Lalitpur, June 17, 2025 – n an effort to enhance community-based prevention and response to gender-based violence (GBV), Saathi, in collaboration with Lalitpur Metropolitan City Ward No. 4, organized a one-day sensitization program focused on sensitive handling of GBV cases and the importance of self-care for service providers. The event brought together 78 participants, including members of women’s groups and ward representatives from Ward No. 4.
The program aimed to strengthen the participants’ knowledge and practical skills in responding to GBV with sensitivity and empathy while also focusing on emotional resilience. By equipping frontline workers and local actors with tools for both survivor support and self-care, the initiative sought to improve the quality and sustainability of GBV response efforts within communities.
The event was formally inaugurated by Ward Representatives Sradha Thapa, Krishnahari Thapa, and Sunil Kumar Rana, along with Saathi’s President Sajani Amatya and Executive Director Suvekchya Rana. In her opening remarks, Amatya highlighted Saathi’s long-standing commitment to ending GBV and emphasized the importance of strong collaboration between civil society organizations and local governments to create safe and inclusive spaces for women and girls.
During the event, ward representatives shared their experiences and reflections on the prevalence and impact of GBV in their areas. They reiterated their dedication to supporting ongoing awareness and empowerment initiatives, recognizing the pivotal role such programs play in promoting women’s safety, mental health, and inclusion.
Facilitated by Sapana Maharjan and Dilip Shrestha from Saathi, the sessions employed participatory tools including group discussions, interactive games, and real-life reflections. The training covered key topics such as the psychosocial effects of GBV, stress management techniques, mindfulness practices, and the importance of peer support. Participants were encouraged to develop emotional regulation strategies and self-care routines to maintain their well-being while supporting others.
The training emphasized that emotionally stable and self-aware service providers are better equipped to offer empathetic and effective support to GBV survivors. Beyond individual capacity building, the program fostered a broader community approach to GBV response—where both service delivery and mental health are treated as integral to survivor support.
Saathi extends its heartfelt appreciation to Lalitpur Metropolitan City Ward No. 4 for their active partnership and financial support. Gratitude is also extended to all participants whose enthusiastic engagement made the event a safe, interactive, and healing space for collective learning and commitment to action.
