Kanchanpur, March 3, 2025 – Saathi, in collaboration with Shuklaphanta Municipality, organized the “Children with the Mayor” program in Shuklaphanta Municipality, Kanchanpur as part of the GOAL Project (Generating Ownership, Awareness, and Liberty), under the auspices of AEIN Luxembourg.
The event comprised two key sessions:
- Mental Health and Well-being
- Mayor with Children – Q&A Session
Session 1: Mental Health and Well-being
This session sensitized participants on mental health, well-being, and the causes of adverse mental health. Discussions highlighted how Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and other socio-environmental factors significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts. The session also emphasized the critical role of parents and teachers in safeguarding children from abuse and violence that can affect their mental health.
Additionally, the session addressed the risks posed by social media, including potential abuse and violence, and urged parents and teachers to remain vigilant regarding children’s use of mobile phones and social platforms.
Session 2: Mayor with Children – Q&A Session
The second session provided children with a platform to directly engage with local leaders, including the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Chief Administration Officer, Education Officer, Ward Chairs, and members. Children raised concerns on limited educational resources, lack of sports materials, lab essentials, poor road infrastructure, and measures to address caste and gender discrimination. They also inquired about cybercrime and online violence, which disproportionately affect adolescent girls.
Some students expressed their excitement at the opportunity to interact with the municipal leadership, as they had never had such direct access before.
Commitments from Local Leaders
- Education Officer Tekendra Raj Bhatta assured that the education unit would monitor schools, provide essential resources, and implement a ban on mobile phone usage and tobacco consumption in schools after consulting stakeholders.
- Deputy Mayor Kalpana Kumari Joshi (Pant) reaffirmed her commitment to effectively address GBV cases through the Judicial Committee and to ensure children’s safety from drugs, abuse, and violence.
- Mayor Ran Br. Mahara acknowledged the concerns raised, stating that while some issues are already being addressed, others will be incorporated into municipal policies and programs to create a more equitable and prosperous municipality.
Impact and Participation
The event witnessed active participation from over 250 attendees, including ward representatives, students, teachers, parents, and duty bearers. By providing a platform for dialogue between children and local leadership, this initiative reinforced accountability and strengthened community efforts toward a safer, more inclusive, and child-friendly municipality.
