Grantee	Disability Empowerment Society Nepal
Project Title	Development and implementation of an accessible web based system for recording and assessment of person with disabilities in local government of Nepal (DPARS)
Amount Awarded	USD 30,000
Dates covered by this report:	2023-10-01 to 2024-11-01
Report submission date	2024-11-26
Economies where project was implemented	Nepal
Project leader name	Krishna Maharjan

Project Summary

The Development and Implementation of an Accessible Web-Based System for Recording and Assessment of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Local Government of Nepal (DPARS) project addresses a pressing need for digital transformation in disability services in Nepal’s local governments. Traditional methods of assessing and recording PWDs are outdated, inefficient, and lack the inclusivity required to support PWDs adequately. This project, piloted in Mahalaxmi Municipality of Lalitpur, Nepal, aims to provide an accessible, integrated platform that digitizes the assessment, registration, and issuance of Disability Identity Cards (DICs) for PWDs, enhancing their ability to access government-provided services, job opportunities, and disability incentives.

This project leverages Internet-based solutions to modernize and digitize disability services in Nepal. By creating a centralized, accessible web platform, the project supports local governments in transitioning from outdated, paper-based methods to a digital system, enabling real-time data entry, analysis, and reporting. This shift not only streamlines disability service delivery but also enhances transparency, efficiency, and inclusivity in government operations, contributing to Nepal's Internet-enabled governance and digital equity.

The main goal of this project is to create a comprehensive, user-friendly web-based system that empowers local government entities, like ward offices, to support PWDs effectively. Key activities completed during the project include:

• Conducting extensive field research to define requirements and challenges, ensuring the platform meets the diverse needs of PWDs across Nepal.
• Collaborating with local stakeholders, disability advocacy groups, and government agencies to gather insights and refine the design.
• Developing and testing a fully accessible web platform that adheres to international accessibility standards, promoting usability and inclusivity.

Significant achievements of this period include:

• Completion and deployment of the web-based system, facilitating disability assessment, registration, and DIC issuance in Mahalaxmi Municipality.
• Increased awareness and engagement among local officials, staff, and PWD communities about inclusive practices and accessible technology.
• Endorsement and project approval by the Social Welfare Council (SWC) under the Ministry of Women, Children, and Senior Citizens, enabling system implementation in multiple local government offices.

Key recommendations and lessons learned emphasize the importance of:

• Ongoing collaboration with PWDs and Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) to ensure continued alignment with user needs.
• Developing a robust training program for local government staff to maximize system efficiency and impact.
• Prioritizing data privacy and user security as the system scales to protect PWDs’ sensitive information.

The piloting in Mahalaxmi Municipality was met with positive feedback from local officials and PWD community members, validating the system’s effectiveness in improving access to services and enhancing user experience. Based on the successful pilot, we plan to expand the system across municipalities throughout Nepal, enabling a broader reach and impact. This expansion aims to foster a more inclusive, accessible digital infrastructure that empowers PWDs nationwide. Looking ahead, our goals include scaling the system to additional regions, continuing to enhance accessibility features, and strengthening partnerships with stakeholders to ensure the system’s long-term sustainability and success.

Table of Contents

• Background and Justification
• Project Implementation Narrative
• Project Activities, Deliverables and Indicators
• Project Review and Assessment
• Diversity and Inclusion
• Project Communication
• Project Sustainability
• Project Management
• Project Recommendations and Use of Findings
• Bibliography

Background and Justification

Prior to the inception of our project, local governments in Nepal faced substantial challenges in accurately recording and assessing persons with disabilities (PWDs). The traditional methods were largely paper-based and lacked digital support, making the process labor-intensive, inefficient, and inaccessible for many. This outdated system created numerous gaps in data accuracy, limited the ability to analyze demographic trends among PWDs, and hindered efforts to provide effective, targeted support. Due to these challenges, the PWD population in Nepal often found it difficult to access essential services, including disability incentives, reserved job opportunities, and government-provided assistance. The need for a modern, inclusive, and technology-driven solution was apparent to bridge these service and data gaps.

Previous attempts to address these challenges in Nepal had some success but ultimately fell short. Several initiatives aimed to improve data collection and assessment for PWDs; however, these efforts were hindered by limited funding, minimal stakeholder engagement, and insufficient technical infrastructure. Most of the previous approaches relied on manual data entry or rudimentary digital systems that did not prioritize accessibility and were unable to scale. As a result, these attempts did not achieve long-term impact or provide the level of inclusivity necessary to support a diverse PWD population effectively.

Our motivation for launching this project stems from a commitment to fostering inclusivity and empowering PWDs across Nepal. Recognizing the critical role that accurate data and tailored assessment tools play in delivering targeted services, our organization set out to develop a comprehensive, web-based solution that would transform the way PWDs are recorded and assessed. By leveraging advanced technology and actively engaging stakeholders, we aimed to create a system that would not only address data accuracy but also enhance the social inclusion and quality of life for PWDs by streamlining their access to essential services.

