BINOD PRASAD SHARMA
Managing Director
Binod Prasad Sharma is a seasoned professional with a robust academic background and extensive experience in the fields of political science, sociology, and local governance. Currently pursuing an M.Phil. in Political Science with a focus on local government strengthening from Nepal Open University, he has previously completed an MA in Sociology/Anthropology and a degree in Political Science and English from Tribhuvan University. His educational foundation, combined with his active involvement in professional societies such as the Federation of Nepalese Journalists and the Sociological Anthropological Forum Nepal, highlights his deep commitment to his disciplines.
In addition to his academic and professional memberships, Sharma has a distinguished career in the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector, particularly in Koshi Province. He has held significant roles including Co-Lead and Member of the Provincial WASH Cluster, where he contributed to policy formulation, capacity development, and sanitation campaign management. His editorial expertise is evident through his work with the WASH Khabar online news portal and his contributions to various WASH-related change documentation and publications, including major projects with UN-Habitat and Plan International Nepal.
Sharma’s proficiency extends to training and capacity-building, having facilitated numerous workshops and training sessions across Nepal. He has been instrumental in developing and delivering training on topics such as Total Sanitation, Child Rights, Gender Equality, and Strategic Communication. His role as a trainer and facilitator has been critical in strengthening the capacities of local government representatives, community leaders, and NGO staff, ensuring the effective implementation of sanitation and hygiene initiatives.
His vast experience in project coordination is reflected in his leadership roles at Rupantaran Knowledge Hub Pvt. Ltd. and the Global Sanitation Fund Program, where he has managed complex multi-stakeholder projects. These roles required him to coordinate with provincial and federal stakeholders, facilitate policy and plan preparation, and oversee monitoring and evaluation processes. His ability to lead and manage projects in the development sector has contributed significantly to the success of WASH initiatives in various districts of Nepal.
Sharma’s dedication to knowledge management and documentation is evident from his extensive list of publications and policy documents, which serve as valuable resources for WASH governance and local government strengthening. His work has not only provided practical tools and guidelines for stakeholders but also advanced the field of development communication and advocacy in Nepal. His contributions to the sector demonstrate a blend of academic rigor, practical experience, and a deep commitment to social change.
ARJUN PRASAD DAHAL
Legal and Capacity Development Expert
Arjun Prasad Dahal is currently in the responsibility of LEGAL AND CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT EXPERT at Rukantaran Knowledge Hub. He is a seasoned professional with over a decade of diverse experience in the development sector, law, and education. Born in Baiteshwar Rural Municipality, Dolakha, and currently residing in Bhimeshwor Municipality, Dolakha, Arjun has established himself as a knowledgeable and dynamic figure in his field. Holding an M.Ed. in English from Tribhuwan University and an LLB, his academic journey reflects his dedication to education and law, which are the cornerstones of his multifaceted career. His ability to communicate fluently in Nepali, English, Maithali, and Tamang adds to his versatility in various roles.
Arjun’s career trajectory is marked by his roles in prominent organizations, where he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and coordination skills. His tenure as an Employment Coordinator at Melung Rural Municipality under the Prime Minister Employment Program (PMEP) is notable for his focus on sustainable development activities and gender equality. Arjun’s work involved facilitating user committees, promoting women’s participation, and ensuring equal pay for work of equal value. His efforts contributed significantly to the socio-economic development of the region, emphasizing the importance of inclusive growth.
In addition to his role in employment programs, Arjun has served as a Program Coordinator in various capacities, including his work with Gaurishankar Group of Youth for Accountability (G-GYACA) and Samaj Utthan Yuwa Kendra (SUYUK). His projects, often funded by international organizations like UN HABITAT and the Foundation to Promote Open Society (FPOS), have focused on governance, sanitation, and public health. His leadership in the “Monitoring of budget and program implementation for promoting good governance” and the “Open Defecation Free Campaign” highlights his commitment to improving local governance and public health through youth mobilization and community engagement.
Arjun’s extensive experience in journalism further complements his professional portfolio. He has worked as a Senior Reporter and Program Producer, contributing to political reporting, development journalism, and media production. His work with various media outlets, including Deexan Daily and Radio Sailung Community FM, showcases his ability to inform and educate the public on critical issues. His contributions to media have earned him recognition and appreciation from various institutions, underscoring his impact in the field of journalism.
