Where kids play, women thrive
Rethinking work and care
In Birendranagar, Surkhet, the Child Care Center and Breastfeeding Room at the Cottage Industrial Village is transforming the daily lives of working women and their children. Supported by the EU-funded Empowered Women, Prosperous Nepal (EWPN) programme, with technical support from UNICEF and ILO and in collaboration with the Karnali Provincial Government and FNCCI, the center addresses a challenge that women have repeatedly shared:
"I want to work. I want to contribute. But I cannot choose my job over my child."
The center provides safe childcare, first aid services, a dedicated breastfeeding room and early childhood development activities. Around 30 women entrepreneurs benefit, being able to work, run businesses and contribute to the local economy while knowing their children are safe, cared for and nurtured. This model demonstrates how inclusive and decent workplaces can function in Nepal when governments, the private sector and development partners work together.
Three mothers share their experience:
- Manisha Khadka, mother of 3-year-old Rubisa, runs a small shop with her husband that packages flour, beans and other dried foods. Before the center, Rubisa stayed close to her mother, limiting Manisha’s focus on work. Now, Rubisa attends the care center next to the shop, playing with peers and learning essential pre-school skills.
- Dipa Magar, mother of 5-year-old Shreeyansa, works in a garment factory in the complex. During school holidays, Shreeyansa had nowhere safe to go. At the center, he enjoys age-appropriate toys and a secure space to play, allowing Dipa to work without worry.
- Chandra Nepali, mother of 3-year-old Dipesh, previously let her son play unsupervised outside while she worked. Now, Dipesh is safely supervised by trained facilitators, giving Chandra peace of mind.
By providing accessible, quality childcare, the EWPN programme is helping women stay in the workforce while supporting early childhood development. This joint UN-supported initiative shows how creating safe, nurturing spaces for children strengthens women’s economic participation and benefits the wider community.
