Local Adaptation Plan of Action (LAPA): My Experience

In Nepal's rural areas, the effects of climate change are becoming clearer every day. Irregular rainfall, droughts, floods, and landslides are making life and livelihoods difficult. To address these challenges, programs like Local Adaptation Plan of Action (LAPA) are helping communities adapt and become stronger.

At the beginning, I didn’t know what the Local Adaptation Plan of Action (LAPA) was. When I participated in a LAPA orientation program for the first time, I learned about the impacts of climate change and how communities can adapt to them. I realized that this plan is developed by incorporating the ideas and problems of the community itself, which I found very meaningful. I understood that this plan would not only help solve the problems in rural areas but would also be useful in making a sustainable future.

During the LAPA orientation program, I had the opportunity to meet other youth from various districts across Nepal. Listening to their experiences and exchanging knowledge was very inspiring. Everyone brought their own community’s challenges and solutions to the orientation program. Sharing experiences with them helped me mature in my ideas and perspectives. Being able to collaborate with such friends and hearing the thoughts of youth from different parts of the country was a unique and invaluable experience for me.

By participating in the LAPA orientation, I was able to directly connect with my local government for the first time. I was excited to share my ideas with them. Before this, I thought that the local government was disconnected from us. However, the training revealed that working directly with them can bring significant improvements to our community.

One of my greatest achievements after participating in the LAPA orientation was the chance to share my knowledge and experiences with others. This not only motivated me but also helped me build my confidence. Such a type of orientation program also developed my public speaking skills. Earlier, I used to hesitate to speak in public forums. But now, I can confidently express my ideas.

Written by: Dhiraj Koirala

Nilkantha Municipality, Dhading