On Shrawan 26th, Hupsekot Rural Municipality became the focal point for a crucial stakeholder meeting aimed at the successful implementation of the “NOURISH Hupsekot” project. This vital initiative, supported by NCELL’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program under the “हामी तपाईंकै लागि” brand theme, is being executed by the Community Innovation Organization (CIO) with the goal of addressing adolescent nutrition, food security, and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) practices across all secondary schools in Hupsekot.
A Glimpse into the Meeting
The meeting, held at the Hupsekot Rural Municipality hall, gathered a diverse group of stakeholders, including local government representatives, school management committee members, female health volunteers, teachers, health officers, and representatives from organizations active in the field of nutrition. The event kicked off with a registration session, followed by an inaugural speech by Mr. Nabaraj Khanal, President of CIO. Mr. Khanal introduced the organization, its mission, and the specific objectives of the NOURISH Hupsekot project, setting the stage for a day of in-depth discussions and planning.
Commitment from the Local Government
In his address, Vice-President of Hupsekot Rural Municipality, Mr. Purna Singh Rana Magar, expressed strong support for the project. He highlighted the critical need for such initiatives in Hupsekot and assured that the Rural Municipality would extend full cooperation to ensure the project’s success. His commitment set a positive tone for the discussions that followed, emphasizing the local government’s role in fostering a healthier environment for adolescents.
Insights from Government Officials
Representatives from the WASH, education, and health departments of the Rural Municipality shared valuable insights into the ground realities of nutrition, food safety, and sanitation in the region’s schools. They discussed the challenges faced in ensuring adequate nutrition and maintaining hygienic conditions in educational institutions. These insights provided a clear picture of the existing gaps and the areas where immediate attention is needed.
The Voice of the People’s Representatives
Following the government officials, people’s representatives from the municipality took the floor. They described the harsh reality of nutrition and the widespread consumption of junk food among youths. The representatives stressed the need for urgent interventions to curb these unhealthy habits and promote better dietary practices among adolescents.
Introducing the Participants
The introductory session allowed each participant to introduce themselves and share their perspectives on the condition of nutrition, food safety, and WASH in their respective schools. This exchange of information highlighted the diverse challenges faced across different institutions and set the stage for collaborative problem-solving. The discussion also touched on the midday meal patterns in schools, their impact on students’ health, and the need for improvement.
Understanding Adolescent Nutrition
In a special presentation, Mr. Narayan Panthi from CIO discussed the alarming rates of malnutrition among youths in Nepal and their limited knowledge about proper nutrition. He emphasized the importance of projects like NOURISH Hupsekot in addressing these issues and educating adolescents on the significance of a balanced diet.
The Nepali Food Thali
Mr. Nabaraj Khanal then presented an overview of the “Nepali Food Thali,” illustrating the importance of including all essential food groups in every meal. This presentation served as a practical guide for participants, showing how traditional Nepali diets can be adapted to meet the nutritional needs of adolescents.
Group Discussions and Future Planning
The meeting then transitioned into a group discussion session, where participants were divided into four groups to delve deeper into the challenges related to youth nutrition, food safety, and WASH in Hupsekot. The discussions focused on identifying the root causes of these issues, evaluating the efforts being made by the Rural Municipality and teachers, and brainstorming potential solutions. These group discussions were instrumental in developing a roadmap for the NOURISH Hupsekot project, ensuring that it is tailored to the specific needs of the community.
A Promising Path Forward
As the meeting drew to a close, a summary of the day’s discussions was presented, followed by closing remarks. The participants expressed optimism about the project’s potential to bring about meaningful change in the health and well-being of adolescents in Hupsekot. The day concluded with a shared meal, providing an opportunity for further informal discussions and networking among the participants.
Conclusion
The stakeholder meeting marked a significant step forward in the NOURISH Hupsekot project. With the commitment of local authorities, the insights of government officials, and the active participation of community representatives, the project is poised to make a substantial impact on adolescent health in Hupsekot. The collaborative efforts demonstrated during this meeting will undoubtedly pave the way for a healthier future for the youth of this region.
As the project moves forward, continued engagement with stakeholders and a focus on practical, community-driven solutions will be key to its success. The NOURISH Hupsekot project is not just about improving nutrition; it’s about empowering a generation to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.