Lalitpur, The National Child Friendly Local Governance Forum (NCFLGF), in collaboration with Jagriti Child and Youth Concern Nepal (JCYCN) and supported by World Vision International Nepal (WVIN), successfully concluded a four-day Training of Trainers on Child Friendly and Nutrition Friendly Local Governance. Held from July 8-11, 2024, in Lalitpur, this training aimed to enhance the competencies of CFLG campaigners from different parts of the country, providing them with the latest knowledge and skills in child-friendly and nutrition- friendly governance.
With 30 participants representing various working areas of WVIN, CFLG campaigners, and NCFLGF members, the program commenced with a welcome address by Mr. Ashok Khanal, Coordinator of the National CFLG Forum. Mr. Purushottam Aryal facilitated the entire training on CFLG and NFLG. In his welcome speech, Mr. Tilottam Paudel, Strategic Advisor of the National CFLG Forum, emphasized the need to advance these campaigns and the importance of trainings like this in empowering campaigners. He noted, “Identifying and engaging with key stakeholders is crucial for the successful implementation of CFLG and NFLG initiatives.”
“Our goal is to capacitate our partners and campaigners to drive real change in their communities,” stated Suman Dahal, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration (MOFAGA), while inaugurating the training on its first day. “This training is a crucial step towards ensuring that child-friendly and nutrition-friendly governance becomes a reality at the local level.” Uma Magar from World Vision International Nepal then gave a speech on behalf of the organization, highlighting World Vision’s commitment to child welfare and their alignment with the CFLG initiative. She also showcased some successful projects and interventions supporting child development and protection.
Shiva Ranjan Poudyal from the National Planning Commission presented the context on MSNP
and its linkages with SDG goals. Lila Bikram Thapa, Head of the Nutrition Department at the Ministry of Health, delivered the presentation on fundamental nutrition, emphasizing the role of nutrition specialists and the integration of nutrition-focused practices into health institutions.
Following a series of informative sessions, Resham Kandel, Under Secretary of MOFAGA, presented on the steps and institutional structure of CFLG and NFLG. He highlighted the interconnectedness of these governance models and the importance of a coordinated approach. “Understanding the link between CFLG and NFLG is essential for maximizing our efforts and achieving sustainable outcomes,” Mr. Kandel remarked.
Neera Sharma, Program Manager from the World Food Program, conducted a session on the School Mid-day Meal program supported by WFP and discussed the need to empower local levels to integrate nutrition into schools through such programs.
Sujan Adhikari from Bhaktapur shared, ‘I wasn’t very aware of the NFLG despite my active involvement in CFLG promotion. These trainings are crucial for empowering local levels, providing essential knowledge and skills for effective governance.’ Pooja Pokhrel added, ‘We’ve been actively involved in nutrition and CFLG, but merging these two is a new challenge. This training has given me deeper insights and tools to address this effectively.’ Namaraj Thapa from Dailekh emphasized, ‘We need to integrate these campaigns to ensure nutrition and impact reach every child, especially those in the Karnali region.’
Participants were actively involved in group discussions, exploring the indicators of CFLG and NFLG, identifying necessary activities, and outlining collaboration strategies with various stakeholders. These sessions were marked by rich content and meaningful exchanges, reinforcing the participants’ commitment to advancing child-friendly and nutrition-friendly governance. During the training, Mr. Ashok Khanal, Coordinator of NCFLG Forum, facilitated sessions on Bal Bhela (child gatherings) using various interactive instruments designed to engage children. These tools included games, storytelling, and participatory activities aimed at making children feel involved and heard in governance processes.
Mr. Shyam Adhikari, Advocacy and Campaign Manager of World Vision International Nepal, presented on the ENOUGH campaign, discussing on World Vision’s commitment to a world where every child has access to proper nutrition. “We were very skeptical about integrating CFLG and NFLG together, but now we see it is more important than ever, and the commitment to this cause should come from everyone,” stated Mr. Adhikari.
The training concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony, where participants were formally recognized for their dedication and engagement. This was followed by an experience-sharing session, where participants reflected on their learnings and shared insights from the four-day program. Rasila Dhamala, Program Coordinator of the NCFLG Forum, noted that the NCFLG Forum was established in 2017 by former members of Child Clubs to promote Child Friendly Local Governance. She added that since its inception, the NCFLG Forum has been actively engaged with local governments and campaigners in promoting child-friendly practices and policies. The Forum has facilitated numerous programs and initiatives aimed at empowering children and youth, ensuring their voices are heard in local governance, and fostering environments where their rights are prioritized and protected. Participants left the training
equipped not only with newly acquired practical tools and strategies but also with a renewed commitment to drive positive change through CFLG and NFLG campaigns in their communities.
