The Policy Research Institute and the Society of Nepalese Professionals-UK (SoNP-UK)Sign MoU to Advance Policy Research and Capacity Building

Policy Research Institute, Narayanhiti

The Policy Research Institute (PRI) and the Society of Nepalese Professionals-UK (SoNP-UK) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster collaboration in policy research, capacity development, and knowledge exchange.

The signing ceremony took place at the PRI office in Narayanhiti, Kathmandu. The MoU was formally signed by Laxman Prasad Bhattarai, Office Manager at PRI, and Gajendra Katuwal, President of SoNP-UK. The event was graced by PRI’s Executive Chairperson, Prof. Dr. Lekhnath Sharma, along with PRI research fellows.

During the ceremony, Mr. Katuwal introduced SoNP-UK, highlighting its mission, areas of expertise, and ongoing initiatives. He also expressed optimism about the scope for impactful collaboration. Prof. Sharma emphasized the importance of leveraging international experience and professional expertise in developing effective public policies in Nepal. Research fellows at PRI shared their perspectives on potential joint initiatives and outlined both immediate and long-term areas of cooperation.

The MoU establishes a broad framework for cooperation, including:

• Capacity Building: Joint training programs, workshops, and policy analysis skill development.
• Knowledge Sharing: Exchange of research findings, policy insights, and good practices.
• Collaborative Research: Co-authored policy studies, publications, and data-driven analyses.
• Professional Exchange: Virtual lectures, webinars, office visits, and networking opportunities.

This agreement, initially valid for four years, will be automatically renewed for successive four-year terms unless either party provides written notice to the other in advance.

By bringing together professionals from Nepal and the UK, the partnership aims to foster a culture of broad-based policy research.