While the core objectives of the project have remained aligned with the original proposal, a few adjustments were made in response to feedback from stakeholders and evolving project needs. One of the significant changes involved expanding our stakeholder engagement efforts to include a broader representation of PWDs and Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs). This expansion ensured a more inclusive development process, allowing the system to be more responsive to the diverse needs within the PWD community. Additionally, adjustments to the project timeline and resource allocation were made to address logistical challenges and technical complexities that arose during implementation. These modifications were crucial in ensuring that the project could achieve its intended impact and deliver an accessible, sustainable solution for Nepal’s PWD population.

Project Implementation Narrative

The overarching goal of our project was to develop and implement an accessible, web-based system for recording and assessing persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Nepal, providing a streamlined platform to support disability services. This system was designed to address the challenges PWDs face in accessing essential services and ensuring their information is accurately and securely recorded. Our objectives included conducting thorough research on PWDs' needs, designing an accessible and user-friendly platform, deploying the system across local governments, and training staff for effective utilization.

Technical Design and Implementation Approach: Our approach began with comprehensive research to identify the unique needs of PWDs, engaging directly with disability advocacy groups, government stakeholders, and community leaders. This participatory approach informed our technical design, allowing us to prioritize features that aligned with the accessibility requirements of PWDs. Key design aspects included customizable accessibility settings, multilingual support, and intuitive navigation to ensure inclusivity. To implement the system, we adopted an iterative approach, continuously gathering feedback from users to refine the platform. The use of open-source technologies was a strategic choice to ensure the system’s affordability, scalability, and adaptability. Throughout, we emphasized data security and privacy, implementing robust measures to protect user information. To design a truly inclusive interface, we collaborated with key disability advocacy organizations and accessibility experts. Addon Engineering Solution and Navya Technology contributed insights into best practices for accessible web design, while individuals from the PWD community participated in usability testing sessions. Feedback from these sessions led to the inclusion of essential accessibility features, such as high-contrast mode, screen reader compatibility, and multilingual support. These contributions were instrumental in making the platform intuitive and accessible for PWDs, ensuring that design and functionality met international accessibility standards and addressed practical needs identified during testing.

Our System Functionalities includes following features:

1. Platform Functionality: The system currently functions as a centralized database for managing PWD information, with plans to incorporate analysis tools in future updates. This enhancement will allow local government offices to generate reports and analyze demographic trends to support data-driven decision-making.
2. Source of Truth: All disability documents uploaded to the system are securely stored in an encrypted cloud database with restricted access, ensuring data integrity and compliance with privacy standards. This centralized storage serves as the “source of truth” for all PWD documentation, reducing data redundancy and protecting sensitive information.
3. Data Security: To safeguard online personal data, we have implemented multiple security measures, including AES-256 encryption, multi-factor authentication (MFA) for system access, and routine security audits. These measures prioritize data privacy and security, aligning with international standards for digital data protection.
4. Primary Project Goal: The main objective of this project is “assessment and registration” of PWDs, enabling a streamlined process for disability identification and service access. While enhancing online accessibility is also a goal, the primary focus remains on establishing an efficient, inclusive registry for PWD services.

Project Delivery and Activities: Our project activities have tracked well towards achieving the changes outlined in our proposal. Initial stages involved forming partnerships with disability advocacy organizations, government agencies, and technical experts, each contributing valuable insights into best practices for inclusive design. Community leaders were also essential in facilitating outreach efforts, helping us connect with PWDs directly and ensuring our approach was culturally sensitive and responsive to community needs. The system’s development phase was complemented by user feedback loops, allowing us to incorporate real-time suggestions and address usability issues. As we moved toward deployment, we provided comprehensive training to local government staff, covering key features such as disability assessment, data entry, and reporting functions. This training emphasized hands-on experience, enabling staff to operate the system confidently and independently.

Challenges and Barriers Overcome: While our activities have progressed well, we encountered a few challenges during implementation. Connectivity issues in remote regions were a significant barrier, limiting access to the online platform for some government offices. Additionally, limited technical expertise among some user groups created a learning curve for effectively utilizing the system. To address these challenges, we provided additional training sessions and technical support, particularly for staff in remote areas. We are also exploring offline data entry options and alternative communication methods to ensure continued system accessibility for users with connectivity issues.

Partnerships and Collaborations: The project benefited immensely from collaborations with disability advocacy groups, technical experts, and community leaders, whose insights helped us tailor the system to meet PWD needs effectively. Technical experts offered guidance on accessibility best practices, while community leaders supported outreach, ensuring active engagement and inclusive representation of PWDs in the development process. These partnerships were fundamental to the project’s success, enhancing both community trust and user adoption.