Currently, Arjun is engaged as an expert in Rupantaran Knowledge Hub Pvt. Ltd., where he continues to apply his expertise in documentation, training course design, and knowledge management. Arjun Prasad Dahal’s extensive experience, academic qualifications, and dedication to social change make him a valuable asset in any endeavor he undertakes.
SUJEET KUMAR MANDAL
Liaison Officer cum Program Expert (Madhesh Province)
Mr. Sujeet Kumar Mandal is an experienced professional with a robust academic background in Sociology and Anthropology, holding a Master’s degree from RRM Campus (TU), Janakpur. His extensive training portfolio includes numerous specialized programs in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), disaster preparedness, and local governance strengthening, equipping him with the expertise to lead and manage complex projects effectively.
In his recent role as Liaison Officer cum Program Expert, Mr. Mandal demonstrated exceptional leadership for ensuring the effective management and impact of programs. His role involved significant coordination with line agencies and local governments, where he played a pivotal role in policy-level interventions and program implementations, particularly in local government strengthening initiatives.
Mr. Mandal has also excelled as a Team Leader in various high-impact projects, such as the Rural Water Supply and Improved Sanitation Program and the Emergency WASH Response to COVID-19 Program. His responsibilities included survey coordination, data analysis, plan preparation, and project implementation oversight. He has a proven track record of managing WASH-related construction projects, such as overhead tank construction and institutional toilet design, ensuring technical soundness and financial efficiency.
His contributions to the WASH sector extend to project management and training delivery, where he has facilitated numerous workshops and training sessions on total sanitation, WASH behavior promotion, emergency WASH, and climate-resilient water safety plans. His ability to develop and deliver comprehensive training programs has significantly contributed to capacity building at the local level.
Fluent in English, Nepali, Hindi, Maithali, and Bhojpuri, Mr. Mandal possesses excellent communication, coordination, and networking skills, enabling effective collaboration with stakeholders and government agencies. His commitment to institutional capacity development and participatory approaches has been instrumental in the successful execution of projects aimed at strengthening local governance and enhancing community resilience.
DWARIKA PRASAD GHIMIRE
Thematic Expert
Dwarika Prasad Ghimire is an accomplished professional with over a decade of experience in disaster risk management, rural development, and humanitarian response. He holds a Master’s degree in Rural Development/Social Science and Humanities from Tribhuvan University, where he specialized in areas such as sustainable rural development, natural resource management, and rural-urban linkage. His educational background provides a solid foundation for his work in advancing rural entrepreneurship, market development, and disaster risk reduction across various regions of Nepal. He has completed M.Phil. from Nepal Open University in Political Science.
Throughout his career, Mr. Ghimire has held key positions in esteemed organizations, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Aasaman Nepal, and World Vision International. As the Provincial Focal Point for IOM-UN Migration, he played a pivotal role in supporting the Government of Province One in developing and implementing disaster risk management policies and strategies. His work included training provincial assembly members, coordinating disaster management training across 137 local levels, and leading UN coordination meetings at the provincial level.
In his tenure as Program Manager at Aasaman Nepal, Mr. Ghimire demonstrated strong leadership in promoting citizen empowerment and inclusive democracy in Madhesh Province. He successfully managed partnerships with civil society organizations and technical partners, facilitated capacity-building initiatives, and supported entrepreneurship development for vulnerable communities. His work significantly contributed to gender mainstreaming, social inclusion, and the empowerment of youth and women in the region.
Mr. Ghimire’s expertise extends to disaster risk management, where he has served as an advisor and specialist in projects aimed at improving livelihoods and resilience in earthquake-affected areas. His contributions to post-earthquake rehabilitation efforts, including the strengthening of local market systems and the introduction of gender-sensitive disaster risk management approaches, have had a lasting impact on the communities he served. He has also been instrumental in coordinating district-level events, facilitating stakeholder interactions, and ensuring the smooth transition and handover of project achievements.
Currently, as the Thematic Expert at Rupantaran Knowledge Hub, Mr. Ghimire continues to leverage his extensive experience in rural development, disaster risk management, and humanitarian response. His commitment to sustainable development and his ability to collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations make him a valuable asset in advancing the mission of Rupantaran Knowledge Hub in strengthening local governance and community resilience.
