Enhancing the understanding of local government officials on SDG4

In order to strengthen the capacity of the newly elected local government officials for the implementation of formal and non-formal education systems, as well as developing policies and programs for literacy and lifelong learning, the Centre for Education and Human Resource Development organized a two-day workshop under UNESCO’s CapED Literacy Project on 28-29 April 2019 in Phalewash Municipality,  Parbat District.

The Mayor of Phalewash Municipality, Madan Pani Sharma, highlighted the importance of quality education. He said, “This workshop has given support to further developing a long-term action plan. Close collaboration with UNESCO, local-level social organizations and school sector stakeholders is essential for us to make it possible.” 

The workshop introduced the concept of SDGs, and Nepal's initiative on free and compulsory education and lifelong learning were also discussed. Participants were motivated to explore possible ways of promoting literacy and lifelong learning activities, such as building child-friendly learning environments based on early childhood development and conducting community-based income-generating activities. 

The presentations by Prof. Laxman Gyawali and Prof. Dhanapati Subedi from Kathmandu University and education expert Mahashram Sharma focused on the features of the Local Government Operation Act and highlighted the rights and duties of the local government regarding education.  

"We need to collaborate with each other to carry out reforms in existing system of governance. We all need to bear our responsibilities. Education is a major factor that can bring development more holistically," said Mahashram Sharma. 

Altogether, 70 participants from all 11 wards of Phalewash Municipality, including officials and their key stakeholders, participated in the event