WaterAid Nepal Organized WASH Leadership and Capacity Building Training

Dhulikhel : WaterAid Nepal, with close support of Godawari municipality and Centre for integrated Urban Development (CIUD), successfully conducted a three-day training program on WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) Leadership and Capacity Building from November 20 to 23, 2024, in Dhulikhel.

The training was attended by 22 participants, including members of the Water and Sanitation Users Committee (WSUC) from Dukuchhap, elected representatives, engineers from technical and environmental sections in Godawari Municipality, ward technical teams, and staff from the Centre for Integrated Urban Development (CIUD).

The training, facilitated by Mr. Anand Gautam, Water Operator Partnership Coordinator at WaterAid Nepal.

Training was structured into three key components: an exposure visit to the Nala Water and Sanitation Users Committee, focused training sessions, and the development of an action plan for the timely completion of the Dukuchhap Water Supply Scheme.

Exposure Visit to Nala Water Supply Scheme

On the first day, participants visited the Nala Water Supply Scheme in Banepa Ward No. 4. During an interactive session, Mr. Shyam Kumar Shrestha, Chair of the Nala Water and Sanitation Users Committee, shared insights into their success, highlighting the importance of strong team bonding, collective decision-making, and meaningful participation of households.

The Nala committee, recognized for its robust governance and resource management, boasts savings of around NPR 3.2 million, along with land and property ownership.

Training Sessions

The training sessions focused on enhancing communication and leadership skills, with particular emphasis on safely managed water and sanitation systems, WASH resilience, and effective management practices for the Dukuchhap Water Supply Scheme. Participants engaged in discussions to identify challenges, strategies for meeting project timelines, and steps to ensure long-term sustainability post-handover.

Representatives from Diyalo Pvt. Ltd. shared their experiences working with WSUCs, while Ms. Sushrina Manandhar from WaterAid Nepal introduced participants to WaterAid’s Quality Programme Standards and Drinking Water Quality Standards. Participants also assessed potential hazards to the Dukuchhap Water Supply System and explored WASH resilience characteristics developed by WaterAid Nepal.

The training incorporated 12 structured sessions, five interactive games, and four case studies, enabling participants to develop teamwork, communication, and leadership skills. Individual experiences and group presentations further enriched the learning environment.

Action Plan Development

The final segment of the training focused on drafting an action plan for the Dukuchhap Water Supply Project. Participants established a vision: “To provide sufficient drinking water to all households, schools, health posts, and community buildings in Dukuchhap by Baisakh 2082 BS (April/May 2025) through a ‘One House, One Tap’ system, ensuring it is universally accessible, affordable, acceptable, high-quality, and free from discrimination.”

The detailed action plan, developed under the leadership of the Dukuchhap WSUC with support from CIUD and Godawari Municipality technical teams, includes timelines, assigned responsibilities, and monthly monitoring mechanisms.

Closing Ceremony and Feedback

Ms. Anita Bohara, Chief of the Disaster and Environment Section at Godawari Municipality, conducted the closing session. Participants expressed satisfaction, noting that the training provided valuable knowledge on WASH systems and inspiration from the Nala WSUC’s management practices.

Mr. Gyandra KC, Chairperson of WSUC; Ms. Rupa Pariyar, Elected Female Representative from Dukuchhap Ward No. 8; Ms. Bindu Tamang, WSUC Treasurer; and Mr. Kishor Moktan from Godawari Municipality commended the interactive approach of the training, particularly the group activities and games.

Mr. Man Bahadur Khadga, Chief Administrative Officer of Godawari Municipality, extended his gratitude to Mr. Gautam and the entire organizing team. He also committed municipal support for completing the action plan within the stipulated timeframe, suggesting that the detailed plan be displayed prominently at the ward office, WSUC office, and municipality office for community engagement and accountability.