The Support to Schools and Communities in Remote Areas for Pandemic Prevention and Green Recovery (SSPP-GR) Project—a joint initiative of the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)—has significantly strengthened the resilience of 32 community schools in Madhesh Province, benefiting 18,000 students and 7,500 families mainly belonging to marginalized and disaster-vulnerable groups —such as Dalits, ethnic and religious minorities, female-headed households, and persons with disabilities. With an investment of USD 1.55 million, the project enhanced preparedness for pandemics and natural disasters while improving access to quality education.

The formal closing ceremony held yesterday at Shree Madanpur Jamuniya Birnagara (MJB) Secondary School was attended by distinguished dignitaries, including H.E. Mr. Chen Song, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Nepal, and Ms. Kyoko Yokosuka, UNDP Nepal’s Resident Representative. Also present were Mr. Bhrahama Dev Ray, Mayor of Kabilasi Municipality, and numerous school officials, all of whom celebrated the project’s significant contributions to community development.

Speaking at the event, UNDP Nepal Resident Representative Kyoko Yokosuka said, "We are committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment where all children can learn and thrive, regardless of their background." "Stating that supporting 32 schools, 18,000 students—half of them girls—and 7,500 families in just one and a half years is a remarkable achievement, she added, "My sincere gratitude goes to all our partners, including the school administration, the local and provincial government, China Foundation for Rural Development, and special thanks to Ambassador Chen for his continuous leadership and support," she added.

H.E. Mr. Chen Song, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Nepal said, “Education is the foundation of a country's future, and by investing in Nepal’s most asset—its children—we can drive meaningful change." He added, "This project has demonstrated the remarkable impact of collaboration between the Chinese government, UNDP, local governments, and our partners. We deeply appreciate UNDP’s dedication, and China remains a steadfast supporter of the UN system, committed to working alongside UNDP to advance sustainable development and resilience-building efforts.”

Targeted support under the SSPP-GR Project focused on supporting the schools, the parents and the children to be able to continue education during pandemics and at the time of crisis and improve the quality of education. Strategic interventions upgraded classroom learning environments and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities, while also providing essential health protection equipment. These measures have bolstered the capacity of communities to face future crises effectively.

By addressing both immediate educational needs and long-term disaster preparedness, the SSPP-GR Project exemplifies the power of partnership and integrated support. UNDP and its partners remain dedicated to advancing sustainable development and building resilient communities, ensuring that every child and family is equipped to face future challenges.

For more information, please contact:
UNDP Nepal
Monica Upadhyay
Head of Communications
E-mail: monica.upadhyay@undp.org