Advocacy Interaction program among stakeholders on Inclusive education and issues of girls and young women with disabilities in access to technology_Lumbini (Municipal)

22nd December 2023

Nepalgunj, Banke, Lumbini Province

Access Planet Organization hosted an "Advocacy Interaction Program on Inclusive Education", supported by the Disability Rights Fund (DRF), on December 22nd, 2023, at Hotel City Palace in Nepalgunj, Lumbini Province. The event gathered participants, including government representatives from local and municipal levels in Nepalgunj, Banke branch, advocacy group members of Nepalgunj, and organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs). The main aim of the interaction was to highlight the challenges faced by girls and young women with disabilities and gather support from different stakeholders to enhance quality education and technology access.

Objectives:

1. Raise awareness and sensitize stakeholders about challenges faced by girls with disabilities in inclusive education and technology access.
2. Advocate for inclusive policies and gather commitments from municipal stakeholders.
3. Identify and address barriers hindering individuals with disabilities' inclusive and quality education and tech access.
4. Facilitate open dialogue and information sharing for impactful advocacy and effective implementation.

The Advocacy Interaction Program led by Access Planet, facilitated by Jyotsana Prajapati, featured a comprehensive exploration of challenges faced by girls and young women with disabilities in accessing education and technology. The program included impactful presentations by Access Planet, Nepalgunj Sub-metropolitan City, and Khajura Municipality, highlighting systemic issues and proposing solutions. Interactive discussions involved diverse perspectives, from parents and students to disability advocates and municipal representatives. Notable commitments were made by government stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and promising tangible actions to address identified challenges. The program concluded with a manifest presentation and handover, reinforcing a collective commitment to creating an inclusive educational environment in Lumbini Province.

Output:

1. Obtain commitments from stakeholders for inclusive education and technology access.
2. Increased understanding of challenges faced by girls and young women with disabilities.
3. Commenced dialogue and collaboration among government representatives, advocacy groups, and disability organizations.
4.  Insights gained from participant inquiries, guiding future advocacy efforts.