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In a significant step toward inclusive governance and sustainable development, INF Nepal’s Access and Inclusion Project under the Community Health and Development Programme successfully organized a three-day Disability Management Strategy and Action Plan Development Workshop from 21 to 23 July 2025 at Shining Hospital Training Hall in Surkhet.
The workshop aimed to promote meaningful inclusion of persons with disabilities across local structures. It also ensured sustainability of project outcomes by fostering ownership among municipal governments.
A key highlight of the event was the formal handover of the draft Disability Management Strategy and Action Plan for the fiscal year 2082 to 2087 to the Deputy Mayor of Gurbhakot Municipality. This marked a shared commitment to building a more inclusive future.
Purpose and Participation
The workshop brought together 35 participants from four municipalities of Karnali Province including Birendranagar, Panchapuri, Simta Rural Municipality, and Gurbhakot. Participants included elected representatives, ward chairs, health and social sector personnel, members of organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), project staff, and external facilitators. The wide representation allowed for diverse and inclusive perspectives in the planning process.
The workshop aimed to:
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Assess disability inclusion in local social and governance structures
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Develop rights-based and resource-sensitive strategies tailored to each municipality
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Strengthen systems for monitoring, accountability, and learning
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Promote inclusive access to health, education, livelihoods, and social protection
Inclusive and Participatory Approach
The three-day workshop was designed to be participatory and accessible for all. It included:
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Expert-led sessions on disability rights, UNCRPD, and inclusive policy frameworks
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Group discussions, action planning, and brainstorming
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Experience sharing from OPDs and local government representatives
Participants with visual, hearing, and mobility impairments were actively engaged in every session. The facilitation approach ensured accessibility and equal participation.
Workshop Highlights
Day 1: Foundation Building
Participants explored fundamental concepts of disability inclusion and international commitments including the SDGs. A pre-assessment was conducted to understand baseline knowledge.
Day 2: Strategy Development
Each municipality shared reflections on current disability-related work. Guided by the Local Government Operation Act 2074 and Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) principles, participants began drafting strategies across 19 thematic areas.
Day 3: Finalization and Handover
The final day included group presentations, a post-assessment, and collaborative discussions to finalize the draft Strategy and Action Plan. Each municipality received a copy of the draft plan, symbolizing their joint commitment to inclusive local development.
Key Takeaways
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Strengthened understanding of disability inclusion among local leaders
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Shared learning and collaboration between municipalities
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Active and empowered participation from OPDs
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Increased local ownership in disability-inclusive planning
Moving Forward
The draft Disability Management Strategy and Action Plan 2082 to 2087 reflects a united vision for inclusive development that ensures equity, dignity, and access for persons with disabilities. The active involvement of elected officials and OPDs throughout the process laid a strong foundation for continued progress in inclusive governance.
INF Nepal remains committed to supporting municipalities in translating these strategies into meaningful action.