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Global Expertise, Local Impact - 30 Years of Senior Expert Contact Programme in Nepal

Nepal
Shradha Giri09.12.2024
Kathmandu, 6th December 2024 — Swisscontact celebrated the 30th anniversary of its Senior Expert Contact (SEC) global programme in Nepal, reaffirming its position as a partner in Nepal’s economic development. At a milestone event held at Hotel Yak & Yeti, Swisscontact brought together industry leaders and tourism innovators to reflect on the programme’s profound impact and chart a path forward for a greener, more inclusive tourism sector.
"Her Excellency Dr. Danielle Meuwly, Swiss Ambassador to Nepal, opened the event by underscoring Switzerland's enduring partnership with Nepal. Small and medium enterprises are truly the backbone, paving the way for a vibrant and sustainable future. This is why Swiss Cooperation has prioritised tourism as a key area of support, recognising its capacity to drive inclusive economic growth and create local employment opportunities. Ambassador Meuwly said."
Her Excellency Dr. Danielle Meuwly, Swiss Ambassador to Nepal

Sustainable Tourism in Focus

Nepal is moving toward sustainable tourism, with industry leaders working to create a greener and more inclusive future. Over the last 30 years, the SEC programme has played a key role in this change by supporting local businesses with expert advice and innovative ideas. This event provided an opportunity to look back on the programme's impact and discussed on making Nepal a top green tourism destination in the world.

The event’s centerpiece was a panel discussion titled “Sustainable Tourism: Celebrating 30 Years of Senior Expert Contact,” moderated by Mr. Beni Lang, Swisscontact’s Director of Global Programmes. The panel brought together distinguished personalities from the tourism sector, including Mr. Khem Lakai, a tourism entrepreneur, Ms. Ranu Shah, Senior Manager at the Nepal Tourism Board, and Ms. Jen Lalchan, Proprietor, Dorje’s Resort and Spa, Pokhara. Together, the experts reflected on SEC’s contributions to fostering greener tourism practices and collaborative strategies for branding Nepal as a global green destination.

Moderator Beni Lang with the panelists from left, Ms. Ranu Shah, Mr. Khem Lakai, Ms. Jen Lalchan
"SEC experts have fundamentally shaped our approach to sustainability,” remarked Mr. Lakai. “Their mentorship has enabled us to implement practices that benefit not just our businesses but also the communities and environments we operate in. Echoing this sentiment, Ms. Shah emphasised the importance of partnerships in enhancing Nepal’s global visibility, stating, “Positioning Nepal as a green destination on the global stage requires collective effort commitment and a shared vision from the government, NTB and private sectors."

Tangible Impacts of SEC

The event also featured an exhibition of SEC-supported innovations, showcasing products from hospitality and tourism industries—each a testament to how the programme’s tailored expertise has enabled local entrepreneurs to grow. These enterprises not only contribute to Nepal’s tourism industry but also reflect the broader economic impact of SEC’s initiatives.

Since 1994, SEC programme has supported and built a network of 550 SMEs and institutions in Nepal, offering critical support to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across sectors, with a focus on the tourism sector. These initiatives have improved operational efficiency, accelerated technological adoption, created over 4,700 jobs, and boosted SME turnover by up to 36 million CHF (NPR 6.9 billion) in 138 institutions in Nepal.

Ambassador Meuwly visiting the Khetipati Organics's booth. Khetipati Organics received support from NAMPD project and the SEC expert to diversify avocados and other fruits.

A Commitment to Sustainable Growth

Swisscontact’s Director of Global Programmes, Mr. Lang, concluded the event by reflecting on the SEC’s 30-year legacy. “The SEC programme is a powerful example of how expertise and local partnerships can create lasting impact. Our journey in Nepal exemplifies Swisscontact’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development, and we look forward to building on this legacy.”

Swisscontact believes that sustainable development happens when local businesses are supported with expert guidance, innovative ideas, and teamwork. As Swisscontact celebrates this milestone, the organisation continues to champion innovative solutions for Nepal’s development, supported by Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation SDC and Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). With its proven track record and forward-looking vision, Swisscontact is poised to lead the way in promoting sustainable tourism and inclusive growth in Nepal for years to come.

For more information about the SEC programme, visit www.seniorexpertcontact.org

Panelists with the Swiss Ambassador and the senior team members from Swisscontact
30 years of Senior Expert Contact Programme in Nepal
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Global Expertise, Local Impact - summary.pdf
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