KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 13

Australia's Ambassador to Nepal, Felicity Volk on Tuesday awarded medals to the participants of the Sports for Children and Adults with Cerebral Palsy.

The Australian government-funded community sports programme was organised by the Association of Nepalese Alumni from Australia (ANAA) in partnership with the Self- Help Group for Cerebral Palsy (SGCP). A total of 50 children and adults with cerebral palsy participated in the event.

Ambassador Volk said the promotion of social inclusion was a key priority for the Australian government in Australia and in our partnerships around the world. 'We provide support for people living with disability so that all people, whatever their circumstances, can live full, happy and productive lives. We advocate strongly for this in the UN and we work actively for it on the ground, including with organisations like the SGCP and ANAA,' Volk said.

Ambassador Volk also thanked Australia Awards alumni, Rajuna Singh and ANAA President Ananta Poudyel for organising the event and championing the values of social inclusion.

'Sport is an integral part of education, so it must be accessible, safe, and fun for all. Creating inclusive sports nurtures societies that give everyone a sense of belonging, community and capacity. It promotes positive social, psychological and health outcomes. And it helps break down stigma while building community spirit,' Volk added.

A version of this article appears in the print on September 14, 2023, of The Himalayan Times.