Message from the Executive Director

Welcome to the National Water Supply and Sanitation Research, Innovation, and Capacity Development Centre (Research and Capacity Development Centre). Over the past three decades, the central human resource development unit, which has played a key role in enhancing the capacities of Nepal"s water supply and sanitation (WASH) sector workforce, has also become the foundation of this centre. Established initially in 1983 as a general human resource development program and formalized in 1987 as a departmental training centre, this institution has evolved over time to meet the country"s changing needs. Under the federal structure, the centre now operates under the Ministry of Water Supply with additional responsibilities for research and innovation. We embrace this opportunity and reaffirm our commitment to addressing emerging challenges in Nepal"s WASH sector.

Nepal has achieved notable progress in expanding access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation services. However, to sustain these achievements and ensure services reach all citizens with quality, continuous capacity development and innovative solutions are required. The Research and Capacity Development Centre is established with this objective in mind, aiming not only to produce skilled human resources in the WASH sector but also to promote innovative thinking and technologies. Our ISO 9001:2015 certification reflects both the quality and integrity of every program and activity and the dedication of our team, fostering trust in the centre.

As Executive Director, I envision developing this centre as a national hub for knowledge and innovation, bringing together federal government officials, engineers, development partners, academic practitioners, and community leaders with a shared purpose. Ensuring safe water and sustainable sanitation for every Nepali will remain our primary goal. Our training programs continuously support capacity enhancement for local governments and communities under the new federal structure, strengthening skills from planning to implementation and management at the local level. Likewise, the centre"s research initiatives will explore context-appropriate new technologies and methodologies, facilitating solutions for challenges ranging from climate-resilient water supply systems to effective wastewater management.

I am proud of the dedicated and hardworking team at the Research and Capacity Development Centre, whose expertise and commitment drive our mission forward. We are grateful for the continuous collaboration of national and international organizations, without which achieving our goals would not be possible. In the coming days, we aim to further strengthen these partnerships, adopt digital learning platforms, and expand our reach to even the remotest regions, ensuring no community or area is deprived of capacity-building opportunities.

Finally, I extend heartfelt gratitude to all visitors, stakeholders, and trainees who form an integral part of this journey. I invite you to explore the centre"s resources and facilities and request your continued support in our future endeavors. Let us all work together to achieve the national goal of providing safe water and sanitation services to every community and, in doing so, build a healthier and prosperous future. Thank you for the trust you have shown in the Research and Capacity Development Centre. Our commitment to excellence and innovation in the WASH sector remains unwavering.

Thank you!

(Executive Director, National Water Supply and Sanitation Research, Innovation, and Capacity Development Centre, Nagarkot, Bhaktapur)

2025/09/07