July 11, 2026 – Saathi celebrated the Silver Jubilee of its Children Program on 11 July, marking 25 years of providing care, protection, education, and opportunities to children and young people in need.
The event brought together more than 300 participants, including government representatives, former presidents of Saathi, board members, donors, development partners, alumni, children, youth, staff, volunteers, and well-wishers to celebrate this milestone.
The celebration began with a musical performance by the children, followed by a symbolic plant-watering ceremony representing hope, growth, and Saathi’s continued commitment to nurturing every child’s potential.
A major highlight of the event was the launch of 25 Success Stories – Our Journey, Our Story (Testimonies of Change), a publication featuring inspiring stories of young people whose lives have been transformed through the program.
In her welcome remarks, Saathi President Ms. Sajani Amatya reflected on the program’s 25-year journey and thanked the individuals and organizations whose continued support has sustained the initiative.
Chief Guest Mr. Chiribabu Maharjan, Mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City, appreciated Saathi’s longstanding contribution to child protection and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration to ensure every child grows up in a safe and nurturing environment.
Children Program Coordinator Ms. Anju Singh presented the evolution and achievements of the program, highlighting its transformation from residential care into a comprehensive child protection initiative that includes education, psychosocial support, family reintegration, and youth transition services.
The event also featured reflections from youth alumni, who shared how the program had shaped their education, careers, confidence, and independent lives. Former Saathi President Ms. Pramada Shah recalled the establishment of the Children Program following her meeting with Mr. Jean-Michel Peny and expressed her appreciation for his two decades of philanthropic support for vulnerable children in Nepal. She also acknowledged the 18 years of support provided by Crystal Kids, another French NGO, which has been supporting one of Saathi’s children’s homes.
A special recognition was presented to Mr. Jean-Michel Peny, President of Smart Pharma Consulting and Kids of the World, in appreciation of his 20 years of partnership and unwavering commitment to the Saathi Children Program. Sharing his reflections, Mr. Peny reaffirmed his continued support for the initiative. To date, the program has supported more than 400 children.
The celebration concluded with cultural performances by the children and closing remarks by Saathi Executive Director Ms. Suvekchhya Rana, who thanked children, youth, former presidents, board members, government representatives, donors, development partners, volunteers, and well-wishers for their invaluable support over the past 25 years. She reaffirmed Saathi’s commitment to protecting children’s rights and creating opportunities for every child to thrive.
