Third Cohort of SNGP Fellows Graduate

On March 21, 2025, the Subnational Governance Program (SNGP) hosted a graduation ceremony for the third cohort of SNGP Fellows, marking the successful completion of their yearlong fellowship and celebrating their accomplishments. Launched in 2021, the fellowship empowers young individuals from marginalized communities by immersing them in local governance processes. Through placements in various sections and ward offices across seven municipalities, the fellows actively contributed to service delivery while gaining practical experience in government operations and developing leadership and professional skills.

During the ceremony, the fellows shared how the program helped them build technical competencies, deepen their understanding of governance, and strengthen their confidence and networks with municipal officials. They described their roles in bridging information gaps within their communities—raising awareness about municipal services, administrative procedures, and available programs and grants—while encouraging citizens’ participation in local governance planning. Many fellows proudly shared that the program helped them clarify their career goals, with several already securing positions in municipalities, NGOs, and private organizations.

Her Excellency Leanne Johnston, the Australian Ambassador to Nepal, addressed the graduates with heartfelt congratulations. She commended their courage in speaking publicly, facilitating meetings, and representing their communities. Ambassador Johnston expressed how humbling it was to witness the fellows mastering technical skills such as email and Microsoft Office – tools often taken for granted in digitally advanced countries. She praised their commitment to learning about budget management and resource allocation, and their dedication to applying this knowledge to advocate for their communities. “This is what governance is about—improving people’s lives,” she remarked. Ambassador Johnston concluded by expressing pride in Australia’s partnership with the program and shared how she aspires to see the fellows emerge as future mayors and ward leaders.