National Governance Symposium 2023 | Opening Session | Day 1

Stakeholders from public policy and governance sectors joined forces to discuss governance innovations for inclusive development at the National Governance Symposium 2023 organized by the Governance Lab. The 2-day symposium themed “Governance Innovations for Inclusive Development” held in Kathmandu brought together more than 300 relevant stakeholders from government, private sector, civil society, and international scholars and development agencies.
The event took place in collaboration with the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration, Ministry of Finance, National Planning Commission, Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers and organizing partners Nepal Leadership Academy and Daayitwa.
The event kicked off with the Welcome remarks by the Chairperson of Governance Lab, Dr. Pukar Malla, and he stressed that neglecting pivotal roles played by women, youth, Dalits, Madhesis, and other marginalized groups hampers Nepal's sustainable development. Governance, viewed collaboratively beyond the government, catalyzes transformative outcomes. The Symposium seeks innovative solutions and multi-stakeholder partnerships, representing a collective endeavor for real inclusive development in Nepal.
Inaugurating the National Governance Symposium 2023, Dr. Baikuntha Aryal, Chief Secretary, Government of Nepal emphasized on the need to engender" the macroeconomic framework in Nepal, demonstrating a sincere commitment to inclusivity by recognizing and valuing the often overlooked contributions of women in the country.
The Keynote Speaker of the event, Dr. Mukta Lama Tamang took the stage to address the dynamics of evidence-based policymaking in fostering inclusive development by discussing the crucial role of solid evidence and data in ensuring policy effectiveness for catering to the population's diverse needs. Additionally, Dr. Tamang highlighted the transformative power of art activism especially among the youth, as a transformative force capable of challenging stereotypes and promoting inclusivity through creative and artistic expressions.
Ms. Rita Thapa , Feminist Activist and the Founder of Tewa and Nagarik Aawaz, delivered special remarks, passionately urging the cultivation of an inclusive environment that acknowledges the invaluable contributions of women in unpaid care work within households.
Mr. Bhim Prasad Dhungana, Mayor, Neelakantha Municipality and President, Municipality Association of Nepal stressed the importance of holding authorities accountable through questioning to ensure the effective execution of policies and plans aimed at fostering inclusion.
#NGS23 #NationalGovernanceSymposium #nationalgovernancesymposium2023 #NGS #InclusiveGovernanceJourney #governancelab #governanceinnovations #inclusion #inclusivedevelopment #policy #innovation #development #inclusion #collaboration #inclusivefuture