN invited me to be one of the speakers during the International Conference and Assembly that was to be held in Banda Aceh, Indonesia. The International Conference and AMAN Assembly was held last October 14-17, 2023 at the Ali Hasyimi Auditorium, UIN Ar- Raniry, Banda Aceh Indonesia on the theme “Religious Inclusion and Peacebuilding in the World: The Perspectives of Muslims.” Around 400 delegates from 21 different countries are in attendance. Comparing it with the previous assemblies, there were more women representatives this year. The four-day agenda addressed religious inclusion as a significant global task for all communities. I was one of the speakers on the topic “Reinventing Nonviolent Civil Resistance: Youth Peace Movement and Technology”. The two nonviolent civil rights activists Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. were also mentioned, along with how they were able to advance civil rights without engaging in any violent actions. In my presentation I spoke on the power of nonviolence, how it coexists with violent and nonviolent protest in the context of Nepal, the use of technology in advancing peacebuilding. I also highlight the contribution of the Global Unites as a Youth Peace Movement and how it is working for peace and reconciliation.
What was highlighted in all these conferences and assemblies I have attended from India, Thailand, and Indonesia is a teaching of respect and non-discrimination of people regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, and religion. Norms such as respect, appreciation, and solidarity among different cultures and religions can contribute to a more peaceful world, and assisting one another in times of need can strengthen ties within communities. Building peace is like picking up small pieces of things that we build collectively to make it whole.
On June 12, 2023/ Kathmandu: Nepal Unites organized poetry competition on the occasion of World Day Against Child Labour in the Nepal Yubak Secondary School, Paknajol, Kathmandu.
The students from grade 6 to 10 were invited to participate in the poetry competition. There were 4 students from each grade.
There were 20 competitor students in which 10 were male and 10 were female students.
In the poetry competition the theme was ‘Social Justice for All. End Child Labour!’
The students have mentioned in their poem about child exploitation, child rights, street child, child labor.
At the end of the program National Director of Nepal Unites Mr. Mohammad Ayatulla Rahaman expressed his thoughts on the students’ poems that were not simple words. There are words included in everyone’s poem which open the sense of every person.
And Rahaman appreciated all the school’s staff, evaluation team and the students for making the program meaningful and fruitful.
On May 23, 2023: Nepal Unites organized an Orientation Program on Cyber Crime in Madhuwan Municipality, Bardiya, Lumbini Province. The School Management Committee Members and the School’s Teachers have been invited in the orientation program.
There have been discussions on Cyber Crime, Cyber Criminal, Cyber bullying, Cyber Security, Cyber Law, and Types of Cyber Crimes in the orientation program.
A student Sarita Thapa, she is reading in grade 8 and Thapa shared her thoughts after the orientation that should be aware during the using of social media such as Facebook, or some others apps otherwise cyber bulling or cyber sexual abuse might happen in our life, and she is willing to share her learning with her friends.
On April 27, 2023, Rajbiraj: A one-day free health camp was conducted at Chanaura village in Rajbiraj, Saptari, Madhesh Province which is located in the eastern part of Nepal. Marginalized people have taken benefit from the health camp organized by Nepal Unitesin collaboration with the Fatima Medical Hall Rajbiraj.
There were 6 children, 10 men and 36 women who benefited in the health camp.
The Health camp was organized with the aim of providing free health services, general health checkups to community people who are living under the lack of health awareness.
“The School of Peace aims at building a community of youths who will be enabled to commit themselves to promote peace and harmony in their respective communities.”
After a week of zoom classes and self-learning, the Interfaith Cooperation Forum (ICF), together with its collaborator, the Nepal Unites, was happy to welcome the School of Peace (SoP) participants at Bhaktapur Guesthouse in Bhaktapur, Nepal on Monday the 30th of January. Fourteen participants from Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam arrived to spend the next 50 days together. The following day, the in-person SoP officially began with an Opening Ritual, including words of welcome from the owner of Bhaktapur Guesthouse, where the group will reside until the 25th of February. On the 25th the group will embark to experience a community immersion and move to the second venue at Ratna Giri Resort on March 1, where they will stay until the end of the in-person program on March 20th.
