Vishwo Shrestha, Author at Blind Youth Association Nepal

Background

Blind Youth Association Nepal (BYAN) is an organization established by Blind and Partially Sighted (BPs) Youth of Nepal, with the vision of "BPS people of Nepal enjoying a dignified life in an inclusive society." Currently, BYAN is working in the areas of policy advocacy, education, employment, disaster risk reduction, political participation, and promotion of SRHR of persons with disabilities in general and BPS in particular.

Since 2019 BYAN has been actively engaged in uplifting the status of sexual and reproductive health rights of young persons with disabilities. BYAN under CBM is carrying out a 3- year project named “Action for Change” whose objective that “Persons with disabilities are empowered to exercise their rights and make informed sexual and reproductive choices in a supportive social, institutional and legal environment.

In this regard, Blind Youth Association Nepal (BYAN) is going to make the health institution accessible by making the signages targeted for persons with disabilities. Thus, BYAN announces the call for Expression of Interest (EOI) from experienced and qualified firms/organizations to carry out this assignment. Interested and eligible individuals or organizations/firms are invited to submit their EOI to [email protected] mentioning "Expression of Interest signage development" in the subject line. The final deadline for submitting the EOI is 30th Oct. 2023.

Objective:

The primary objective of this assignment is to make the signages in accessible format targeted for visually impaired, deaf and hard of hearing individuals so that they will have full information regarding the services provided by the health center, the signages are going to be developed through the support of CBM “Action for Change” project.

Scope of Work

The Blind Youth Association Nepal (BYAN) has finalized the names list of the items which needs to be made in the accessible format thus the firm needs to make it in accessible format.

The scope of work may include, but is not limited to, the following tasks:

Develop the signages in large font and braille focused for the visually impaired.
Develop the signages in sign language focused for the deaf and hard and hearing.

Eligibility Criteria:

Interested organizations or individuals should meet the following criteria:

Demonstrated experience in producing signages with sign language interpretation, large font and in braille.
Expertise in SRHR and familiarity with the specific challenges and needs of persons with visual and hearing impairment.
Ability to collaborate effectively with BYAN and relevant stakeholders, including deaf individuals and sign language interpreters.
Strong understanding of accessibility standards and best practices in signages production for visual impaired, deaf and hard of hearing audiences.
Capacity to deliver the project within the agreed timeline and budget.

Service Duration and Location:

The consultant will work in close coordination with the BYAN team. The consultant will be engaged on a daily basis for a maximum of 15 working days. The assignment will begin immediately and must be completed by the end of October 2023.

Submission of Expression of Interest:

Interested organizations or individuals are requested to submit their Expression of Interest (EOI) containing the following information:

Cover Letter
Financial proposal
A brief concept note highlighting the methodological design, including a work plan and quality assurance mechanisms.
The proposal should include the bio-data of the assignment team member(s).

For firms:

Firm Registration & Renewal certificate
Copy of VAT Registration Certificate .
Latest Tax clearance certificate

Selection Process:

The selection of the partner will be based on their experience and the proposed amount for the task.

BYAN reserves the right to select or reject any of the applications. Data or information collected during the task will be kept confidential and shall not be disseminated without BYAN's prior consent.

नेत्रहिन युवा सङ्घ नेपाल दृष्टीसम्बन्धी अपाङ्गता भएका युवाहरूद्वारा स्थापित र सञ्चालित संस्था हो। देशभर दश शाखा रहेको यस संस्थामा हाल पाँच सयभन्दा बढी दृष्टिसम्बन्धी अपाङ्गता भएका युवाहरू आवद्ध छन्। यस संस्थाले अपाङ्गता भएका युवाहरूको शिक्षा, यौन तथा प्रजनन् स्वास्थ्य, रोजगारी, राजनितिक सहभागिता, क्षमता विकासलगायत विभिन्न क्षेत्रमा कार्य गर्दै आइरहेको छ।

यसै सन्दर्भमा यस संस्थाले अपाङ्गता भएका युवाको राज्नीतिक सचेतना अभिव्रिद्धि गर्दै प्रजातन्त्र, संसद तथा संसदीय राज्नीति, मानवअधिकार र विद्यमान अपाङ्गता अधिकारका सम्बन्धमा उनीहरूलाई प्रशिक्षित गरी उल्लिखित विषयमा केन्द्रित रही नमुना संसद अभ्यास सञ्चालन गर्न गइरहेको हुँदा सो प्रयोजनका निम्ति देशबरीबाट इक्षुक +२ तह वा सो भन्दा माथिल्लो तहमा अध्ययनरत विभिन्न प्रकारका अपाङ्गता भएका युवाहरूलाई यस फारममार्फत आफ्नो दर्खास्त पेस गर्न आह्वान गरिन्छ।

आफ्नो सहजताबमोजिम यहाँले यस फारममा माग गरिएका विवरन नेपाली, अङ्ग्रेजी तथा रोमनाइज्ड् नेपालीमा समेत उल्लेख गर्न सक्नु हुनेछ। यस फारम भर्ने क्रममा कुनै कठिनाइ उत्पन्न भएमा वा कार्यक्रमसंग सम्बन्धित कुनै जिज्ञासा रहेको खन्डमा देहायको व्यक्तिलाई निम्न माध्यममार्फत सम्पर्क गर्न सक्नु हुनेछ।

सम्पर्क व्यक्ति: जिवन आचार्य,

सम्पर्क नम्बर: ९८६१२९२१२०

इ-मेल: [email protected]

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdS-chQNgMdre08CslhNKgdz3LHhUKKKlQ8Pyr0jE9wv81TvQ/formResponse

Blind Youth Association Nepal (BYAN) marked the International Youth Day 2023 with a series of impactful events, reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity, awareness, and advocacy. In Surkhet, an orator competition at Shikhar Secondary School engaged 80 participants, promoting awareness about sexual and reproductive health rights. Anu Singh emerged as the winner, contributing to vital discussions on youth's role in SRHR. BYAN Bara, in collaboration with local partners, orchestrated a rally and blood donation program, uniting 69 diverse participants to champion sustainable skills. Noteworthy figures, including Mayor Rajan Paudel, participated in discussions that showcased BYAN's dedication to social service. The collaboration with the National Youth Council led to a rally uniting 155 individuals, including those with disabilities, underlining BYAN's commitment to advocacy. The Kathmandu Valley Chapter hosted a poetry competition, seamlessly blending physical and virtual participation, celebrating creativity and inclusivity. The winners, both with and without disabilities, demonstrated the power of harmony in embracing differences. These celebrations underscore BYAN's enduring efforts in empowering and uplifting the youth, bridging gaps, and fostering positive transformation. Learn more about our impactful initiatives and their inspiring outcomes on our website. Together, let's continue shaping a more inclusive and promising future for all.

Blind Youth Association Nepal (BYAN) is a national NGO established and run by the Blind and Partially Sighted (BPS) youth of Nepal. As a rights-based organization, BYAN plays a proactive role in the formulation, amendment and implementation of BPS related legal provisions, and in organizing and capacity-building of BPS youth across the country. BYAN works in collaboration with Government, Civil society organizations, Persons with disabilities and their networks. BYAN is currently recruiting a qualified and experienced candidate for the position of Project Officer and Finance Assistant based in kathmandu for its project "Encourage and facilitate the active involvement of young people with disabilities in mainstream youth movements, political parties, and local planning processes in Nepal" funded by EUROPEAN PARTNERSHIP FOR DEMOCRACY via Youth Democracy Cohert.

