A highlight of the event was the panel discussion on "Translating Research into Policy Action in Nepal." The panelists, hailing from diverse backgrounds, emphasized the importance of research-based evidence and brought together unique perspectives from academia, the private sector, bureaucracy, and politics.
Hon. Bidya Bhattarai, Member of Parliament, lauded Daayitwa for its commitment to evidence-based policy making and youth engagement, bridging the trust deficit between young people and the government. She emphasized the role of political parties in planned development and called on the private sector to support programs like the Daayitwa Fellowship.
Mr. Ek Narayan Aryal, Secretary of the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, stressed the importance of cooperation between youth, government, and the private sector. He highlighted the need for trust-building between the government and the people and encouraged all stakeholders to join the movement.
The symposium also featured speeches from mentors, public partners, and funding partners, underlining the importance of collaboration in fostering an evidence-based policy ecosystem.
Mr. Anand Bagaria, Managing Director, Nimbus and Mr. Dileep Agrawal, Chairperson and Managing Director, WorldLink, representing the private sector, shed light on the importance of fostering discussions and recommendations that strengthen youth-government relationships and promote evidence-based policy decisions that are beneficial to all including the private sector. They stated that initiatives like this are crucial and emphasized the need of the private sectors to support initiatives like DNPPF.
Mr. Prakash Sanjel, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, representing government stakeholders, shared his delight of having exceptional youth partake in policy research in current relevant issues to the ministry.
Daayitwa's commitment to nurturing collaborative leadership among Nepali youth and promoting innovation in governance is evident through the success of the 2023 Public Policy Fellowship. The event celebrated not only the graduation of the Fellows but also the spirit of innovation and self-responsibility, which are essential for Nepal's continued progress.
In a world where innovation and evidence-based decision-making are the cornerstones of progress, Daayitwa's efforts in building a community of young policy entrepreneurs are setting the stage for a brighter and more prosperous Nepal. The symposium served as a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and the dedication of Nepal's youth to making a positive impact on their nation's future.