BABITA JAISWAL
Thematic Expert (RBA and Local Government Strengthening)
Babita Jaiswal, the Thematic Expert in local government strengthening at Rupantaran Knowledge Hub, has a robust academic background and extensive experience in the public sector, particularly within Madhesh Province. She is currently pursuing an M.Phil at Nepal Open University, having already completed her MA in Sociology/Anthropology and LLB from Tribhuvan University. Her academic work includes a dissertation on the Influencing Factors of the Dowry System in Parsa District and several articles related to Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI). These academic pursuits complement her professional expertise, particularly in areas such as gender, social development, and local governance.
Professionally, Babita has served in various capacities within government offices, including as a Senior Section Officer at Madhesh Province, a Social Development Officer at Birgunj Metropolitan, and a non-gazetted officer at both the Irrigation Management Office and Water and Sanitation Office in Birgunj. Her roles have been pivotal in advancing social development initiatives, particularly in her capacity as the focal person for UNICEF’s GATE (Girls Access To Education) Program and the Child Labour Program in Birgunj. She also led the Women and Children Department in Birgunj, where she played a critical role in implementing programs aimed at empowering women and protecting children.
Babita’s expertise extends to delivering training on critical issues such as domestic violence, paralegal practices, leadership development, and child rights. She has provided these trainings to a range of stakeholders, including ward-level officials, local government staff, women’s networks, and child networks at the palika level. Her training experience, combined with her on-the-ground work, makes her a highly effective facilitator and educator, capable of addressing complex social issues within the local governance framework.
Her commitment to social justice and gender equality is further evidenced by her involvement in significant campaigns like the Mukhyamantri Beti Padhao Beti Bachao Abhiyan at the Office of the Chief Minister and Council of Ministers (OCMCM) in Janakpurdham. Additionally, Babita has received several professional trainings herself, including in case management, communication skills, psycho-social counseling, and domestic violence, which have further enhanced her capacity to contribute effectively to social development and local governance initiatives.
Recognized for her excellence, Babita has been honored as the Group Topper of the Khaptad group of BAT-32 Section Officers of the Nepal Government and is noted as the first female civil servant from her community. Fluent in Nepali, English, Maithili, and Bhojpuri, she brings a diverse linguistic capability to her work, enabling her to connect with a broad range of communities and stakeholders across the region. Babita Jaiswal’s combination of academic achievement, professional experience, and dedication to social causes positions her as a key figure in the field of local government strengthening.
REENA KUMARI MANDAL
Thematic Expert
Reena Kumari Mandal is an accomplished expert in administrative and financial management, currently serving as the Thematic Expert at Rupantaran Knowledge Hub. With a solid academic background, Reena holds a Master of Business Studies (M.B.S.) in Account & Finance from RRM Campus, Janakpur, and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Studies with a focus on Account & Economics from Model Multiple College, Janakpur.
Throughout her career, Reena has gained extensive experience in managing and coordinating financial operations for various projects, particularly in the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector. She has worked on multiple significant projects, including the Rural Water and Sanitation Improvement Program, the ODF Campaign in Dhanusha, and the Emergency WASH Response during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her roles have consistently involved overseeing financial reporting, budget preparation, cash management, and procurement, demonstrating her proficiency in financial management and her ability to contribute to the successful implementation of large-scale projects.
Reena has also contributed to capacity-building efforts by delivering training on account management, financial reporting, and governance to local stakeholders, women’s groups, and community organizations. Her commitment to fostering financial literacy and accountability within communities is evident through her involvement in training initiatives such as Account Keeping, Revolving Fund Management, and Gender-Based Violence training in the Madhesh region.
In addition to her technical expertise, Reena is well-versed in various software tools, including Tally, and has received specialized training in accounting, finance, and gender equity. Her ability to navigate complex financial systems and her dedication to maintaining transparency and efficiency have made her a key asset in the organizations she has worked with.
Fluent in English, Nepali, Hindi, Maithili, and Bhojpuri, Reena is adept at communicating and collaborating with diverse groups. Her thorough understanding of local contexts, combined with her technical skills and leadership qualities, positions her as a highly effective professional in the fields of administrative and financial management, contributing to the mission of strengthening local governance and promoting sustainable development.
BISHAL KHADKA
Capacity Building Officer
Bishal Khadka is a dedicated management expert and young professional with extensive experience in financial, program, organizational, and administrative management, along with over five years of teaching experience in finance, marketing, and accounting. His academic background includes a Master’s in Business Studies (MBS) from Tribhuvan University and Bachelors in Law (LLB). His career spans multiple roles, including Management Expert at the Community Assistance and Research Centre in Janakpurdham, where he oversees financial and administrative management, policy preparation, data analysis, and report generation.