Future Outlook and Sustainability: Looking forward, we are committed to refining and expanding the system to better serve PWDs in Nepal. Our sustainability plan includes ongoing partnerships with stakeholders, securing funding for further development, and continuous system improvements based on user feedback. Additionally, we will continue advocating for inclusive policies and practices within local government, aiming to promote full participation of PWDs in society. This project has laid a foundation for sustainable, accessible digital solutions that support Nepal’s disability services and foster an inclusive digital environment for all.

Project Activities, Deliverables and Indicators

Beginning of Project

Activity	Description	#Months
Agreement, Mobilization and Desk study	Agreement with terms of reference will be done with all the project team members and they'll be mobilized as per agreement. Joint meeting with discussion as desk study will be held accordingly.	2
Existing system study and requirement analysis	All the technical requirements and models for development will be studied and finalized	2

Middle of Project

Activity	Description	#Months
Software design, development and approval	Design and development of main system will be done.	6

End of Project

Activity	Description	#Months
Software testing and server setup	System will be put for testing and necessary edits will be done. The server will be setup.	2
Conduction of training	Training program will be conducted for government officials and persons with disabilities for better user experience and usability.	1

Key Deliverables

Deliverable	Status
Project Initiation	Completed
System design and development	Completed
System Testing	Completed
Conducting training	Completed
Project Approval from Social welfare Council	Completed
System Implementation/Launch	Completed

Key Deliverables - Detail

Deliverable: Project Initiation Status: Completed Start Date: November 1, 2023 Completion Date: January 12, 2024 Baseline: Development team ready to commence the study. Activities: Agreement with project team members. Mobilization of project team members as per agreement. Joint meeting with necessary discussions as desk study among all the team members and related stakeholders. Study of existing policies and laws related to disability in local government. Outcomes: Necessary information, requirement and pre-requisite for the design and development of efficient system were obtained. Additional Comments: All the technical requirements and models for the system development will be studied and finalized by November 2023.

Deliverable: System design and development Status: Completed Start Date: January 15, 2024 Completion Date: July 31, 2024 Baseline: The methodology that we are planning to use to design and develop the system is proposed. Activities: For the System Design and Development component of the project, significant progress has been achieved, culminating in the completion of database setup and integration. Initially, a comprehensive needs assessment was conducted through consultations with local government stakeholders and relevant users, allowing the project team to identify and document specific requirements for accessibility, data management, and user interface design. Following this, the system architecture was meticulously crafted to ensure user-friendliness, scalability, and secure data management. Prototypes and wireframes were developed to visualize essential features, such as disability assessment, identification card issuance, and organizational registration, ensuring alignment with stakeholder expectations. In the core development phase, the primary modules were built to handle key functionalities: assessment of persons with disabilities, issuance of disability ID cards, registration and renewal of organizations, and a streamlined, paperless application process. Demographic data fields were also incorporated to enable analysis based on gender, ethnicity, and age. The system design prioritized inclusive and accessible interfaces, adhering to best practices in accessibility to cater to diverse user needs. Finally, the project reached the database setup and integration stage, where a secure database structure was established to manage disability-related information comprehensively. This database enables organized storage of individual and organizational data, with fields to capture essential demographic and identification information. The system was integrated with the database to facilitate seamless data entry, retrieval, and storage by authorized personnel, marking a key milestone in the system’s development. Outcomes: The System Design and Development phase of the project has led to several important outcomes, creating a solid foundation for managing disability-related data within local governments. A comprehensive system architecture has been developed with a strong emphasis on accessibility, scalability, and user-friendliness, ensuring that the system can grow and adapt to future needs. Core functional modules, such as disability assessment, identification card issuance, organizational registration and renewal, and a fully paperless application process, have been implemented. These modules streamline processes for persons with disabilities (PWDs) while allowing local governments to manage services efficiently. Additionally, a user-friendly and inclusive interface has been crafted to accommodate a broad range of users, prioritizing accessibility for individuals with various needs. The project also established a secure and organized database structure, enabling the accurate storage and management of demographic data, including information on gender, ethnicity, and age, along with organizational records. With seamless integration between the database and the system’s core modules, authorized users can input, retrieve, and analyze data efficiently, enhancing data accuracy and reducing manual errors. This centralized repository empowers local governments to make data-driven decisions, optimize resource allocation, and improve targeted service delivery for PWDs. Overall, these outcomes signify a major step forward in establishing an inclusive and efficient system that will enhance accessibility and streamline disability service provision at the local government level. Additional Comments: The system's development marks a transformative step toward efficient, accessible disability data management for local governments, enabling streamlined processes, enhanced data accuracy, and improved service delivery. This foundational work sets the stage for future scalability and ongoing enhancements in disability-inclusive governance.

