May 30, 2025, Kanchanpur – Saathi conducted a monitoring and capacity-building visit to the Women Shelter in Kanchanpur under the GBVPR II/EWPN program, supported by UNFPA. The visiting team—comprising Mr. Santosh Pokharel (Portfolio Manager), Ms. Palita Thapa (GBV Program Manager), Mr. Devendra Basnet (Finance Officer), and Mr. Khadga Oli (Finance Associate)—assessed the shelter’s physical infrastructure, security protocols, service delivery, and psychosocial support services using the Quality Improvement Tool. The team also observed the ongoing Advanced Tailoring Training aimed at equipping survivors with practical, market-relevant skills to support their journey toward economic empowerment. During informal group discussions, beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the training and shared their aspirations to start small businesses and gain financial independence.
Additionally, a coaching and mentoring session titled “Gender-Based Violence: Attitudes and Perceptions” was delivered to shelter staff. The session focused on recognizing unconscious biases, promoting survivor-centered and trauma-informed approaches, and fostering critical reflection on personal and institutional attitudes toward GBV survivors. Staff actively engaged in the session and committed to applying these principles in their daily work.
Several areas for improvement—particularly in infrastructure maintenance, documentation practices, and resource availability—were identified. Saathi will coordinate with local authorities to address these gaps and ensure continuous follow-up support. The team also plans to enhance economic empowerment activities through institutional linkages and provide regular coaching sessions to strengthen staff capacity and improve the quality of services for GBV survivors.