In addition to his current role, Bishal has served as an Account Supervisor Cum Manager at Shikshak Hit Saving and Credit Cooperative Limited, where he managed the cooperative’s operations, loans, deposits, and disputes, and provided financial literacy training to members. His responsibilities also included facilitating meetings of the Executive Board and Sub-Committees, coordinating with members, organizations, and government bodies, and managing daily operations.
Bishal has also enriched his skill set through various professional training programs, including Office Package, Graphic Design, Hardware and Networking Technology, and accounting systems. His proficiency in account management, team building, organizational management, and project management makes him a well-rounded professional. He is fluent in multiple languages, including Nepali, English, Hindi, and Maithili, and is actively involved in community organizations like Shristi Samaj and Pariwartan Youth Club.
With a strong commitment to his professional development and a track record of effective management and coordination, Bishal Khadka continues to contribute significantly to his roles. His combination of academic qualifications, practical experience, and professional competence positions him as a valuable asset to Rupantaran Knowledge Hub and the broader development sector.
BINDU SHARMA
Admin and Finance Officer (Registered Office, Chitawan)
Ms. Bindu Sharma is an experienced professional with experience of more than one decade in teaching, program management and admin/finance management. She has passed Bachelors Degree from Tribhuvan University.
She has experience of teaching in school level for five years. Similarly, she has contributed in social change campaign as the treasurer and research associate at Mahila Utthan Tatha Jagaran Kendra (Pokhara).
She is the founder Manager of Samadarshi Saving and Credit Cooperative Limited Pokhara; and played the same role for 10 years.
She is working as the Admin/Finance Officer and research associate at Rupantaran Knowledge Hub Pvt Ltd since its establishment.
She is actively involved in women’s empowerment through entrepreneurship development. She is the chairperson of Women Entrepreneurs Forum of Ratnanagar-9, and member of the municipal committee as well. She is successfully handling the responsibility of Sharma Agro Products as the founder and chairperson.
Hari Budhathoki
(Thematic Expert and Koshi Province Coordinator)
Hari Budhathoki is a seasoned professional with an extensive career spanning over two decades in the fields of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), disaster management, and community mobilization. Born on June 29, 1967, in Itahara, Morang, Hari currently resides in Itahari, Sunsari, and has devoted his life to facilitating positive social change. Holding a Bachelor’s degree from Patan Multiple Campus, Tribhuvan University, and a diverse array of training credentials, he has proven expertise in fostering sustainable development, capacity building, and governance strengthening across Nepal.
Currently serving as a Program Expert at Rupantaran Knowledge Hub Pvt. Ltd., Hari excels in facilitating workshops and training sessions, developing comprehensive training manuals, and coordinating with sub-national stakeholders. His role emphasizes knowledge management and documentation, focusing on enhancing WASH practices and disaster preparedness. Before this, Hari worked as the Project Coordinator for the WASH SDG Project under Plan International Nepal, where he co-led the Provincial WASH Cluster and facilitated strategic initiatives to advance sustainable development goals.
Throughout his career, Hari has held significant positions, including District Coordinator for UN-Habitat, where he spearheaded total sanitation campaigns across multiple districts such as Saptari, Siraha, and Parsa. He demonstrated exceptional leadership in preparing district-level strategic sanitation plans, strengthening institutional WASH initiatives, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders at all levels. His expertise extends to managing emergency responses, including revitalizing sanitation facilities post-disaster and ensuring equitable access to hygiene resources.
Hari’s commitment to professional growth is evident in his participation in advanced training programs, such as Master ToTs on Total Sanitation and WASH for combating pandemics. His robust knowledge in sanitation safety planning, participatory planning processes, and gender equity ensures that his initiatives are both technically sound and socially inclusive. These skills have enabled him to design impactful programs and policies that drive behavior change and promote sustainable practices in communities.
Hari’s extensive experience, coupled with his strong communication and coordination skills, makes him a valuable asset to any team or organization. Passionate about improving community well-being and environmental sustainability, he continues to dedicate his efforts to empowering individuals, enhancing governance, and fostering resilient systems. His enduring commitment to excellence and his collaborative approach underscore his impact in driving meaningful change.
