Birendranagar, Surkhet | February 3, 2025
The Youth in Policy and Governance (YPG) Karnali Training Camp III, organized by the Hriti Foundation with support from the U.S. Embassy in Nepal and in collaboration with the Karnali Provincial Assembly and Purak Asia, was held in Birendranagar, Surkhet, from February 1 to 3, 2025.
This intensive training camp brought together the top 15 participants from the previous YPG Karnali Training Camp II, further equipping them with knowledge and skills in policy analysis, governance, and legislative processes.
The three-day training featured expert-led sessions, interactive discussions, and practical engagement with policymakers. The program began with an icebreaker and leadership discussion, followed by a session on policy challenges led by Hon. Raj Kumar Sharma, former Chief Minister of Karnali Province. Participants also engaged in policy review techniques with Prof. Dr. CP Rijal, Director of the Midwest University Policy Lab.
Sessions focused on empowering legislators, parliamentary conduct, and evidence-based policymaking. Experts such as Prakriti Neupane, Chief of Staff at the Secretariat of MP Sobita Gautam, and Rajendra Paudel, Officer at Karnali Provincial Assembly, provided valuable insights. Additionally, participants took part in a dining etiquette workshop, reflected on lessons learned from past YPG camps, and engaged in a leadership dinner with Members of the Provincial Assembly.
A significant highlight of the camp was an introductory session with over 25 Members of the Karnali Provincial Assembly, including Ministers of Karnali Province Government.
The final day featured an introductory meeting with the Chief Minister of Karnali Province, Hon. Yamlal Kandel, where discussions centered on youth participation in governance and policymaking.
A key outcome of this training is that the top 15 YPG Karnali Fellows from this camp will now work directly with Karnali Provincial Assembly members and parliamentary committees as research associates and knowledge assistants. This initiative ensures that young leaders play an active role in evidence-based policymaking and legislative support, strengthening governance in the province.
Through this program, YPG Karnali continues to build a network of well-equipped young professionals ready to contribute to public policy, governance, and legislative affairs in Nepal.
