SDF and Save the Children Launch Regional Education Project
The SAARC Development Fund (SDF), in partnership with Save the Children, has officially launched a regional initiative titled “Partnership for Quality Inclusive Early Childhood Development and Basic Education.”
This project was formally inaugurated on Friday at the SAARC Secretariat in Kathmandu.
The total budget for the three-year project is USD 4.79 million.
Project Focus and Beneficiaries
The project will collaborate with the governments of Nepal and Bhutan, local communities, teachers, early childhood development (ECD) and basic education facilitators, as well as children aged 3 to 12.
It aims to promote quality, inclusive early childhood development and foundational education.
Statements from SAARC and Project Partners
His Excellency Mohammad Golam Sarwar, Secretary-General of SAARC, stated in his welcome speech that the project will support the implementation of national education priorities in Bhutan and Nepal and will contribute to promoting equitable access to education.
Irosha Cooray, Officer-in-Charge of the SAARC Development Fund, emphasized that the initiative aligns with the Fund’s commitment to social development and regional integration.
Project Implementation in Nepal
In Nepal, the project will be implemented in Madhesh Province, where ECD indicators are currently among the lowest.
Tara Kshetri, Country Director of Save the Children for Nepal and Bhutan, stressed the urgent need to take action for inclusive education.
Project Activities
The activities under this initiative will primarily focus on improving inclusive early childhood education.
