In Nepal, early identification and screening of hearing loss among children has improved in recent years, enabling more children to access hearing aids and cochlear implants. However, many are still unable to fully benefit due to limited follow-up rehabilitation services such as language development therapy, communication skills training, and psychosocial support. This gap significantly affects children’s learning, communication, and social participation, highlighting the need for sustained rehabilitation and skilled service providers.

For the past seven years, SHRUTI has been providing Individualized Education Plan (IEP)-based rehabilitation services to around 45 children with hearing loss in the Kathmandu Valley. Through language and communication development classes, daily living skills support, psychosocial counseling, and close collaboration with parents and teachers, the program has contributed to significant improvements in children’s language development, school participation, and social confidence.

To sustain and expand these vital services, SHRUTI has partnered with Kathmandu Metropolitan City to strengthen its capacity and reach more children with hearing loss. The program aims to develop and train three specialized service providers who will support children through assessments, individualized intervention plans, parent and teacher training, inclusive education support, and psychosocial services. By investing in early intervention and inclusive education, we can help children with hearing loss achieve their full potential and participate actively in school, family, and community life.

This initiative is fully aligned with the Constitution of Nepal, the Disability Rights Act, the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), Article No. 24 (Education), 25 (Health) and 26 (Habilitation and Rehabilitation) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and 4 (Quality Education). It focuses on building skilled local human resources to ensure sustainable and community-based rehabilitation services.