Deliverable: System Testing Status: Completed Start Date: August 1, 2024 Completion Date: August 31, 2024 Baseline: Procedures for testing purposes is already proposed. Activities: For the System Testing and Feedback Collection phase, activities focused on ensuring the system’s reliability, usability, and accessibility through a thorough testing process and structured feedback collection. Initial testing involved functional and performance checks to validate each core module—disability assessment, ID card issuance, organizational registration, and the paperless application process. This testing confirmed that all modules operated as expected and aligned with the established requirements. Following this, usability testing was conducted with local government staff and a sample of end-users, including persons with disabilities (PWDs), to assess ease of use, accessibility features, and navigation within the system. Feedback sessions were organized to gather insights on user experience, identifying areas for improvement in interface design and functionality. Based on this feedback, minor adjustments were made to improve user interaction, accessibility settings, and navigation flows. This feedback collection phase ensured that the system is intuitive, inclusive, and adaptable to real-world usage, setting a solid foundation for a seamless rollout in local government settings. Outcomes: The System Testing and Feedback Collection phase yielded significant outcomes, ensuring the system’s readiness for practical use in local government settings. Through rigorous functional and performance testing, each core module was validated, confirming that features such as disability assessment, ID issuance, and organizational registration operated smoothly and met project specifications. Usability testing with government staff and persons with disabilities provided essential insights, helping refine the system’s accessibility features, navigation, and user interface for greater inclusivity. Feedback from end-users led to interface adjustments, optimizing user experience and ensuring that the system is intuitive and easy to use. As a result, the system is now well-prepared for deployment, with a high degree of reliability, user satisfaction, and adaptability, setting a strong foundation for effective disability data management across local government units.. Additional Comments: The testing and feedback phase has enhanced the system's usability, reliability, and accessibility, ensuring it meets user needs and is ready for effective deployment. These refinements align the system closely with the practical requirements of local government stakeholders and PWDs.

Deliverable: Conducting training Status: Completed Start Date: September 1, 2024 Completion Date: October 29, 2024 Baseline: Plan to conduct training has been proposed. Activities: For the Training and Capacity Building phase, activities were designed to equip local government staff with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively use and maintain the system. Training sessions were conducted in small groups, focusing on core functionalities such as disability assessment, ID card issuance, and organization registration. Interactive demonstrations allowed participants to navigate the system, perform key tasks, and troubleshoot common issues. Hands-on workshops provided staff with real-time practice, building confidence and familiarity with each module. Additionally, comprehensive training manuals and guides were distributed, offering step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting tips for future reference. A dedicated support team was made available to address participant questions during and after training, ensuring a smooth transition to independent system use. By the end of the training, staff members were well-prepared to utilize the system efficiently, enhancing their capacity to manage disability-related services and data accurately and independently. Outcomes: The Training and Capacity Building phase successfully empowered local government staff to utilize the system effectively, resulting in a confident and capable team equipped to manage disability-related services independently. Through interactive sessions and hands-on practice, staff developed proficiency in key functions like disability assessment, ID issuance, and organization registration. The distribution of comprehensive training manuals and the availability of a support team provided additional resources, ensuring that staff could address any operational challenges. This phase reinforced team capacity, promoting long-term system sustainability and enabling local governments to provide more efficient, accurate, and inclusive services to persons with disabilities. Additional Comments: The training phase strengthened local government staff’s confidence and skills, ensuring sustainable system use and enhanced service delivery for persons with disabilities. Staff are now well-prepared for independent operation, supported by thorough resources and hands-on experience.

Deliverable: Project Approval from Social welfare Council Status: Completed Start Date: September 1, 2023 Completion Date: January 28, 2024 Baseline: This is the complete administrative process which include meeting with local government officials, presentation of our project followed by recommendation from local government to social welfare council under the Ministry of Women, Children and Senior Citizen. Activities: 1. Submission of project proposal with detail budget and activities in Mahalaxmi Municipality. 2. Presentation of project in front of municipal executive committee comprised of Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Chief Administrative officer and local representative. 3. After presentation, discussion with the municipal executive regarding project impact and goals. 4. The decision to approve the project by the municipal executive and recommend to the social welfare council. 5. Submission of proposal to the social welfare council. 6. Study of our proposal by social welfare council. 7. Decision to grant approval by member secretary with necessary monitoring and evaluation procedures. Outcomes: The approval of our project by the Social Welfare Council (SWC) yielded several important outcomes that significantly contributed to the project’s success and future potential. First, SWC’s endorsement provided official validation, enhancing the project’s legitimacy and ensuring alignment with national regulations and standards. This approval fostered trust among stakeholders and reassured community members of the project’s commitment to inclusivity, increasing engagement and acceptance. With SWC’s backing, collaboration with government bodies became more streamlined, facilitating smoother coordination and access to essential resources, which proved instrumental in effective project implementation. Additionally, SWC’s support broadened the project’s reach, enabling scalability across other regions in Nepal and positioning the system for adoption by additional municipalities. This approval also strengthened the project’s credibility, attracting potential funding and partnership opportunities to sustain and expand its impact. Overall, SWC’s endorsement was pivotal, building confidence within the community, enhancing stakeholder collaboration, and laying the groundwork for a more impactful, accessible, and sustainable initiative for persons with disabilities. Additional Comments: The approval from the Social Welfare Council (SWC) has not only fortified the project’s foundation but also set a precedent for future collaborations in the realm of accessible digital solutions for persons with disabilities (PWDs). This endorsement reflects a growing commitment within Nepal’s governmental framework to support inclusive technology and advocate for disability rights. It underscores the importance of aligning projects with national priorities to foster broader acceptance, credibility, and sustainability. We are optimistic that this approval will pave the way for further initiatives focused on digital accessibility and empower other organizations to undertake similar efforts that contribute to an inclusive digital landscape for all.

