December 17, 2025, Kathmandu – Under the GBVPR II programme supported by UNFPA, Saathi facilitated a reflection and learning dialogue to share key challenges and emerging issues faced by safe houses and shelter homes in Sudurpaschim Province and to discuss these in relation to the experiences of shelters operating in Kathmandu Valley. The program was attended by representatives from various organizations managing shelters in Kathmandu, creating a valuable space for cross-provincial learning and collective reflection.
The session was facilitated by Ms. Sapna Maharjan, Coordinator at Saathi. Welcoming the participants, Ms. Suvekchya Rana, Executive Director of Saathi, highlighted the objectives of the program and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to strengthen survivor-centred, inclusive, and sustainable shelter responses. Ms. Palita Thapa, GBV Program Manager at Saathi, presented on emerging issues and challenges faced by shelters in Sudurpaschim Province and other provinces, including long-term reintegration, management of survivors with mental health needs, care for survivors with newborns and dependent children, financial sustainability, access to legal identity documents, and coordination among service providers.
Ms. Mamta Bisht, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Women, Children and Senior Citizens, shared the initiatives being undertaken by the Ministry and urged participating organizations to submit documented challenges to inform policy dialogue and response mechanisms. Similarly, Ms. Indra Devi Dhakal, Member Secretary of the National Child Rights Council (NCRC), highlighted NCRC’s ongoing initiatives and reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to support efforts to address issues related to children residing in shelter homes.
