Appreciative inquiry learning sharing program

Appreciative Inquiry Learning Sharing Program Regional Context and Background Ilam district has established itself as a leading region in cash crop production, with its agricultural economy built around key commodities including tea, potato, cardamom, milk, Akabare ginger, and broom. Within this productive landscape, Soyang Village Development Committee has distinguished itself as a premier location for milk-based production activities throughout Ilam district. The area benefits from collaborative development efforts through multiple organizations, including Sungava Development Organisation, Local Development Fund, and Soyang VDC, which jointly operate social mobilization programs in the region. Building on this foundation, Imagine Soyang was established in the previous year to further strengthen community-driven development initiatives. Program Overview A comprehensive three-day "Appreciative Inquiry Learning Sharing Program" was successfully conducted by the Umbrella Group Soyang, bringing together diverse stakeholders from across the community to share experiences and build collective capacity. Program Details: - Duration: August 2-4, 2007 - Participants: 34 representatives from various sectors - Organizer: Umbrella Group Soyang Participant Profile The program attracted a diverse group of 34 participants representing key community sectors: - Community Leadership: 26 community-based organization representatives - Education Sector: Local teachers and educators - Political Leadership: Local political leaders and elected officials Training Methodology The program employed an innovative and engaging methodology centered on experiential learning and knowledge sharing: - Success Story Approach: All sessions were conducted through systematic success story telling and collaborative analysis - Best Practice Identification: Participants worked collectively to identify and analyze the most effective practices within their VDC - Interactive Learning: Emphasis on peer-to-peer learning and knowledge exchange Facilitation Team The program was expertly facilitated by a skilled team of practitioners: - Mr. Kishor Rijal - Secretary, Imagine Ilam - Ms. Srijana Chapagain - Member, Imagine Ilam - Mr. Rabin Rai - Secretary, Imagine Soyang - