DPNet facilitates Workshop to Improve Humanitarian Response Training Manual Framework
DPNet, in collaboration with the Institute of Himalayan Risk Reduction (IHRR), facilitated a stakeholder consultation workshop on 30th May 2025 at Kathmandu, to discuss and refine the Training of Trainers (ToT) Manual for Humanitarian Response Management Training (HRMT). The workshop was technically supported by AWO International and Aktion Deutschland Hilft. The event brought together humanitarian practitioners, disaster response experts, trainers, and representatives from International and National Non-Government organizations to discuss and provide input on the draft ToT manual. The objective of the consultation was to ensure that the manual effectively addresses key issues in humanitarian response management and remains practical for training future responders. Considering the importances of the two pillars of DPNet; Knowledge Management and Capacity Building, DPNet has planned to develop the training manuals and organize trainings on a regular basis. Mr. Suraj Gautam highlighted the objective of the program and requested active participation from the participants while Dr. Raju Thapa presented on the skeletal framework of the ToT Manual.
One of the major recommendations was to introduce a practical and interactive training focused on scenario-building and real-time decision-making for Humanitarian Response Manager. Emphasis was placed on ensuring duty of care, along with safety and security protocols for frontline workers. Participants also highlighted the need to integrate early warning systems and anticipatory action frameworks within the training curriculum. Issues related to safeguarding, protection, gender in emergencies, and GEDSI (Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion) were discussed extensively. The need to identify existing safeguarding challenges within the current response mechanism was underscored, along with calls for real-time monitoring and structured After Action Reviews (AAR).
Strengthening local ownership through community-based organizations (CBOs) and locally grounded actors was another key area of focus, reflecting the federal structure of Nepal. Institutions such as the Local, National, and Health Emergency Operation Centres (LEOC, NEOC, HEOC) were recognized as essential to building a more responsive system.
Further discussions explored better integration of existing guidelines like the Disaster Management Fund Mobilization Guideline 2021, and the importance of coordinated, sectoral (cluster-based) responses. Suggestions included addressing the challenge of duplication in humanitarian activities through better accountability mechanisms, improved Complaint and Feedback Mechanisms (CFM), and stronger coordination across agencies.
Similarly, the participants, provided insights on the importance of developing Situation Report (SitRep), structured report writing, and scenario-based targeting. Emphasis was also placed on digital integration for training modules, alongside the need for better understanding of handover/takeover procedures during emergencies. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to build a skilled humanitarian workforce, strengthen early response mechanism, and ensure real-time scenario analysis for effective disaster response and anticipatory action.
