Pulchowk, Kathmandu—The Hult Prize, an annual global competition designed to inspire young minds to tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges, is creating a significant impact at the Pulchowk Campus. For 2025, the campus has curated an exciting calendar of events centered around the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A recent highlight was an impactful event conducted at the Center for Disabled Children Assistance (CDCA) in Kapan, leaving a lasting impression on everyone involved.
The Center for Disabled Children Assistance (CDCA), established in 2006 and located in Budhanilkantha-11, Kathmandu, is a non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to the education and skill development of children with disabilities. CDCA provides comprehensive care, including accommodation, education, and essential services. Moreover, the center distributes wheelchairs and other disability aids, offers free medical treatment, and provides scholarships for financially disadvantaged children.
Dendi Sherpa, the dedicated chairman of CDCA, has been instrumental in establishing this vital support platform for the community. His unwavering commitment to social work and campaigns to prevent disabilities have brought about meaningful change, illustrating how determination can positively transform lives.
On December 7 (Saturday), to mark International Disability Day, the Hult Prize at IOE, Pulchowk Campus organized a special event for differently-abled students from CDCA. Sixteen students, aged between six and twenty years, participated in the event. In collaboration with the Rotaract Club of KIST Medical College, the initiative included free health checkups, consultations, and medications to ensure the well-being of the students. Sahayatri, a supporting partner, provided medical kits containing medicines, masks, sanitizers, ointments, oral rehydration solutions, and mosquito-repellent creams. Sahayatri is a social enterprise focused on global health literacy, founded by Sareesha Shrestha and co-founded by Saisha Shrestha.
The event provided a platform for the students to share their dreams and talents, showcasing their remarkable resilience. The organizing committee engaged the children in creative and fun activities such as face painting. The day also included the screening of documentaries and informational videos on crucial topics like recognizing good and bad touch, trusting appropriate individuals, and fostering optimism for a brighter future.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, the center’s music teacher joined in, allowing the students to enjoy dancing and singing alongside the organizing committee. A special guest, Chiara Parton, an environmental economist from the Hult Prize team at IOE, Pulchowk Campus, was present to cover the event. She actively engaged with the children, appreciating the initiative and participating in the joyous singing and dancing. The heartfelt emotions expressed by the students through their singing brought smiles to everyone’s faces.
During break time, the students were treated to frozen momo and achar, generously sponsored by Monster Meal, Kathmandu, known for its delightful offerings like hot wings and spicy chicken sandwiches. Heartfelt gratitude goes out to all the supporters and sponsors: Monster Meal, the Rotaract Club of KIST Medical College, Sahayatri Nepal, Bhairav Trade Concern, CDCA Nepal, and the Organizing Committee of the Hult Prize at IOE-Pulchowk Campus. Their contributions made this event a tremendous success, fostering a better world for everyone.
This event served as an eye-opener, emphasizing the urgent need for the government to prioritize inclusive education for children with disabilities. It showcased the collaborative efforts of various organizations working tirelessly for the betterment of these students. Government collaboration with such organizations can significantly enhance the inclusivity of society, marking a step forward in creating a more disability-friendly world.
The event inspired gratitude and empathy, reminding everyone of the importance of appreciating life’s small blessings. For many, these little things may seem ordinary, but for others, they hold immense value. This initiative was a heartfelt effort to create a better, more inclusive world where differently-abled individuals are treated with respect and admiration for their courage and resilience. Together, we can bring about meaningful change and build a brighter future for everyone.
For those interested in supporting or learning more, you can visit the wonderful children of CDCA and explore their official site at https://cdcakapan.org/.
