Capacity-Building Program on Climate- and Environment-Friendly Governance Concludes

Bhaktapur, 20 Chaitra: A capacity-building program on climate- and environment-friendly governance, organized by Jagruti Bal Tatha Yuva Sarokar Nepal in collaboration with the National Youth Council, has successfully concluded.

The program, held from Chaitra 17 to 20, engaged 34 young participants under the age of 30 from all seven provinces through a network of organizations involved in climate and environmental issues. Inclusive representation of gender and sexual minorities, persons with disabilities, and other marginalized groups was ensured.

During the program, Chief Administrative Officer of the National Youth Council, Geh Nath Gautam, highlighted that thematic youth networks had been formed and mobilized in line with the National Youth Policy 2082. He emphasized that such programs are effective in enhancing youth participation in climate governance.

UNDP representative Rasu Manandhar expressed that youth play a crucial role in the effective implementation and improvement of Nepal’s climate change-related goals, policies, and plans.

Jagruti Bal Tatha Yuva Sarokar Nepal Chairperson Tilottama Paudel facilitated discussions on youth rights, responsibilities, and networking, stressing the need for confidence in goal-setting.

UNDP representative Vinita Karki guided participants on measures to protect children, adolescents, and youth from violence and abuse, while promoting child-friendly, youth-friendly, and gender-friendly environments.

Associate Professor Dr. Dipesh Ghimire of Tribhuvan University underscored the importance of active youth participation at every stage of policy formulation, system development, and implementation in climate governance.

During the program, adolescent activist Anisha Paudel from Nawalpur highlighted that children and adolescents are disproportionately affected by climate change, emphasizing the need for child- and youth-friendly governance systems.

Network Chairperson Rita Thapa informed that the network was established to raise awareness about climate change and ensure youth participation in policy-making processes.

Gender expert Divya Devi Gurung facilitated discussions on promoting inclusive climate governance, ensuring the participation of persons with disabilities, women, and gender and sexual minorities.

Executive member of the National Youth Council, Prasanna Dhungel, stated that the Council will continue to ensure youth involvement in climate and environmental protection in the coming days.

Deputy Secretary Chandra Thapa emphasized that youth leadership is essential for environmental conservation and sustainable development. Environmental activist Diksha Subedi highlighted the need for youth to be aware and active in climate justice and environmental campaigns.

At the conclusion of the program, Network Chairperson Rita Thapa shared that the network will prepare a work plan to promote environmental conservation, sustainable development, and climate-friendly governance, which will be presented to the National Youth Council.