Major Scope of Work

NWSSRICDC"s major scope of work encompasses capacity building, research, innovation, and knowledge management in Nepal"s water supply and sanitation sector. The Center carries out a broad range of responsibilities and activities to fulfill its mandate, including:

• Capacity Development and Training: Designing and delivering training programs, workshops, and seminars to enhance the technical and managerial skills of WASH sector personnel at all levels. This includes training for engineers, technicians, managers, social mobilizers, Water User and Sanitation Committees (WUSCs), local government representatives, teachers, and community groups. By providing both basic and advanced courses on topics like water quality testing, sanitation promotion, plumbing, operation & maintenance, project management, leadership, and social inclusion, the Center builds a skilled workforce for the sector. It also conducts Training of Trainers (ToT) and orientation programs to multiply capacity at provincial and local levels.
• Research and Innovation: Undertaking and facilitating applied research in the field of water supply and sanitation to foster innovation. The Center encourages pilot projects and studies on new and emerging WASH technologies - for example, rainwater harvesting, eco-sanitation, wastewater treatment, climate-resilient water solutions, and sanitation safety planning - to address current and future challenges. It collaborates with national and international partners to develop and test innovative approaches, and documents best practices that can be replicated by government bodies and communities.
• Knowledge Management and Information Hub: Serving as a central knowledge hub for the WASH sector by developing and disseminating manuals, guidelines, training curricula, and information, education and communication (IEC) materials. NWSSRICDC systematically archives sectoral knowledge and training resources, maintains a resource library (both physical and digital), and manages data on sector training needs and outcomes. It has initiated efforts like Training Needs Assessments, Training Effectiveness Evaluations, and maintains a roster of WASH training experts to ensure that capacity development interventions remain relevant and effective. The Center also envisions creating online courses and a Training Information Management System for broader reach in the future.
• Technical Support and Laboratory Services: Managing a federal-level Water and Sanitation laboratory and workshop facility to support the sector. The Center"s laboratories (physical, chemical and microbiological labs) are equipped for water quality testing, analysis of construction materials, and demonstration of WASH technologies. By operating as a central lab, NWSSRICDC helps ensure drinking water quality standards are met and provides services like testing of pipes, pumps, filters, and other materials used in water and sanitation projects. The Center also offers technical advisory services and consultancy support on design, operation, and maintenance of water supply and sewerage systems when requested.
• Sector Coordination and Networking: Playing a key role in partnership development and networking within the WASH sector. NWSSRICDC coordinates with government ministries, provincial and local governments, educational institutions, NGOs/INGOs, and international agencies to harmonize capacity development efforts. It frequently hosts or facilitates sectoral workshops, conferences (like WaSH Expo), and knowledge-sharing events to bring stakeholders together. Through the Water Operators Partnership and other collaborative programs, the Center has gained international recognition (e.g., receiving the Water Link Award in 2015 for its outstanding work in twinning partnerships between water utilities. These collaborations enable exchange of expertise and support Nepal"s commitment to global WASH goals.
• Policy Support and Advocacy: Contributing to policy formulation and standards setting by leveraging its research and field experience. The Center provides evidence-based recommendations to the Ministry of Water Supply and relevant authorities for improving WASH policies, strategies, and technical norms. It actively participated in developing national standards such as the National Water Quality Standards and frameworks for Total Sanitation. By documenting lessons learned from the field and pilot projects, NWSSRICDC advocates for innovative and inclusive practices in the national WASH agenda.
• Continued Professional Development: NWSSRICDC also focuses on the continuous professional development of individuals in the sector. It offers refresher trainings, mentorship, and even consultative services to WASH professionals. The Center is authorized (through government-approved procedures) to generate and mobilize resources by conducting trainings, seminars, research, and providing consultancy services on a cost-recovery or sponsored basis. This enables a sustainable model where the Center can expand its services and maintain quality by reinvesting in its human resources and facilities. Ultimately, all these efforts align with the Center"s core mandate of capacity development, fostering innovation, and ensuring that Nepal"s water supply and sanitation services are managed by competent, well-informed, and forward-looking professionals.