Basic Job Information

Job Category	:	General Mgmt. / Administration / Operations
Job Level	:	Mid Level
No. of Vacancy/s	:	[ 1 ]
Employment Type	:	Full Time
Job Location	:	Kathmandu
Offered Salary	:	Negotiable
Apply Before(Deadline)	:	Aug. 10, 2023 23:55

Job Specification

Education Level	:	Under Graduate (Bachelor)
Experience Required	:	More than or equal to 2 years

Other Specification

A Bachelor’s degree in public policy, Political science or a related field in Social Science, with at least one year of relevant work experience.
Bachelors degree running and a minimum of two years of experience working on projects and possessing a technical understanding of youth, disability, civic engagement and youth movement is mandatory.
A sound understanding of Federal, Provincial, and Local laws and policies related to democracy and democratic engagement is essential, as well as a good knowledge of National and International laws relating to disability, such as UNCRPD, SDG, Disability Rights Act, Inclusive Education Policy, and the Constitution of Nepal.
Proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, is necessary.
The ideal candidate should be energetic, proactive, and willing to take risks with a desire to continuously learn. Effective communication and collaboration skills with individuals from diverse backgrounds is also crucial.
Fluency in English and Nepali is required. Knowledge of sign language is preferred.
Prior experience working with diverse groups, including Youth and individuals with disabilities, is an added advantage.

Job Description

The Project Officer for "Encourage and facilitate the active involvement of young people with disabilities in mainstream youth movements, political parties, and local planning processes in Nepal" will be responsible for coordinating and implementing the project in Kathmandu, Morang, Kaski and Kailali. The successful candidate will work closely with the Director, project partners and stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and community groups, to ensure that the project is implemented on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Project Coordination: Coordinate the implementation of the "Encourage and facilitate the active involvement of young people with disabilities in mainstream youth movements, political parties, and local planning processes in Nepal" project, including the development of work plans, budgets, and monitoring and evaluation frameworks.
Partnership Management: Manage project partners and stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, political parties, organizations of persons with disabilities, and community groups.
Stakeholder Relations: Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, donors, and other bilateral/multilateral partners.
Documentation: Develop and maintain project documentation, including work plans, budgets, and reports. Ensure project activities align with the organization's mission and values.
MEAL: Properly monitor project activities in both project districts and provide technical assistance as needed to field assistants, project partners, and stakeholders. Track down the Evaluation and learning from the project.
Possess the flexibility to work with all 10 types of disabilities and possess the skills for proper communication.
Government Coordination: Lead the project and coordinate with the government, particularly with the ECN, Rural/Municipalities RMCs, Youth leaders, political parties and Civil Society Organizations. Ensure activities align with the European partnership for Democracy commitments, Menu of possible commitments by the Democracy Cohort on youth political and civic engagement.
IEC Materials: Ensure the design and dissemination of youth political and civic engagement related IEC materials in accessible formats for awareness and advocacy.
Training and Orientation: Design and conduct youth political and civic engagement related training and orientation sessions and ensure the quality of training and counseling for individuals with disabilities and stakeholders for ensuring the participation of person s with disabilities in planning process.
Disability Inclusiveness: Coordinate with the government agencies, civil society organizations, and community groups, Organisation of persons with disabilities to ensure participation of youth with disabilities in mainstream movements .
Media Engagement: Work closely with the media to bring positive change on disability issues related to youth political and civic engagement.
Reporting: Ensure proper documentation and timely reporting.

Applying Procedure

Interested candidates fitting above criteria are kindly requested to apply along with their CV and Cover Letter and Expected salary at [email protected] mentioning the position you are applying in the subject line by 10th August, 2023.

(Phone enquiry will not be entertained.)

BYAN Promotes inclusion across gender, caste, ethnicity, Dalits and disability where the persons with disabilities and LGBTIQ+ are highly encouraged to apply.

Only shortlisted candidates will be called for further process. The organization reserves the right to reject any/all applications without assigning any reasons.

