Nawalparasi , March 12, 2025 – Setu Nepal recently conducted a three-day training program focusing on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), HIV awareness, and mental health on 10th ,11th and 12th of March 2025. With the total number of 35 participants the event was focused on equipping them with knowledge, resources, and empowerment.
Day 1_ 10th March 2025 : Understanding Gender and Violence
The program started with an introduction to Setu Nepal’s mission—supporting Women Living with HIV (WLHIV) and survivors of violence. A lively game helped participants open up, sharing their dreams and struggles. The session then explored the difference between sex and gender, emphasizing that gender roles are shaped by society, not biology.
Discussions covered how GBV affects marginalized communities, including WLHIV, Female Sex Workers (FSWs), drug users, and the LGBTIQ+ community. Many face violence, discrimination, and legal challenges, making access to education, healthcare, and justice difficult. Issues like child marriage, the dowry system, and border-related challenges were highlighted, stressing the need for stronger legal protections.
Day 2_11th March 2025 : The Impact of Violence and HIV Awareness
The second day focused on the mental, physical, and social effects of GBV. Many survivors experience trauma, depression, and social isolation, limiting their opportunities for a better life. Mental health awareness was a key discussion point, as many participants were unaware of how violence affects emotional well-being.
The session HIV prevention and treatment, explaining safe sex practices, ARV medication, and mother-to-child transmission prevention where many participants had misconceptions about HIV transmission, relationships, and treatment, emphasizing the need for more awareness was facilitated by Respected Shrijana basnet
The Deputy Mayor of Nawalparsi respected Samjhana Chaudhary shared the insights related to available support such as funding for treatment, nutrition, and skill development to the participants which was unknown to them.Her presence and positive spirit and motivation towards the participants really inspired and rejuvenated the participants.
Day 3: Seeking Justice and Building a Safer Future
With the presence of Ranjana Kumari Chaudhary, a representative of Women’s Cell and Ranjita Chaudhary,representative of OCMC (One-Stop Crisis Management Center) the last included discussion regarding justice for the safe and better future.They highlighted laws protecting HIV-positive individuals and survivors of domestic violence, physical abuse, and mental harassment. The importance of reporting violence to the police was stressed, ensuring legal action and support for victims.
A balloon game served as a powerful reminder: self-care is the first step in protecting others. The training ended on a positive note, with participants feeling empowered and better informed.
Conclusion
This training was a transformative experience, equipping participants with the tools to fight gender-based violence, seek justice, and manage HIV with confidence. Setu Nepal continues to be a beacon of hope, ensuring no one is left behind.