Binod Kumar Mahato
Knowledge Management Expert
Mr. Binod Kumar Mahato, born on April 28, 1987, in Mithila Municipality-2, Dhanusha, Nepal, is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) programs, journalism, and community development. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Education (B.Ed.), earned in 2018, he has effectively combined his academic background with hands-on training and fieldwork to make a significant impact in the fields of sanitation, hygiene, and information dissemination. Fluent in English, Nepali, Maithili, and Bhojpuri, Mr. Mahato possesses excellent communication skills that enable him to engage with diverse stakeholders across Nepal.
Mr. Mahato has been instrumental in leading various sanitation and hygiene initiatives as a Program Coordinator for organizations like SUYUK and the Renaissance Society Nepal, under GSF/UN-Habitat funding. His responsibilities have included planning and executing municipal total sanitation campaigns, conducting baseline surveys, and preparing school and ward-level WASH plans. With expertise in monitoring, documentation, and capacity-building activities, he has successfully mobilized local stakeholders and spearheaded campaigns to achieve Open Defecation Free (ODF) statuses in Central Terai districts.
In addition to his WASH-focused roles, Mr. Mahato has a rich background in journalism. He has served as a reporter, sub-editor, and assistant editor for prominent media outlets such as Commander Post Kathmandu and Radio Mithila 100.8 MHz. His journalism experience includes news editing, reporting on critical issues like security and justice, and coordinating with government and private sectors. As a community radio coordinator, he has engaged with grassroots communities to amplify local voices and address pressing issues.
Mr. Mahato’s professional development is supported by a comprehensive portfolio of training, including workshops on climate change adaptation, household water treatment, school WASH programs, and social accountability tools. He has also participated in capacity-building sessions on media ethics, investigative journalism, and conflict resolution. These opportunities have enhanced his analytical and facilitation skills, enabling him to write case studies, success stories, and technical reports effectively.
A proactive leader with a solution-oriented mindset, Mr. Mahato is adept at working under pressure and meeting deadlines. His ability to coordinate with multi-sectoral teams, combined with his deep understanding of community needs, has positioned him as a valuable asset in development and journalism sectors. Currently serving as the Assistant Editor of Sansani Khabar Weekly, he continues to contribute to community engagement and empowerment initiatives while maintaining high professional standards.
Sailendra Kumar Mahato
Communication and Knowledge Management Expert
Shailendra Mahato, born on August 4, 1997 (2054/04/02 B.S.), in Dhanusha, Nepal, is a dynamic professional excelling in investigative writing, story writing, photography, and fieldwork. A passionate journalist and media facilitator, he has been an active member of the Federation of Nepalese Journalists and serves as the Central Committee Secretary for Press Centre Nepal. His engagement with various professional networks and clubs reflects his commitment to fostering collaboration and growth in the media and communication sectors.
Academically, Mr. Mahato is pursuing a Master’s degree in Mass Communication at Purbanchal University, complementing his Bachelor’s degree in Education from Tribhuvan University, completed in 2072 B.S. With a solid educational foundation, he has honed his skills through specialized training programs in areas such as community radio journalism, investigative reporting, photojournalism, and human rights defense. These experiences have enhanced his ability to deliver impactful storytelling and credible reporting.
Mr. Mahato has an impressive track record of professional achievements. Currently, he serves as the Madhesh Province Bureau Chief for Onlinekhabar.com, a leading online news platform. His career spans various roles, including Bureau Reporter for Ujyalo 90 Network for six years, Janakpur Reporter for Nepalkhabar.com for three years, and News Editor at Mithilanchal FM 105 MHz. His work also extends to regional and national media outlets, where he has built a reputation for insightful and reliable reporting.
Beyond his journalism career, Mr. Mahato has contributed significantly to the development of his profession. He has facilitated workshops on case story writing and success stories, including the Development Journalism Training in Janakpur in 2020. His editorial role at Mithila Khabar National Daily showcases his expertise in opinion writing and content curation. These contributions underline his leadership in nurturing journalistic excellence in Nepal.
Fluent in Maithili, Nepali, English, Hindi, and Bhojpuri, Mr. Mahato is equipped to communicate effectively across diverse linguistic communities. His proficiency in design and computer tools such as InDesign, Photoshop, and Microsoft Office enhances his capacity for content creation and publication. A dedicated professional, he combines technical expertise, creative insight, and a deep commitment to social change, making him a vital contributor to Nepal’s media landscape.