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Basic Job Information

Job Category	:	Accounting / Finance
Job Level	:	Mid Level
No. of Vacancy/s	:	[ 1 ]
Employment Type	:	Full Time
Job Location	:	Kathmandu
Offered Salary	:	Negotiable
Apply Before(Deadline)	:	Aug. 10, 2023 23:55 (1 week, 3 days from now)

Job Specification

Education Level	:	Under Graduate (Bachelor)
Experience Required	:	Less than or equal to 1 year

Other Specification

Education: Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field or Bachelor’s degree running with two years of experience in the above-mentioned field.
Experience: Proven work experience in finance or accounting, preferably in a non-profit setting.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in financial software and tools such as Tally ERP 9, Microsoft Excel, and other accounting software.
Financial Knowledge: Strong understanding of financial principles, regulations, and best practices.
Attention to Detail: Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and financial reporting.
Communication Skills: Effective written and verbal communication skills both in English and Nepali and the ability to work in a team-oriented environment.
Passion for the Mission: Demonstrated commitment to the organization's mission and values.
Non-Profit Knowledge: Familiarity with non-profit financial management is a plus.

Job Description

The Finance Assistant for "Encourage and facilitate the active involvement of young people with disabilities in mainstream youth movements, political parties, and local planning processes in Nepal" will support the financial operations of the organisation. This position reports directly to the Finance Officer and Director and involves in handling various financial tasks, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, financial reporting , budgeting and payroll processing.

Responsibilities:

Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable: Process and record payments, invoices, and expenses accurately and in a timely manner. Maintain proper documentation and reconciliation of accounts.
Financial Records Management: Ensure accurate and up-to-date financial records are maintained, including receipts, invoices, and other financial documents.
Financial Reporting: Assist in preparing regular financial reports, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Collaborate with the Finance Manager to analyze financial data and provide insights for decision-making.
Budgeting and Forecasting: Assist in the development and monitoring of annual budgets. Contribute to financial forecasting and variance analysis to support organizational planning and financial management.
Payroll Processing: Assist in processing payroll and ensure compliance with relevant laws, tax regulations, and internal policies. Maintain payroll records and address any employee payroll-related inquiries.
Bank Reconciliation: Monitor and reconcile bank statements and financial transactions to ensure accuracy and completeness.
Grant and Funding Support: Collaborate with the finance team in preparing financial information for grant proposals and funding reports. Ensure compliance with donor requirements and grant restrictions.
Financial Compliance: Assist in ensuring the organization complies with financial regulations, accounting principles, and internal policies.
Financial Support: Provide support to staff and stakeholders regarding financial matters, explaining financial processes, and addressing inquiries.
Other Duties: Assist in other finance-related tasks, peers with disabilities as assigned by the Finance Officer to support the overall financial health of the organization.

Applying Procedure

(Phone enquiry will not be entertained.)

BYAN Promotes inclusion across gender, caste, ethnicity, Dalits and disability where the persons with disabilities and LGBTIQ+ are highly encouraged to apply.

Only shortlisted candidates will be called for further process. The organization reserves the right to reject any/all applications without assigning any reasons.

The Blind Youth Association Nepal successfully conducted an accessibility/inclusion audit of various healthcare institutions in different districts.We are pleased to share that the audit covered the following healthcare facilities: Gokarneshwor Municipal Hospital, Gokarnehwor Municipality. Budanilkantha Health Post, Budanilkantha Municipality. Ramghat Primary Health Center (PHC), Kathmandu Metropolitan City. Urban Health Promotion Centre, Dumarwana, Jeetpur Simara Sub Metropolitan City. Urban Health Promotion Centre, Balirampur, Kalaiya Sub Metropolitan City. Prastoka Health Post, Harpur, Jeetpur Simara Sub Metropolitan City. Birendranagar Municipal Hospital, Birendranagar-7, Health Post Chhinchu, Bheriganga-12 Ghumkhare Health Post, Gurbhakot-11The aim of this initiative was to assess the accessibility and inclusion perspectives of persons with disabilities when accessing healthcare services in these government health institutions.We would like to express our gratitude to CBM for their support, the National Federation of the Disabled Nepal (NFDN) for providing the accessibility checklist, and the Center for Mental Health and Counselling Nepal for translating the checklist into English.By conducting these audits and involving individuals with disabilities, we are working towards creating a more inclusive healthcare system that meets the needs of all members of our society.Together, let's build a more accessible and inclusive Nepal!#AccessibilityAudit #InclusionMatters #HealthcareForAll #BYAN #blindyouthassociationnepal

Blind Youth Association Nepal successfully conducted a five-day capacity building training on Comprehensive Sexuality Education for young people with disabilities from May 25th to 29th, 2023, at Hotel Yellow Pagoda in Kathmandu. The training was conducted under the Right Here Right Now 2 (RHRN2) project.