The participants learned about and discussed a range of different topics. In the beginning, the participants went through exercises in learning more about themselves, who are they, what they value, what makes them who they are, etc. This was done through the sharing of “Life Stories” that ICF Staff Baidido Saganding facilitated. It is important for the participants, as young peacebuilders, to know who they are and what they stand for before learning about others.
An important aspect of the SoP is the exploration of the major Asian religions and indigenous spirituality. Some religions and spiritualities were not familiar to some participants and they learned about these for the first time. Other religions or spiritualities were more familiar, especially to the participants who are adherents of such religions and spiritualities. But even then, their understanding of these religions was deepened. The different religions and spiritualities were covered either by in-house speakers like ICF Coordinator Muriel Orevillo-Montenegro on Judeo-Christian traditions or by visiting places of worship such as the White Monastery for a Dhamma talk. Beyond Judaism, Christianity, and Buddhism, the participants also got the chance to learn more about Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, Baha’i Faith, and Indigenous Spiritualties.
In addition to gaining knowledge about different religions and spiritualities, the SoP in Nepal already provided young peacebuilders with information on how to analyze a conflict and comprehend the peacebuilding frameworks from Galtung and Lederach. Furthermore, the SoP also focused on Human Rights, Children’s Rights, and Women’s Rights by exploring the UN Declarations and Conventions connected to these topics. A range of activities challenged the participants to recognize the situations in their countries and communities. Feminist theory and Ethics were introduced to provide the participants a lens for understanding the work for gender justice, the intersectionality of identities, including LGBTQI, and the connection of gender issues with the plunder of Mother Earth.
Another important issue that was discussed during the SoP was the Climate Crisis. Considering that all the participants come from countries that are highly affected by the consequences of climate change, this topic was much awaited by the participants.
SoP has four more weeks to go and there are many more topics to be covered and studied. ICF is looking forward to this upcoming time to spend learning together in Nepal.
On Monday 23rd of January, ICF started the 1st School of Peace for the project cycle since the beginning of the pandemic. The SoP kicked off virtually with the 3-days of three-hour zoom sessions accompanied by a google classroom for self-learning. 14 participants from 9 different countries joined the SoP 2023. Due to some difficulties with connections, unfortunately, not all of them could fully attend the zoom meetings.
During the 1st zoom meeting, the participants got the chance to shortly introduce themselves and also get to know the ICF staff and the ICF Alumni in Nepal. These Alumni have formed the Nepal Unites, and they will assist during the in-person SoP in Nepal. The ICF Coordinator, Muriel Orevillo-Montenegro, introduced the origin of the YMCA, and its spread to Asia, leading to the formation of APAY. She also shared the beginnings of ICF and traced back its roots to the concepts formulated in Parapat, Indonesia in 2003. Afterwards, the participants shared their prepared country conflict and analysis. Due to weak internet connections, some presentations were saved for the in-person meeting in Nepal.
On the 2nd zoom, Tuesday the 24th of January, the ICF Staff Annika Denkmann, introduced Conflict & Conflict Analysis. The participants identified what is conflict, why it happens, and why conflict analysis is an important aspect of peacebuilding. Finally, different tools to analyze a conflict were discussed. The participants were given the assignment to be accomplished by the 1st of February, to be discussed in person in Nepal. During the 3rd and last zoom, ICF invited an external resource person. Cesar Villanueva who is the director of the Pax Christi Institute in Bacolod, Philippines. He is also a lecturer in Conflict Transformation and Peace Futures. He talked about the Peacebuilding Frameworks according to John Paul Lederach and Johan Galtung. He started his presentation by differentiating terminologies used among peace workers and went into the introduction of the peacebuilding frameworks. Being a student of Galtung, he focused on Galtung’s transcend model and introduced Lederach through a video in which Emma Leslie explains Lederach’s expanded Peace Framework.
After three days of zoom ICF and Nepal Unites are excited to welcome the participants in Nepal in-person on the 30th of January to dive into the 50-Day program.
