Supporting Safe, Inclusive Education in Nepal

Through the UK Government-funded Security and Justice Programme (SJP), People in Need (PIN) has expanded GIEN interventions to seven local governments: Janakpurdham, Simrangaudh, and Barahathawa in Madhesh Province; Kohalpur and Shivaraj in Lumbini Province; and Bheriganga and Birendranagar in Karnali Province—reaching 15 schools across these municipalities.

PIN is leading “better prevention of and response to Gender based Violence (GBV) for women and girls at risk of violence and Wider Security and Justice Safety Problems” component of Security and Justice Programme (SJP) with our partner Divya Development Resource Center (DDRC).

At its core, GIEN tackles and addresses deep-rooted systemic barriers—including poverty, discriminatory social norms, GBV and other forms of violence, discrimination and inadequate infrastructure such as gender and disability friendly toilets, menstrual hygiene facilities, proximity, etc.—that have historically excluded at-risk children from education. By emphasising education as both a fundamental right and a pathway to empowerment, GIEN fosters inclusion, builds confidence, and enables students to participate meaningfully in their communities.

Through GIEN, PIN is working to ensure that girls, children with disabilities, and students from marginalised and excluded communities i.e ethnic and linguistic minorities, economically disadvantaged, LGBTIQA+ etc have equal access to quality education in a safe and supportive learning environment.

A Platform for Voices: Leadership in Action

At Shree Prabhat Secondary School, Birendranagar municipality, Karnali Province, GIEN has become a catalyst for change. Tek Raj Acharya, the 35-year-old president of the School Management Committee (SMC), first encountered GIEN through a meeting facilitated by SJP. The session expanded his understanding of inclusivity, not only for girls but also for orphans, children with disabilities, and LGBTQIA+ students.

"I had never seen such a platform before," Tek Raj shared. “It brought together students, teachers, the principal, parents, ward representatives, and social workers. Everyone was participating actively. It gave us space to listen, plan, and act together.”

As the coordinator of the school-level GIEN, Tek Raj played a key role in refining the school’s Complaint Response Mechanism (CRM). While a CRM previously existed, the GIEN discussions revealed that many students hesitated to use it due to fear of exposure or retaliation. Acting on this insight, Tek Raj led a teacher orientation focused on maintaining confidentiality and building student trust.

Student Empowerment in Practice

Pushpa Nepali, a 16-year-old student from Grade 9 and assistant secretary of the Shree Prabhat Secondary School’s Child Club, Birendranagar, is another inspiring example of GIEN’s impact. While she was already active in school, her principal, Mr. Gangasagar Saru, encouraged her to join GIEN meetings. Over three months, Pushpa learned about disability inclusion, LGBTQIA+ rights, and gender-sensitive practices.

“Before being part of GIEN, I used disrespectful words towards people with disabilities and LGBTIQ+ communities without realising it as well as being unaware of the correct terminologies,” she admitted. “Now, I’ve stopped using those words and treat everyone with respect. I also learned that periods aren’t just something girls should know about—it’s important for everyone.”

Pushpa observed a shift in school culture. Students were no longer passive participants but were consulted on key decisions. For example, ahead of International Women’s Day, students were asked for their input in planning the event—something that had never happened before. “It made us feel seen and valued,” she said.

Inclusion in Action and Plans for the Future

GIEN’s inclusive approach has also empowered parents—particularly those of children with disabilities—to engage meaningfully in their children's education. One father, initially silent during meetings, gradually found his voice and began sharing his experiences after regular participation. His journey reflects a broader shift catalyzed by GIEN: moving from passive presence to active involvement. This kind of community engagement doesn’t just build confidence—it prompts critical conversations around improving school environments, responsiveness, and student support systems.

At Shree Prabhat Secondary School in Birendranagar Municipality, Karnali Province, this engagement has translated into concrete actions. The school has embedded regular monitoring mechanisms within the GIEN structure to ensure long-term sustainability. Importantly, school-level GIEN meetings have sparked discussions that led to reviewing complaint mechanisms for greater student safety, organizing inclusive events, and prioritizing menstrual health and disability inclusion. Moving forward, the school plans to continue capacity-building sessions for students, facilitate parent-school dialogues, and strengthen its inclusive practices—showcasing how GIEN can be a catalyst for both cultural and structural transformation in education.

Conclusion: A Path Forward

GIEN is more than a network—it’s a movement toward equity in education. Shree Prabhat Secondary School is becoming a model for inclusive, student-centred learning through the leadership of individuals like Tek Raj Acharya and the voices of students like Pushpa Nepali.

People in Need works with civil society and relevant government authorities worldwide to improve public services.

As GIEN continues to grow, it is changing schools and mindsets, building trust, and shaping futures. With the active involvement of communities, educators, and young leaders, GIEN is laying the groundwork for a more inclusive Nepal—one classroom at a time. Overall, GIEN has been a crucial platform for advocating systemic changes, such as the development of a Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) - resilient School Improvement Plan (SIP). Shree Prabhat School has incorporated this into their GIEN annual action plan, including actions to address harmful social norms and GBV issues.