KATHMANDU, MARCH 7
The Embassy of China and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) attended the formal closure of the Support to Schools and Communities in Remote Areas for Pandemic Prevention and Green Recovery (SSPP-GR) Project in Madhes Province.
This joint initiative between the Government of the People's Republic of China and UNDP has significantly strengthened 32 community schools, benefiting 18,000 students and 7,500 families, primarily from marginalized and disaster-vulnerable groups, including Dalits, ethnic and religious minorities, female-headed households, and persons with disabilities.
With an investment of USD 1.55 million, the project has enhanced pandemic and disaster preparedness while improving access to quality education.
The formal closing ceremony, held at Madanpur Jamuniya Birnagara (MJB) Secondary School, was attended by distinguished guests, including Chen Song, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Nepal, and Kyoko Yokosuka, UNDP Nepal's Resident Representative. Also present were Bhrahama Dev Ray, Mayor of Kabilasi Municipality, along with school officials and community representatives who celebrated the project's achievements.
Speaking at the event, UNDP Nepal Resident Representative Kyoko Yokosuka stated "We are committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment where all children can learn and thrive, regardless of their background." She added, "Supporting 32 schools, 18,000 students-half of them girls-and 7,500 families in just one and a half years is a remarkable achievement. My sincere gratitude goes to our partners, including the China Foundation for Rural Development, and special thanks to Ambassador Chen for his leadership and support."
Chen Song, Ambassador of China to Nepal, stated, "Education is the foundation of a country's future, and by investing in Nepal's most asset-its children-we can drive meaningful change. This project has demonstrated the remarkable impact of collaboration between the Chinese government, UNDP, local governments, and our partners. We deeply appreciate UNDP's dedication, and China remains a steadfast supporter of the UN system, committed to working alongside UNDP to advance sustainable development and resilience-building efforts."
The SSPP-GR Project focused on upgrading classroom learning environments, improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities, and providing essential health protection equipment. These interventions have strengthened the capacity of communities to respond effectively to future crises, according to the press release issued by the UNDP.
By addressing both immediate educational needs and long-term disaster preparedness, the SSPP-GR project exemplifies the power of partnership and integrated support. UNDP and its partners remain dedicated to advancing sustainable development and building resilient communities, ensuring that every child and family is equipped to face future challenges, the release further stated.
