Samaritan Exchange Programme

Samaritan Exchange Programme

Hosted by Samari Utthan Sewa (SUS), Nepal

About the Programme

The Samaritan Exchange Programme, established in 2025, is an international learning and collaboration initiative hosted by Samari Utthan Sewa (SUS) in Nepal. The programme is committed to nurturing emerging leaders who advance dignity, equality, and sustainable development across borders.

Designed as both an academic and experiential exchange, the programme provides space for learning, sharing, dialogue, and joint knowledge creation between international participants and SUS. The programme offers 2-3 month long a structured platform for overseas participants to engage with Nepali society, culture, and social justice realities—particularly the experiences of Dalit and marginalized communities affected by caste-based discrimination.

Programme Objective

The central objective of the programme is to strengthen sustainable collaboration between SUS and overseas civil society organisations (CSOs), universities, research institutes, foundations, and development partners. By fostering two-way learning and co-created exchange activities, the programme enhances mutual understanding and shared problem-solving approaches.

Beyond short-term engagement, the Programme seeks to establish long-term institutional partnerships that continue to generate collaborative actions, joint initiatives, and sustained international cooperation well beyond the exchange period.

Who Can Apply

The programme welcomes applications from individuals under 40 years of age at the time of exchange. Eligible applicants include:

• Individuals actively engaged in Dalit rights and marginalized community issues
• Representatives from seminaries and research institutions, university and graduate students.
• Representatives of development organisations and civil society institutions
• Practitioners in human rights, education, and social development sectors
• Development practitioners and policy advocates.

Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to social inclusion, research collaboration, and international knowledge exchange.

Programme Structure

The Samaritan Exchange Programme follows a hybrid exchange model, combining online and in-person engagement. Key components include:

• Academic engagement and thematic seminars
• Field visits to Dalit and marginalized communities
• Policy dialogue sessions and institutional meetings
• Joint workshops and research discussions
• Cultural immersion and social interaction activities
• Replacement as Samaritan Fellow Teacher.

Each exchange cycle is guided by a mutually agreed thematic focus aligned with shared research and development goals.

Number of Participants

• Maximum of 2 participants per exchange cycle (including supervisors).
• The ratio of invited and dispatched participants is strategically determined to ensure optimal learning outcomes and programme effectiveness.
• Previous participants may reapply in subsequent years, strengthening continuity and long-term collaboration.

Selection Criteria

Applications are assessed based on:

• Alignment with programme objectives and thematic focus
• Academic or professional merit and leadership potential
• Institutional capacity and commitment to sustained collaboration
• Quality and feasibility of the proposed exchange plan
• Potential for long-term impact, joint initiatives, and expanded networking

Safety and Administrative Support

Samari Utthan Sewa (SUS) ensures comprehensive coordination and participant support. SUS cannot provide any financial support to the applicant.  Applicants must cover all personal and logistics expenses. However, SUS can facilitate the following activities, including:

• Visa and travel guidance
• Safe accommodation and logistics management
• Cultural orientation
• Ethical and safeguarding protocols
• Structured supervision and programme facilitation

All participating institutions are responsible for maintaining appropriate safety and compliance measures throughout the exchange.

Alumni Network

Upon completion of the exchange, participants join the Samaritan Exchange Alumni Network. The alumni platform:

• Sustains international collaboration
• Shares research, fellowship, and networking opportunities
• Encourages continued engagement with Nepal and partner institutions
• Supports the development of future joint initiatives

For partnership inquiries and application details, please contact:
Samari Utthan Sewa
Man Bhawan, Lalitpur, Nepal
P.O.Box No. 8975, EPC 1440
Tel: 97715430173
Email: sus@samariutthan.org.np