Local Roots, Global Reach: July Reflections

As always, I believe in staying connected and transparent about the work we’re doing, whether in Tanahun (my constituency), on the national stage, or in international forums. July was a month of listening, engaging, and pushing for progress across key areas like education, economic reform, and public accountability. Here’s a quick snapshot of the month’s highlights, reflections, and ongoing efforts.

This July, we completed the first annual review of the School Reform Program. Soon after being elected as Member of Parliament, a new pilot program in the education sector was launched in partnership with United World Schools (UWS) across 10 schools. With generous support from Surya Nepal, the initiative aimed to create an inviting learning environment through painting and renovation efforts that encourage children to attend school and engage in learning. The program will gradually be expanded to cover all municipalities within Tanahun-1.

As part of this broader effort, we also launched the “Dignified Teachers for Quality School Education” campaign. The goal is to strengthen student learning by empowering motivated, dedicated, creative, qualified, trained, and well-equipped teachers. To sustain impact, we are committed to mobilizing additional resources to address the critical needs identified by teachers, school management committees, and parents.

I’m grateful for the strong collaboration among teachers, school management committees, parents, and local governments. Classrooms are cleaner, learning environments are improving, and community ownership is growing.

During my recent visit to Biratnagar, I had the opportunity to participate in a dynamic policy dialogue organized by the Chamber of Industries Morang. 

The discussion focused on RSP’s evolving economic vision and its relevance for Nepal’s industrial future. It was heartening to hear directly from local entrepreneurs about the challenges they face and the reforms they hope to see. I was joined by fellow MP Manish Jha, and together we reaffirmed our commitment to fostering a more enabling environment for private sector growth and innovation.

I was recently invited to speak at a regional webinar hosted by the Asia Foundation, “Crisis or Catalyst? Asia’s Take on the Future of Aid and Development Cooperation.” 

It was a timely discussion on how countries like Nepal and others across Asia are reshaping the future of development aid, moving from passive recipients to proactive partners. I shared Nepal’s own development experience, the need for more tailored cooperation, and why reforming the global aid architecture is both urgent and possible.

In recent weeks, the Rastriya Swatantra Party has intensified its national signature campaign. It is an initiative aimed at building grassroots awareness for political accountability and structural reform. RSP volunteers and leaders have been engaging citizens directly, collecting signatures in support of the party’s reform agenda. The strong public response reflects growing disillusionment with the status quo and a collective appetite for change.

• This newsletter is prepared by The Office of Swarnim Wagle, MP.