KAILALI: The Sunpal Community Forest Users Group in Gauriganga Municipality-7, Kailali, has provided free 45-day driving training to 22 underprivileged youths.
The training program, conducted as part of the group’s annual plan, aimed to promote employment and support livelihoods.
According to group chairperson Ram Bahadur Kami, the initiative aligns with the Forest Act, 2076 BS, which mandates allocating a portion of community forest income for programs benefiting underprivileged groups and broader community development, in addition to forest conservation.
The training was conducted in technical partnership with the Manakamana Driving Center, Masuriya. A certificate distribution program was organized today to mark the completion of the course.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Bishwaraj Pandit, Senior Forest Officer at the Sub-Division Forest Office in Masuriya, praised the initiative.
He noted that community forests play a vital role in both conservation and socio-economic development and encouraged other groups to emulate such efforts.
Ward No. 7 Chairperson Asharam Chaudhary expressed that skill-based training like this helps youth become self-reliant and entrepreneurial. He also pledged coordination with local authorities to extend necessary support for similar initiatives.
Nain Bahadur Bista, manager and trainer at Manakamana Driving Center, stated that the training had high impact and effectiveness. Over the 225-hour program, participants received theoretical instruction, practical trial sessions, and preparation for the driving license examination.
Of the 18 trainees who sat for the written license exam, 17 passed. Five have already cleared the practical trial and obtained their driving licenses, while the rest are in the process.
In addition to driving training, the community forest group is also running other skill-oriented programs, including plumbing, sewing, and beautician training.
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