Kathmandu Model College commemorated World Social Work Day 2026 under the global theme “Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society” by organizing a month-long series of social engagement activities that culminated in a grand ceremony and policy dialogue on Tuesday.
Students from the Bachelor in Social Work and Psychology programs led a range of community-oriented initiatives throughout the month, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility and inclusive development.
The concluding event featured a policy dialogue titled “Promoting Social Harmony, Unity, and an Inclusive Society,” where experts from the social work sector emphasized that social services should extend beyond institutional projects and be practiced at all levels—from micro to macro, and from individual (nano) to broader societal spheres.
The program was organized in collaboration with the Conflict, Peace and Development Studies Department under Tribhuvan University, with support from organizations including UWS Nepal, Child Nepal, Hami Dajubhai, Swatantrata Abhiyan Nepal, and Yuwalaya.
Addressing the event, College Chief Surendra Subedi highlighted the importance of practical, applied learning, stating that education is a powerful tool for social transformation. He noted that students play a vital role as agents of change in a constantly evolving society and that such programs help them understand ground realities and develop solutions to social challenges.
Dhurba Prasad Timalsina, Head of the Internal Quality Assurance Cell at KMC, emphasized that such observances go beyond formal celebrations. He stated that they help sensitize stakeholders and encourage active participation in policy formulation to ensure constitutional values such as inclusivity, social harmony, equality, and equity.
Program Head (BA & BBS), Alish Raj Rajopadhyaya, remarked that such dialogues enhance students’ understanding of societal issues and provide direction for meaningful engagement and reform.
According to Amit Raj Shrestha, the program brought together diverse experts to explore the role of youth in promoting social harmony, equality, and equity within society.
Pitambar Bhandari, Head of the Central Department of Conflict, Peace and Development Studies, outlined the objectives and rationale of the event. The program also featured renowned mountaineer and photojournalist Purnima Shrestha, who shared her inspiring experiences, including her five successful ascents of Mt. Everest.
Other distinguished panelists included Dr. Mina Poudel, Ms. Ritu Bhatt Rai, Mr. Ashol Siwakoti, Gen Z representative Pratish Shrestha, Mr. Avinash Jha, Ms. Priyanka Kapar, Mr. Chup Bahadur Thapa, and Ms. Manorama Sunuwar.
The event comprised two thematic sessions: the first, a Policy Dialogue on Social Work and Peacebuilding, moderated by Ms. Ojasahwi Shah; and the second, a Policy Dialogue on Unity in Diversity and Inclusive Society, moderated by Ms. Anoma Singh, a second-year BA student.
The Head of Internal Quality Assurance expressed a commitment to preparing a Policy Brief based on the discussions and conclusions of the dialogue and to presenting it to lawmakers. The program was conducted under the chairmanship of Mr. Rameshwor Aryal, Chairperson of the College Management Committee of Kathmandu Model College and KMC Educational Network. The event drew more than 200 attendees, including representatives from civil society, development partner organizations, the private sector, and students, all of whom actively engaged in the program.