Deliverable: System Implementation/Launch Status: Completed Start Date: October 1, 2024 Completion Date: October 29, 2024 Outcomes: The System Launch phase produced several impactful outcomes that enhanced both the operational efficiency of local government offices and the accessibility of services for persons with disabilities (PWDs). The system was successfully implemented across designated local government offices, where staff, after receiving hands-on training and orientation, demonstrated increased competence and confidence in using digital tools to support PWD services. This transition to a centralized, paperless platform streamlined administrative processes, reduced paperwork, and allowed for accurate, consistent data management. With the system’s accessible design, PWDs can now engage independently with local government services, marking a significant advancement in inclusivity. Additionally, engagement efforts raised awareness among community members and stakeholders, creating positive momentum and acceptance for digital transformation in disability services. The feedback gathered during training sessions provided valuable insights for future system improvements, ensuring that the platform remains responsive to user needs. Furthermore, the success of this launch has established the potential for scalability, laying the groundwork for expanding digital disability services to more municipalities and strengthening the overall impact of accessible governance in Nepal. Additional Comments: The successful system launch has set a strong foundation for accessible, efficient disability services within local governments. This launch not only improved service delivery but also promoted inclusivity and digital literacy among staff and PWDs. Positive stakeholder reception and scalability potential make this a promising model for expanding accessible digital solutions across Nepal.

Project Review and Assessment

Reflecting on the project, our team recognizes the significant value this initiative has brought to our organization and the broader community. This project provided an opportunity to innovate, allowing us to create a sustainable, accessible platform that meets the unique needs of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Nepal. The investment of time, resources, and collaborative effort has resulted in measurable successes and meaningful lessons that will guide our future work.

Achievement of Objectives: The project largely achieved its objectives, delivering an accessible, web-based system that has been positively received by local government offices and PWD beneficiaries. We successfully conducted research, engaged stakeholders, designed the platform with inclusive features, and provided training for local government staff. The feedback we received highlights improved data management, streamlined disability services, and a new awareness among stakeholders of digital inclusivity.

Key Findings, Outcomes, and Outputs: Some of the most important findings include the strong need for accessible technology within government processes and the impact of active community involvement in system design. Outcomes include enhanced efficiency and accuracy in disability data management, better accessibility for PWDs, and positive feedback on system usability. Our plans involve promoting these outcomes through case studies, sharing best practices with similar organizations, and advocating for wider adoption of accessible digital solutions within other municipalities.

Contribution to Internet Development: This project has advanced Internet development by creating an inclusive, accessible platform that enables PWDs to access essential services online. We have already observed a positive impact, with PWDs engaging more independently with digital services, thereby supporting digital inclusion and equity. By implementing multilingual support and customizable accessibility features, we’ve set a standard for government services to be more inclusive and digitally enabled.

Growth and Further Development Potential: The project has substantial potential for future growth, as the system’s modular design and open-source framework allow for easy scalability. Our next steps include expanding the system to additional municipalities and integrating more advanced features based on user feedback. The successful launch has also attracted interest from potential funders and partners, increasing our opportunities for further development and collaboration.

Development of Local Technical Capacity:Project activities have strengthened local technical capacity by equipping government staff with skills to manage the new system. Training sessions covered data entry, assessment functions, and troubleshooting, fostering confidence and competency in using accessible technology. Additionally, our organization has gained invaluable experience in implementing inclusive digital solutions, bolstering our capacity to deliver future projects in this space.

Lessons Learned for Future Improvement: Key lessons include the importance of stakeholder engagement from the project’s inception, as well as the benefits of iterative feedback to refine system functionality. Additionally, we learned that addressing connectivity challenges and varying technical expertise levels requires flexibility in design and training. Future projects will prioritize even more adaptable and offline-compatible features, particularly for remote regions with limited access.

Capacity Building within the Organization: The project has helped build capacity within our organization by introducing us to best practices in accessible design, digital project management, and inclusive community engagement. Staff gained hands-on experience in these areas, enhancing both individual skills and our organizational expertise. These skills have broadened our technical and operational capacity, positioning us to lead similar initiatives in the future.

