“Change Begins with Informed Dialogue”: Federalism Awareness and Youth Dialogue Held in Pokhara, Gandaki Youth Federalism Network Formed

Pokhara. With the words “Change begins with informed dialogue” from UNDP Resident Representative Kyoko Yokosuka, a powerful Federalism Awareness and Youth Dialogue was held in Pokhara on Monday.

Young participants from Gandaki Province stepped into the shoes of policymakers through a budget simulation, mapped government responsibilities to improve public services, and designed their own accountability tools. The dialogue, organized under the Provincial and Local Governance Strengthening Programme (PLGSP) supported by the European Union, Norway, and Switzerland, is a core part of UNDP’s commitment to ensuring Nepal’s governance systems are inclusive and responsive.

The event culminated in the drafting of a Provincial Youth Federalism Charter and the formation of a Provincial Youth Federalism Network—a lasting platform for young voices to influence policy. According to organizers, young leaders are not just learning about federalism; they are shaping it. Through simulations and innovation labs, they are creating solutions for a more inclusive and accountable Nepal.