The Interfaith Cooperation Forum (ICF) funded Nepal Unites to hold a two-day workshop on Human Rights and Nonviolent Communication (NVC) in Old Baneshwor, Kathmandu, Nepal on November 29-30, 2022. Nepal Unites is one of the chapters of Global Unites, a youth organization with chapters in 13 countries. The workshop facilitators are Mohammad Ayatulla Rahaman on Human Rights, Mohammad Jiyaul Rahaman, and Rajan Bhandari on Nonviolent Communications. They are currently the active leaders of the Nepal Unites team and they all are also ICF alumni, ICF is a project of the Asia and Pacific Alliance of YMCAs (APAY).
The opening session was led by Jeevan Bhandari who invited everyone to participate. The Nepali National Anthem was played following the introduction. Included in the opening ritual was the water poured on the flower pot by the ICF staff Dr. Muriel Orevillo-Montenegro, Ms. Baidido Manalasal Saganding and Ms. Annika Denkmann which symbolizes protecting the earth and the environment. The president of Nepal Unites, Mohammad Jiyaul Rahaman, gave a warm welcome to the participants and expressed gratitude for their participation in the movement. Mohammad Ayatulla Rahaman, the national director of Nepal Unites, spoke about the Interfaith Cooperation Forum (ICF) working efforts in the Asian regions and he gave a brief introduction of Nepal Unites movement. Rajan Bhandari, the program coordinator of Nepal Unites, created a positive atmosphere by asking the participants to put down their expectations before dividing them into three groups and giving each group essential tasks to do during the workshop. Mr. Bhandari created a positive atmosphere by asking the participants to put down their expectations before dividing them into three groups and assigning important tasks to do during the workshop.
The session started with the topic of Human Rights which was facilitated by Mohammad Ayatulla Rahaman. He began by requesting the participants to write their thoughts on Human Rights. The video on the 30 articles of UDHR was shown to enhance understanding of the topic. Among the important points that were discussed were the definitions of HR, core values, characteristics, generation of HR, and the three dimensions of HR. The facilitator asked three participants—one from the PWD group, one from the LGBTQIA+ community, and one from the Musahar Community in Nepal—to share their personal experiences in the fight for their rights. The facilitator then divided the participants into four groups and asked each group to identify one human right concern specific to Nepal. The following topics were brought up for discussion: Prevalence of Discrimination, Child Rights and Education, Death in Custody, Geographical Discrimination, and Collective Rights. The participants discussed how to resolve these problems through individual initiatives, social campaigns, public awareness campaigns, and the implementation of government policies in Nepal. This session was ended by requesting the participants to write their own slogan which was posted on Nepal Unites official social media account. Some of their statements are:
“Minorities and Indigenous communities deserve an equitable and just society free of discrimination.” – Sandeep Sada
“As I will be a future Engineer; I will not appoint any child as a labor to protect the child’s right.”
-Mahtab Alam Khan
“The unnoticed voice of one human is the ignorance of multitude alike.”- SunRose Maskey
“Humanity proves your identity as a human, not your biological appearance.” – Sujina Dhoju
The next session topic was about the Nonviolent Communication. Mohammad Jiyaul Rahaman started the session with the introduction of Nonviolent Communication (NVC) and he also shared about the history and purpose of NVC by playing the short video. Rajan Bhandari shared the basic principle of NVC. The four key elements of NVC were deliberately introduced by both facilitators.
The two-day workshop had succeeded meaningfully. Everyone is engaged in meaningful and active participation. One participant Yamu B.C. commented that this type of workshop is needed everywhere, especially in the school and community. The feedback provided by the workshop participants was highly valued.
The workshop participants’ feedback was greatly acknowledged. After getting the information about Human Rights and Nonviolent Communication, a participant named Dipendra Basnet appreciated Nepal Unites for providing this platform to learn more on these topics saying that NVC is totally new topic and body of knowledge.