Project Design, Management, and Implementation Success Factors: Key factors contributing to the project’s success included our iterative, feedback-driven approach to system design, strong partnerships with local advocacy groups and technical experts, and an emphasis on user-centered design. These elements ensured the platform was not only functional but also meaningful and user-friendly for the PWD community.

Diversity and Inclusion

In alignment with the original project proposal, our project maintained a commitment to gender equality and social inclusion across all phases, fostering diversity within the project team and among the communities served. This commitment encompassed the active involvement of women, gender-diverse individuals, and marginalized groups, while emphasizing accessibility for persons with disabilities, language diversity, and cultural inclusion.

1. Participation from Women and Gender-Diverse Individuals:Throughout the reporting period, the project actively involved women and gender-diverse individuals in essential roles. Women were integral to project management, technical development, and stakeholder engagement, contributing significantly to the project’s success. Outreach activities included specific efforts to engage women and gender-diverse individuals, recognizing their unique perspectives and addressing the specific challenges they face. This inclusive approach helped ensure that all community segments felt represented and supported.

2. Gender Equality and Inclusion in Team Structure and Decision-Making:Gender equality was a foundational principle within the project team’s structure and decision-making processes. Clear strategies were implemented to promote equitable participation, such as open communication channels, opportunities for input and feedback, and fostering a respectful, inclusive culture. By embedding these principles into team interactions, we cultivated an environment where all voices, especially those from underrepresented groups, were heard and valued.

3. Contribution to Capacity Building for Marginalized Social Groups:Capacity building efforts actively included marginalized social groups, including women, LGBTQI+ individuals, and persons with disabilities. Training sessions and discussions were open to all, providing skills development and reinforcing a sense of empowerment. This inclusive capacity-building approach helped participants gain confidence and skills, equipping them to contribute effectively within their communities and engage with the project on a deeper level.

4. Support for People with Disabilities:A core focus of the project was the inclusion and support of persons with disabilities (PWDs), both within the team and the communities served. The accessible web-based system was designed specifically to eliminate barriers and improve PWDs’ access to essential services, while project activities and materials were tailored to ensure inclusivity and accessibility. This approach fostered a greater understanding among community members and team members alike of the importance of creating accessible environments and systems.

5. Language and Cultural Diversity:The project placed a high priority on language and cultural diversity, reflecting the multi-lingual and multi-cultural nature of Nepal’s communities. Multilingual support was incorporated into the web-based system, allowing users from different linguistic backgrounds to access services in their preferred language. Outreach activities were conducted in multiple languages, ensuring that the project reached diverse cultural groups effectively, enhancing both engagement and inclusivity.

6. Inspiring Change within the Organization:The project has been instrumental in inspiring a shift within our organization towards more inclusive practices. The focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion fostered greater awareness of these principles, leading to organizational initiatives aimed at embedding these values into our daily operations. This shift has created a more supportive, inclusive work environment and reinforced our commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion across all our projects.

To ensure diverse representation, our project tracked participant demographics across key categories. Approximately 65% of participants identified as women, 90% represented various disability groups, and 60% came from gender-diverse backgrounds. Among the disability groups, 40% were individuals with visual impairments, 40% with mobility impairments, and 20% with hearing impairments. Engagement strategies such as targeted outreach through community advocates and focus groups proved highly effective in reaching these participants, and we plan to replicate these approaches in future projects.

Project Communication

Throughout the reporting period, we implemented our project communications strategy to maximize awareness, promote outcomes, and engage stakeholders effectively at each stage of project development. Our strategy involved a blend of social media outreach, participatory engagement methods, and partnerships with key organizations, aimed at both informing and empowering our community of beneficiaries.

1. Communication and Dissemination Efforts: To promote project activities, we utilized a multi-channel approach that included social media updates, newsletters, and targeted outreach. These efforts kept stakeholders informed of project progress and key milestones, while also encouraging participation in training sessions and events. To highlight project outcomes, we shared success stories and case studies showcasing the project’s impact on persons with disabilities (PWDs) and local government practices. One challenge we encountered was adapting communication strategies to accommodate the accessibility needs of PWDs, which led us to develop more inclusive and accessible content formats.

2. Community Engagement: Engaging our community of beneficiaries was central to our approach. We conducted focus group discussions, surveys, and community meetings, fostering a participatory environment where beneficiaries could share their feedback and suggestions. This helped us align project activities with the community’s needs and priorities. Additionally, our engagement strategy emphasized a sense of ownership among beneficiaries, empowering them to contribute to decision-making and actively participate in the project’s implementation. This inclusive approach has built trust and ensured that the project truly addresses the community’s unique challenges. We focused on enhancing stakeholder engagement to ensure diverse representation from persons with disabilities (PWDs). During the development process, we actively engaged various disability groups, including those with visual impairments, mobility impairments, hearing impairments, and intellectual disabilities. Approximately 120 individuals from these groups contributed through focus groups and feedback sessions, offering insights that shaped the system’s design and functionality. This diverse representation ensured that the platform’s features would effectively address the broad spectrum of accessibility needs in the PWD community. Their input was invaluable in creating a platform that prioritizes inclusivity and usability for all user types.

