The School of Social Sciences (SoSS) and the Social Work Club of Thames proudly returned with their flagship event "Nepal Social Work Symposium 2025," held on June 19 and 20. Centered around the theme "Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity for Enduring Wellbeing," this two-day symposium aimed to create meaningful dialogue across generations, communities, and lived experiences.
Leading up to the main event, a series of pre-symposium activities set the stage, including art and expression workshops, photo exhibitions, and a moving theatrical performance. Together, these elements built toward a grand celebration of social awareness, inclusion, and advocacy.
Day One opened with the screening of "Age of Learning," a documentary by acclaimed filmmaker Shuvangi Khadka. The film spotlighted the experiences of women from indigenous communities who challenge gender norms and reclaim their identities through resilience and self-determination. The featured story, Padhne Umer, beautifully illustrated the bond between two older women and a group of children—highlighting how intergenerational solidarity can flourish despite age differences, and how younger generations often show remarkable openness and adaptability.
On Day Two, the symposium hosted its first panel discussion, "Journey from Community Radio to TikTok," which examined the generational shifts in storytelling and news consumption. Panelists Aakriti Ghimire, Sita Mademba, and Deepesh Tripathi unpacked how different age groups—children, youth, and adults—interpret and engage with information in today's rapidly evolving digital age. The conversation delved into the decentralization of media, the nuanced dynamics of apathy and empathy in content creation and reception, and the influence of digital platforms on public opinion.
The second panel discussion, "Rooted and Rising: Queer Lives, Collective Care," featured powerful voices from panelists Raji Manjari Pokhrel and Sushobhan Chimoriya. The session explored how histories of erasure, survival, and resistance shape contemporary queer experiences. It also examined the role of social justice movements in bridging generational divides, recognizing belonging, and promoting healing within queer communities. Panelists discussed inclusive models of care that recognize the distinct strengths and needs across queer age groups, and questioned how intra-community solidarity might be built in the face of unequal access, marginalization, and systemic barriers.
Nepal Social Work Symposium 2025 facilitated informed discussions, while celebrating diversity, creativity, and solidarity. It reminded us of the importance of shared stories, sustained empathy, and cross-generational unity in building a more inclusive and just society.
(The School of Social Sciences (SoSS) offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs including Psychology, Sociology, and Social Work. With expert faculty and practical experiences, SoSS prepares students for meaningful careers in various fields of social service and research.)
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