8th December 2024, Kathmandu
Ncell Foundation, Saathi, and Zonta Club Kathmandu have launched the Orange the Schools Campaign to advance their shared commitment to ending gender-based violence.
Ncell Saathi Zonta Club Campaign
As part of the global Zonta Says NO campaign and the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the ‘Orange the Schools’ campaign runs from 26 November to 10 December, reaching over 1500 students across 12 government and private schools throughout the Kathmandu Valley
The campaign aims to raise awareness among students and teachers about the prevalence of gender-based violence, harmful practices such as child marriage, and cyberbullying, and the importance of taking action to promote safe and equitable environments.
“Gender-based violence is a global crisis that violates basic human rights and hinders progress toward gender equality. Factors such as poverty, discrimination, and climate change further exacerbate the vulnerabilities faced by women and girls. ‘Orange the Schools’ is a special campaign aimed at creating awareness in schools and encouraging collective action to address these issues and build safer communities. Empowering youth is crucial to breaking the silence, educating for change, and building a future free from violence,” says Bina Rana, President of the Zonta Club of Kathmandu.
Bishakha Lakshmi Khadka, Head of Corporate Communications and CSR at Ncell expressing her thoughts said “Orange the School’ campaign has been instrumental in highlighting the importance of awareness and dialogue on gender-based violence. By instilling accurate information and values of equality in young minds early, we can lay the foundation for a violence-free society. In today’s evolving context and the increasing reach of technology, addressing critical issues like cyber security and data privacy is essential to mitigate the negative impacts on vulnerable segments. We are proud to be part of this campaign, and we firmly believe that our collective efforts will create a lasting impact.”
Through presentations and video screenings on topics such as child marriage, cyber security, and discussions on domestic violence, a team of speakers from Zonta Club Kathmandu, Saathi, and Ncell Foundation is engaging with the students and teachers from the participating schools to foster understanding and advocacy on these important topics. The interactive sessions facilitate important conversations and inspire active participation in efforts to end gender-based violence.
“Zonta Club Kathmandu, in partnership with Saathi and Ncell Foundation, has combined our resources and expertise to maximize the campaign’s reach and impact. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the participating schools, principals, teachers, and students for their enthusiasm and support. With collective efforts, we can break the silence, inspire change, and build a future where women and children can thrive in safety and dignity,” says Shreeyukta Thapaliya, Chair of the Violence Against Women Committee of Zonta Club Kathmandu.
About Ncell Foundation
The Ncell Foundation stands as a beacon of hope and progress for Nepal, driven by an unwavering commitment to uplift and empower every segment of society. Our mission is to ensure that no one is left behind, actively working towards creating inclusive and sustainable development opportunities across the country.
About Saathi
Saathi is a non-governmental organization established in 1992 to address the different forms of violence and discrimination faced by Nepali women and girls. It was the first organization that was instrumental in drawing significant national attention to domestic violence in Nepal as an area requiring urgent attention and intervention to break the silence that impacts the lives of many marginalized women and girls.
It has persistently continued its crusade for creating a safe and violence-free society where women and children can live with respect and dignity.
About Zonta Club of Kathmandu:
Zonta Club Kathmandu chartered in 2012 under Zonta International, unites 61 professionals from diverse fields to advocate for a better future for women and girls through the emphasis on gender equality, education, and an end to child marriage and gender-based violence. Its programs are supported by donations and fundraising efforts.
About the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence
The 16 Days of Activism is an annual international campaign that runs from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10 December (International Human Rights Day).
This global initiative aims to raise awareness, drive policy changes, and mobilize communities to combat GBV. Millions of individuals, organizations, and governments participate worldwide in this campaign to foster a world free from violence.
For more: Ncell Saathi Zonta Club Campaign