3. Sharing Findings and Lessons Learned: We shared project findings and lessons learned with other organizations and practitioners through conferences, workshops, and webinars. This information provided valuable insights into best practices for inclusive design and implementation, which other practitioners and researchers used to inform their own projects and initiatives. The collaborative nature of these exchanges has fostered a strong sense of knowledge-sharing within the field, allowing our experiences to benefit similar efforts.

4. Networking and Engagement with Stakeholders: We actively participated in events, conferences, and panel discussions to promote our work, engaging with governments, the technical community, and other key stakeholders. Presenting our project findings and networking with organizations committed to digital inclusion allowed us to explore opportunities for collaboration, share strategies for addressing common challenges, and highlight the project’s contribution to accessible digital infrastructure for PWDs in Nepal.

Our project communication strategy utilized multiple channels to ensure effective stakeholder engagement and community awareness:

• Surveys and Focus Groups: We conducted 4 focus group discussions and 2 community meetings, reaching approximately 120 participants. Additionally, 5 surveys were distributed among stakeholders to gather targeted feedback on system features and usability.
• Conferences and Workshops: To promote our findings, we attended 3 conferences, Digital Nepal Conclave 2024,Conference on Innovation in Computing, Engineering and Technology(ICSET 2024) and Zero Project India Conference 2024, reaching a combined audience of 900 attendees. Through these events, we shared insights on inclusive digital design and encouraged discussions around accessible technology.

Recommendations: Based on our experience, we recommend that similar projects:

Engage beneficiaries as active participants throughout the project to ensure alignment with their needs and foster a sense of ownership.

Invest in culturally and linguistically tailored communication strategies to reach diverse audiences effectively.

Prioritize accessible formats and platforms to ensure inclusivity for all community members, especially PWDs.

Project Sustainability

A significant change observed among our beneficiaries is the marked increase in their knowledge and awareness of digital accessibility and inclusivity. Before the implementation of our project, many beneficiaries particularly persons with disabilities (PWDs) had limited knowledge of their rights to access online information and services. They frequently encountered barriers, such as inaccessible websites and digital platforms, which led to frustration, exclusion, and a lack of confidence in navigating the digital world.

Through our project’s development and implementation of an accessible web-based system for recording and assessing PWDs in Nepal, beneficiaries have gained valuable insights into the importance of digital accessibility and its potential to enhance their daily lives. Targeted training sessions, workshops, and hands-on demonstrations introduced beneficiaries to inclusive design principles, assistive technologies, and their rights to equal access to digital resources. This approach empowered participants by equipping them with both the knowledge and the practical skills to engage independently with digital platforms.

This change is particularly significant because it enables beneficiaries to become advocates for their own rights, fostering a culture of digital inclusivity. With increased knowledge, beneficiaries are now better equipped to demand accessible online services, navigate digital platforms more confidently, and take advantage of online resources and opportunities. As a result, PWDs can participate more fully in the digital economy and broader society, contributing actively to their communities.

Furthermore, this transformation contributes to the larger objective of promoting an open, stable, secure, accessible, and affordable global Internet. By raising awareness of accessibility needs and fostering inclusivity, our project helps build a more equitable digital landscape, where individuals of all abilities have equal opportunities to participate and contribute. This positive shift among beneficiaries serves as a step towards a more inclusive, accessible Internet for all.

To date, 192 individuals with different disabilities have been registered on the system, benefiting directly from its accessible, user-friendly design. This registration metric illustrates the platform’s reach within the PWD community, showcasing its impact on increasing accessibility to essential services. We will continue to track registrations to measure ongoing engagement and refine the system’s features based on user needs.

To illustrate this impact, we will include images in the Implementation Narrative document, capturing moments of beneficiaries actively using the accessible web-based system, engaging in training sessions, and sharing their experiences and insights. These images will provide a visual testament to the project’s impact on the knowledge, empowerment, and digital participation of our beneficiaries.

Project Management

The project’s management, staffing, and administrative strategies were instrumental in driving progress and achieving our objectives. Our approach emphasized dedicated resources, streamlined communication, and adaptive project management processes, all of which contributed significantly to the project’s success.

1. Administrative Support: To ensure efficient project administration, we established dedicated project management teams who oversaw coordination and execution of all project activities. This included implementing customized tracking tools to monitor progress, manage timelines, and address challenges proactively. Streamlined communication channels were also established, enhancing real-time updates and collaborative problem-solving across departments. These measures went beyond our usual processes, ensuring smooth execution and timely resolution of any obstacles that arose.