A total of 26 participants took part in the training, including 9 with visual impairment, 9 who are deaf, 6 with physical disabilities, and 2 adolescents without disabilities. The participants came from five different schools: Khagendra Newlife Special Education Secondary School in Jorpati, SOS Children's Village in Jorpati, Central Deaf School in Naxal, Namuna Machhindra Secondary School in Lagankhel, and Laboratory School in Kirtipur. Mr. Sagar Budhathoki facilitated the training.

The training covered various topics, including the concepts and principles of CSE, love and relationships, culture, values, rights and responsibilities, gender and sexuality, violence prevention and personal safety, menstrual hygiene management, adolescent development, reproductive organs, sexual and reproductive health and rights, and HIV/AIDS.

The closing ceremony was chaired by Mr. Kaladhar Bhandari, the president of Blind Youth Association Nepal. Attendees at the closing ceremony included Mr. Rajendra Maharjan, the National Coordinator of Right Here Right Now 2 Nepal; Mr. Ragav Dawadi, the principal of Khagendra Newlife Special Education Secondary School; Mrs. Samita Shakya, the resource teacher of Laboratory School; and Mr. Roshan Sapkota, the Village Counselor of SOS Children's Village.

Background

Blind Youth Association Nepal (BYAN) is an organization established by Blind and Partially Sighted (BPs) Youth of Nepal, with the vision of "BPS people of Nepal enjoying a dignified life in an inclusive society." Currently, BYAN is working in the areas of policy advocacy, education, employment, disaster risk reduction, political participation, and promotion of SRHR of persons with disabilities in general and BPS in particular.

BYAN is currently carrying out a Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) related project under Right Here Right Now 2 (RHRN2). One of its major outcomes is to ensure that young people with disabilities are empowered to make their decisions related to sexuality, voice their needs, and claim their rights. In order to achieve this outcome, BYAN has focused on developing CSE-related Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials in an accessible version.

Deaf individuals, who rely solely on sign language for communication, face numerous challenges in accessing SRHR and CSE-related services and information. Due to the lack of sign language interpreters and limited knowledge of basic sign language among service providers, deaf people encounter significant barriers when trying to access information and services. In this context, BYAN intends to develop a short video on basic sign language for SRHR information. Thus, BYAN announces the call for Expression of Interest (EOI) from experienced and qualified experts to carry out this assignment. Interested and eligible individuals or organizations are invited to submit their EOI to [email protected] CC to [email protected], mentioning "Expression of Interest for the Development of a Short Video on Basic Sign Language for SRHR Information" in the subject line: Address: [Email Address] The final deadline for submitting the EOI is Sunday, 4th June 2023.

Objective:

The primary objective of this project is to create an inclusive resource that compiles all the signs of SRHR related terms and information while communicating through sign language. Additionally, the video aims to help service providers effectively communicate with deaf individuals in the absence of sign language interpreters.

Scope of Work:

The selected partner will be responsible for the following activities: 1.