The workshop was attended by 7 females and 7 males and 2 participants from LGBTQIA+ groups who were selected from online applications. The participants had been selected based on their responses to the application’s questions as well as their gender balance. Anubhuti Bhattarai, the communication coordinator of Nepal Unites, led the closing session. She thanked everyone for their meaningful and active involvement and expressed her hope to the participants that they would use what they had learned. The Interfaith Cooperation Forum (ICF) Team presented the participants with certificates of participation at the conclusion of the two-day workshop.
On 22 October 2022, Nepal Unites organized a one-day workshop on “Personal Hygiene and Sanitation” with the ground-level community people in Rajbiraj-01, Sapatari, Madhesh Province which is in the eastern region of Nepal. A small grant was provided for this community engagement program by the Kowloon Union Church based in Hong Kong. Dumari Health Post In-charge, Mr. Amar Anand Yadav and C.ANM Ms. Rinku Mishra served as the main facilitators in this workshop. The facilitators led sessions on Personal and Menstrual Hygiene, and Food-Borne Infections, Diarrheal Diseases and other communicable diseases.
A woman participant namely Sabnam Khatun appreciated the workshop’s organizer for holding an open conversation about personal hygiene, saying; “this really gave us a way to make a well-being life.” Another woman, Apsara Khatun also shared her experience with Muslim women who previously felt uncomfortable discussing menstrual hygiene or any other aspect of personal health. However, this type of workshop empowered the community’s women to speak out and be aware of everything, she said.
A featured guest in the workshop, Md. Doaman a local leader shared about self-care and encouraged everyone to put what they had learned to use in their daily life so that they may live a healthier life going forward, especially this time that dengue is spreading like a pandemic in Nepal. Given that mothers are their children’s first teachers, the community needs a program of this kind for women.
There were 40 women and 5 men invited to this workshop from Dumari, Rahamatpur, and Chanaura villages.
On July 22–23, 2022, Nepal Unites, a chapter of Global Unites, a youth organization active in 13 countries, held a two-day workshop on social media handling. The present context has had a lot of detrimental effects on the use of social media, and many individuals have fallen victim to scammers, fraudsters, and other con artists. The team believed that the message should be delivered timely to reach out to young people to spread awareness with the message on how to use social media appropriately. The Nepal Unites thought that this was a need of the time. With the support of Global Unites, the main facilitator, Mr. Danu Innasithamby, (https://www.facebook.com/DanuInnasithamby) a media personality based in Sri Lanka, was recommended.
The two-day workshop was indeed a success. Everyone is welcome to attend the session and engage in meaningful and active participation. Anubhuti Bhattarai, a representative of Nepal Unites, oversaw participant registration on the first day of the workshop. The national anthem was played to kick off the event. In his introductory remarks, Mohammad Jiyaul Rahaman, the President of Nepal Unites, welcomed each and every participant. Mohammad Ayatulla Rahaman, the National Director, provided information on Nepal Unites and Global Unites, as well as how to get involved in the organization. He also highlighted how many countries the Unites movement is active in. Rajan Bhandari, the Nepal Unites Program Coordinator, introduced the facilitator, the guest visitors, and the participants.
The speakers and facilitators were highly engaging and provided information for the participants. As a representative of the Nepal Police, Central Cyber Bureau, Bhotahity, Kathmandu, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Pradin Tamrakar led discussions on cybercrime, cyber issues, cyber security, cyberbullying, current trends, and cyber legislation in Nepal. Mr. Danu provided instruction on how to utilize social media for local advocacy as well as to promote local customs, culture, and products on the global market. He demonstrates the power of social media in changing systems and mobilizing people even in the absence of funding. He also shared how the GOTAGOGAMA (GGG) campaign, which is the country’s largest brand, utilizes social media. He went into further detail throughout the discussion on the possibilities for peacebuilding and the new spaces that social media can help people connect, coordinate, and mobilize around peace. The presentation by Dr. Gopal Dhakal was important for understanding how social media impacts a person’s mental health. The Nepal Unites team also recognized Dr. Gopal Dhakal, a psychologist, for his invaluable commitment to community peace and well-being through the Mental Health Initiation in Nepal.