2. Inspiring Change within the Organization: The project fostered a spirit of innovation and adaptability within our organization. By encouraging staff to think creatively and collaboratively, it reinforced the value of flexibility in achieving impact-driven objectives. The success of this project underscored the importance of initiatives aligned with our mission, sparking enthusiasm and confidence in future projects. Staff members gained valuable experience in inclusive design and accessible technology, which has broadened our organizational skill set and reinforced a culture of innovation.

3. Consolidating Organizational Strength and Credibility: Through the successful delivery of the project and its tangible impact on the PWD community, our organization has earned increased trust and respect from stakeholders, beneficiaries, and the broader community. The project’s results have bolstered our credibility as a reliable and effective organization committed to positive change. This enhanced reputation has solidified our relationships with existing partners and opened doors to new collaboration opportunities, establishing a strong foundation for future projects that continue to address critical community needs.

Project sustainability

The sustainability of our project, an accessible web-based system for recording and assessing persons with disabilities (PWDs), has been a priority from the outset. Our sustainability plan emphasizes community ownership, future development opportunities, and long-term commitment to maintaining and enhancing the system.

1. Handover to Community/End Users: The project solution will be handed over to the community and end-users upon completion, ensuring they are fully equipped to manage and utilize the system independently. Our exit strategy includes comprehensive training sessions for local government staff and community representatives, providing them with the skills and knowledge required to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot the system. Additionally, we are creating user manuals and support documentation to aid in long-term usage, helping beneficiaries maximize the system’s value. The community has responded positively, expressing enthusiasm for the system’s potential to transform PWD support and services, and local stakeholders are prepared to take ownership and continue its implementation.

2. Opportunities for Future Development and Growth: The project’s success has opened doors for potential future development, fostering interest from stakeholders in both government and private sectors. The positive reception of the system has generated interest in further collaboration and partnerships, creating possibilities for new funding from sponsors and investors. These partnerships could allow us to expand the system’s functionality, scale it to more regions, and integrate advanced features based on stakeholder needs. The attention garnered has laid the groundwork for future initiatives, which could extend the project’s impact and enable us to build on our achievements.

3. Continuation of Project Activities: Certain project activities will continue beyond the grant period, demonstrating our commitment to a sustainable impact. We have established an ongoing maintenance and support plan to ensure the system remains operational and secure. Additionally, capacity-building initiatives will persist, aimed at strengthening the skills of local government staff and community leaders in inclusive data management and digital accessibility. Advocacy efforts promoting inclusive policies and digital accessibility will also be ongoing, as we seek to influence policy and create a supportive environment for PWDs in Nepal. To support future developments, we will pursue partnerships, seek additional funding, and utilize our expertise and networks, ensuring the project’s impact is sustained and its benefits continue to reach the PWD community over the long term.

Project Recommendations and Use of Findings

Throughout the project, our team gathered valuable insights and lessons that have directly informed decision-making, benefited partner organizations, and shaped future planning within our organization and the broader technical community. These findings offer practical guidance and recommendations for practitioners and researchers working on similar projects.

1. Informed Decision-Making:The project findings and lessons learned played a key role in guiding our decisions during the reporting period. Through continuous feedback from stakeholders and end-users, we adjusted our strategies to better meet the needs of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and improve system functionality. For example, user feedback led us to enhance accessibility features and improve system usability. This iterative approach allowed us to allocate resources more effectively, streamline project timelines, and ensure that each stage of implementation aligned closely with our objectives.

2. Sharing Findings and Impact on Other Organizations:We actively shared our findings and lessons with other organizations through workshops, conferences, and collaborative discussions. Our insights, particularly in the areas of inclusive design and accessibility, provided practical guidance for other practitioners implementing similar solutions. Many partner organizations adopted our recommendations on accessibility best practices and community engagement methods, leading to improvements in their own projects and fostering a stronger focus on inclusivity across initiatives.

3. Future Planning and Influence on the Technical Community:The insights gained from this project are shaping our future planning and will continue to influence our organizational strategies. Lessons learned regarding accessible design, community involvement, and adaptive project management have become integral to our project frameworks, guiding the development of upcoming initiatives. Additionally, the project findings contribute to the technical community by offering a model for building inclusive digital solutions that prioritize accessibility. By sharing our experiences, we hope to inspire other organizations to adopt similar approaches, ultimately advancing accessibility, inclusivity, and social impact in technology development.

Recommendations:For practitioners and researchers working on similar projects, we recommend:

Sharing findings and collaborating with other organizations to contribute to collective knowledge and drive positive change in the technical community.

Prioritizing adaptive, feedback-driven approaches to accommodate the diverse needs of end-users and adjust strategies as necessary.

Investing in inclusive and accessible design from the outset to enhance usability and community acceptance.

Engaging beneficiaries as active partners to ensure that the solution is genuinely reflective of their needs and fosters a sense of ownership.

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