Compiling the signs: Collaborate with BYAN's team and SRHR experts to collect and compile signs related to SRHR terms and information. The content should be suitable for sign language interpretation and ensure effective communication with deaf and hard of hearing individuals. 2.
Video Production: Utilize creative and technical expertise to produce a high-quality short video with sign language interpretations. The video should be engaging, visually appealing, and accessible to deaf and hard of hearing individuals.
Collaboration with Deaf Individuals and Experts: Involve deaf individuals, sign language interpreters, and other relevant stakeholders throughout the development process to ensure the video's authenticity, effectiveness, and resonance with its intended audience.
Testing and Feedback: Conduct pilot testing with deaf and hard of hearing individuals to gather feedback and make necessary improvements to the video before finalization.
Distribution and Promotion: Develop a comprehensive distribution strategy to effectively reach the target audience. This may involve partnering with relevant organizations, utilizing digital platforms, and leveraging BYAN's networks to ensure maximum impact and reach.

Eligibility Criteria:

Interested organizations or individuals should meet the following criteria:

Demonstrated experience in producing videos with sign language interpretation for deaf and hard of hearing individuals.
Expertise in SRHR and familiarity with the specific challenges and needs of deaf and hard of hearing individuals in accessing SRHR information.
Ability to collaborate effectively with BYAN and relevant stakeholders, including deaf individuals and sign language interpreters.
Strong understanding of accessibility standards and best practices in video production for deaf and hard of hearing audiences.
Capacity to deliver the project within the agreed timeline and budget.

Service Duration and Location:

Submission of Expression of Interest:

Interested organizations or individuals are requested to submit their Expression of Interest (EOI) containing the following information:

Cover Letter
Financial proposal
A brief concept note highlighting the methodological design, including a work plan and quality assurance mechanisms.
The proposal should include the bio-data of the assignment team member(s).

For firms:

Firm Registration & Renewal certificate
Copy of VAT Registration Certificate 7.
Latest Tax clearance certificate

Selection Process:

The selection of the partner will be based on their experience and the proposed amount for the task.

Blind Youth Association Nepal, in collaboration with the Family Welfare Division, successfully organized a policy dialogue on Disability Inclusive Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) on April 30th, 2023, at Alfa House Banquet in Buddhanagar, New Baneshwar. The event was attended by more than 70 participants.

During the dialogue, three papers were presented. The first paper, presented by Dr. Baburam Dhungana, the director of the Curriculum Development Center (CDC), focused on the access of young people with disabilities in CSE. He highlighted the situation of children with disabilities, legal provisions, integration of CSE in the school curriculum, gaps and challenges, and the way forward to ensure access for young people with disabilities in CSE.

The second paper, presented by Mrs. Kabita Aryal, the department head of the Family Welfare Division, focused on the access of youths with disabilities in SRHR. She highlighted legal provisions, major achievements in disability-inclusive SRHR, gaps and challenges to ensure disability-inclusive SRHR, and the way forward.

The final paper, presented by Mr. Punya Bhandari, the consultant hired by BYAN to develop a status paper on CSE and young people with disabilities, focused on the status paper on the access of young people with disabilities in CSE.

After the presentation of the papers, representatives from organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs) shared their concerns and issues, followed by representatives of government agencies who put forth their remarks and commitments. They highlighted potential areas where BYAN/OPDs and government agencies can work collaboratively, while also acknowledging existing structural challenges and gaps to address the issues raised by BYAN and the OPDs.

Mrs. Roshani Devi Karki, the GESI head of the Ministry of Health and Population, gave her closing remarks and vote of thanks. The event was moderated by Mr. Ram Chandra Gaire, the General Secretary of BYAN, and the welcome speech was given by Mrs. Parwati Shrestha, the Secretary of BYAN. Additionally, Mr. Kaladhar Bhandari, the President of BYAN, briefed the attendees on the organization, its ongoing activities, and the major issues faced by children and youths with disabilities in CSE and SRHR. In the event, the representatives of family welfare division (FWD), National Health Education, Information and Communication Center (NHEICC), Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Ministry of Health and Population, Education and Health Department of Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Budhanilkantha and Gokarneshwar Municipality, Bhaktapur Health Office and representatives of CSOs and OPDs were present.

Overall, the event was a success and provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss and address the challenges faced by young people with disabilities in accessing comprehensive sexuality education and sexual and reproductive health and rights.