Kathmandu | 6 May 2025
As part of a shared commitment to promoting inclusive economic opportunities for persons with disabilities and other marginalised communities, Ability Manch, Disability Human Rights Promotion Society (DHRPS Nepal), and Global Compact Nepal convened a strategic planning and partnership meeting on 6 May 2025 to finalise preparations for an upcoming workshop scheduled for 15 May 2025 in Kathmandu.
The meeting brought together representatives from the partner organisations to review the workshop agenda, define roles and responsibilities, and strengthen collaboration for an initiative that seeks to promote entrepreneurship, employment, and economic empowerment for persons with disabilities and marginalised communities.
The planned workshop forms part of a broader initiative to create an inclusive ecosystem where persons with disabilities have equal access to employment opportunities, entrepreneurship support, and sustainable livelihoods. Participants discussed strategies to ensure that the programme would be practical, accessible, and responsive to the diverse needs of young people from historically excluded communities.
A major focus of the discussion was empowering youth with disabilities through career readiness and employment support. The workshop was designed to provide participants with practical skills in:
- Resume and CV writing
- Interview preparation and communication skills
- Career planning and job readiness
- Employment pathways and job placement opportunities
- Building confidence for entering the labour market
Beyond employment, the partners also explored long-term strategies for strengthening entrepreneurship among persons with disabilities. Discussions emphasised the importance of creating an enabling environment where persons with disabilities can establish and grow their own businesses while contributing to Nepal’s economic development.
The meeting highlighted the need to promote inclusive entrepreneurship, encourage innovation, and support the development and marketing of sustainable local products produced by persons with disabilities and marginalised communities. Participants recognised that entrepreneurship can provide greater economic independence while creating opportunities for leadership, creativity, and community development.
The collaborating organisations also discussed ways to strengthen partnerships with the private sector, employers, development partners, and government agencies to improve access to decent work and business opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Participants agreed that economic exclusion remains one of the greatest barriers facing persons with disabilities in Nepal. Limited access to quality education, skills development, financial services, employment, and markets continues to prevent many individuals from fully participating in the economy. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated action, inclusive policies, and strong partnerships across sectors.
The meeting reaffirmed the partners’ shared vision of building an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem where disability inclusion, social innovation, and sustainable economic development go hand in hand. By investing in the talents, leadership, and potential of persons with disabilities, the initiative aims to unlock untapped social and economic opportunities while contributing to more inclusive and resilient communities.
Ability Manch, DHRPS Nepal, and Global Compact Nepal expressed their commitment to continuing collaborative efforts that promote equal opportunities, empower future leaders, and create pathways for meaningful employment and entrepreneurship.
The upcoming workshop represents an important step towards advancing disability-inclusive employment, supporting aspiring entrepreneurs, and ensuring that persons with disabilities are recognised not only as beneficiaries of development but also as innovators, business leaders, and active contributors to Nepal’s economic growth.
Through partnerships, inclusive innovation, and collective action, the collaborating organisations remain committed to building a future where every individual—regardless of disability or background—has the opportunity to learn, work, lead, and thrive.
