27 November, KATHMANDU: Nabil Bank proudly marks the successful completion of two impactful years of its groundbreaking initiative, Nabil School of Social Entrepreneurship (Nabil SSE). Launched on November 26, 2021, as part of the bank’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) activity, Nabil SSE has emerged as a catalyst for fostering social entrepreneurship throughout the country from 8 different schools including School of Management Tribhuvan University (SOMTU).
According to the bank, altogether 335 candidates have enrolled into Nabil SSE program, among which 52 enterprises have been established creating 869 jobs across the country. “We have witnessed the banking system gradually evolving with a growing need of mobilizing its resources for social and environmental wellbeing. Nabil Bank understands its responsibilities for this changing need and has taken appropriate steps through focused initiatives to promote social entrepreneurship through Nabil SSE,” said Upendra Poudyal, Chairman of Nabil Bank. He further said, “We firmly believe that this initiative will help the bank promote social finance aimed at social environmental and economic development in the country.”
Chairman Poudyal further added, “On this 2nd anniversary of Nabil SSE we reiterate our commitment in making a difference in the lives of the people and also gradually expand our activities within the country including additional footprints on a regional basis.”
Congratulating all stakeholders on the second anniversary, Gyanendra Prasad Dhungana, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Nabil Bank said, “Initiated with the vision to promote social entrepreneurs for sustainable development, Nabil SSE has already supported many youths in transforming their dreams into reality.” He further added, “We are proud to see our fellows being successful in their venture with visible impact in our society.”
CEO Dhungana extended gratitude to all participating fellows, mentors, experts, partnering colleges and Nabil team for collective efforts in making the program a success. “We are committed to continue making a substantial difference in our society through sustainable banking and social entrepreneurship,” he stated.
The Nabil SSE initiative comprises two transformative programs – the Fellowship Program and the Certificate Course. Any Nepalese citizen with innovative ideas can apply for any of the programs to acquire knowledge, financial access, and networks necessary to initiate, sustain, and scale their social enterprises.
The success stories of Nabil SSE Fellows extend beyond national borders, with recipients of prestigious awards at both national and international levels. Raj Bikram Maharjan, a fellow from the first cohort, received the esteemed Product ICT Award 2022 and won the Start-up World Cup. Maharjan being thankful to Nabil SSE team, he said, “After enrolling in the program, I learnt to focus on my business idea, branding, marketing and networking opportunities which helped me a lot.” Likewise, Yam Bahadur Karki, fellow member of 1st cohort, is supporting over 200 farmers, linking their produce to the market. Educated as a young microbiologist, Divya Maharjan, fellow member of 2nd cohort, is leveraging her expertise to create skincare and beauty products infused with locally available herbs for the Nepalese market. Having successfully introduced her products to over 100 outlets in Kathmandu, her company now aims to expand its presence and introduce these products to the international market.
According to the bank, Nabil SSE remains committed to fostering entrepreneurship in the country to empower individuals to contribute meaningfully through the transformative power of social entrepreneurship.
