May 3, 2025, Djhangadhi – As part of the GBVPR-II and EWPN programs, Saathi organized a three-day refresher training on Gender Transformative Approach (GTA) and survivor-centered services for staff of Safe Houses/Shelter Homes. Held in Dhangadhi from 1st to 3rd May 2025, the training aimed to enhance the capacity of frontline staff in integrating GTA into GBV prevention and response services and institutional practices.
Day I: Program Review and Strategic Reflections
The first day focused on reviewing the progress and challenges of program implementation across the districts. Participants shared updates, achievements, and barriers faced in their respective locations.
Program Manager Palita Thapa opened the session by outlining the training objectives. She highlighted the importance of strengthening participants’ understanding of GTA to improve survivor-centric service delivery and build institutional capacity to address GBV effectively.
UNFPA Representative Krishna Bahadur Chaudhary emphasized the need to adhere to key GBV case management principles—confidentiality, safety, non-discrimination, non-judgment, and respect. He acknowledged the limitations of Safe Houses in providing all forms of support but stressed the critical role of frontline staff in coordinating with other service providers. He also underscored the importance of avoiding any form of judgment toward survivors.
Province Coordinator Parbati Vandari provided updates on recent developments and reiterated the need for Safe Houses to adopt a holistic approach in supporting GBV survivors.
Finance Officer Devendra Basnet facilitated the session on financial reporting and its importance.
Day II & III: Core Concepts and Practical Application of GTA
Facilitated by Ms. Meena Sharma, the second and third days focused on deepening participants’ knowledge of GTA concepts and applying them in daily practice. Key sessions included:
- Communication strategies for survivor engagement
- Understanding power dynamics and gender norms
- Addressing the root causes of gender inequality
- Exploring masculinities and their role in GBV
- Mobilizing families and communities for GBV prevention
Interactive group work, role plays, and scenario-based discussions helped participants translate concepts into actionable strategies for service improvement.
Participants and Representation
A total of 14 frontline staff participated in the training, representing Safe Houses and Shelter Homes from Doti, Baitadi, Bajura, Bajhang, Achham, Kailali, and Kanchanpur districts.
This training forms part of Saathi’s broader commitment to advancing institutional transformation and survivor-centered approaches to end Gender-Based Violence in Nepal.