The workshop participants’ feedback was greatly acknowledged. After learning about the fraud email lottery and other cyber concerns, participant Jeevan Bhandari gave his thoughts. He also provided statistics on various social media users to raise awareness of this kind of problem. On social media, Nanu Maharjan also expressed how the lockdown’s flashbacks made her feel. According to Maharjan, many users had psychological issues as a result of their increased usage of social media, and there is lengthy material that is unattractive to the users.
The workshop was attended by 10 females and 14 males who were selected from online applications. The participants had been selected based on their responses to the questions on the application and also their geographical proximity. Mr. Sagar Panday a “Life Skills Coach” was invited as an observer in a two day workshop. At the end the participants received their successfully participation certificates from the main facilitator and observer.
21st September 2021, Duduwa(Banke) / International Day of Peace has been celebrated in Duduwa village of Banke which is located in Lumbini Province mid-western part of Nepal. On the occasion of International Day of Peace celebrated by ‘lightening the lamp’(Deep Prajwalan) and Panchmukhi Shiva Temple sanitation program jointly organized by Nepal Unites, Nepal Youth Council Lumbini, Genteel Society Nepal, and United Religions Initiative at Rapti Bridge in Duduwa rural municipality ward no. 4 of Banke District.
The chief guest of the program, ward Chairperson Bhandari Lal Yadav, expressed the need to peace in the world and the need to clean the environment because we all human beings are living on the earth to protect and find peace in nature said Bandari.
Gopal Prasad Sharma, in charge of the Area Police Office, Kamdi, said that peace of mind should be maintained first and all people have a responsibility to make and create an environment of sustainable peace. The program was chaired by Suryalal Yadav, President of Civilized Society Nepal, Banke, and conducted by Som Gurung, province Coordinator of Nepal Unites.
Sustainable Development Goal 16 aims to promote sustainable peace and bring access to justice for all, and to achieve that goal, the International Day of Peace is celebrated around the world on September 21. The program was attended by local people’s representatives, media persons, police, intellectuals, civil society, and social activists. At the end of this program, all people pray together for a better nation, peaceful world in the Shiv Temple and taking a group photo.
4th September 2021, Kathmandu / Nepal Unites team has done the Blood Donation Program on the occasion of the 59th Nepal Red Cross Day organized jointly by Nepal Unites and Nepal Red Cross Society at National Headquarters, Kalimati, Kathmandu.
Nepali film director Yadav Kumar Bhattarai inaugurated the blood donation program by donating blood. Blood is essential for the treatment and surgery of various diseases, accidents, and childbirth. In order to reduce the shortage of blood to some extent, it is now necessary for everyone to donate blood from their own area.
“Blood is not available anywhere due to lack of blood and since it is made in our human body, it is very important for us to donate blood,” Yadav said. Yadav also argued that blood donation is essential to prevent premature loss of life due to lack of blood. Therefore, he says that there will be no effect or weakness in donating blood. According to the organizers, 13 pints of blood were collected in the blood donation program.
Aug 14, 2021, Rajbiraj: The volunteer members of Nepal Unites distributed the facemasks in Rajbiraj, province no. 2 in the eastern part of Nepal. The facemask campaign included a small rally with participants holding placards with the message: “live and let live,” “stay safe and stay healthy,” “use a face mask, maintain physical distance.”
Santosh Yadav led the campaign and called on the public to wear the facemask and take the act as an obligation. “Some people wear face masks on the chin, some put it in their pocket, and ignore wearing the face mask to wear. A lot of people remove the face mask to talk when they meet with acquaintances,” said Yadav.
For this reason, such behavior does not protect people from the transmission of the virus and jeopardizes lives instead. If people would not be alert at this time, the third wave of COVID-19 would seriously affect us. Nepal Unites put across the message of the importance of wearing facemasks properly and the seriousness of the COVID- 19 during the campaign. A volunteer of Nepal Unites, Mohammad Kamaruddin, said that the fledgling organization had distributed more than a thousand facemasks during this campaign.
Nepal Police Sub-Inspector, Nagendra Chaudhary, said that there is a need for public awareness programs from time to time. Nepal Unites also distributed hand sanitizers to the police and traffic police working in the front line.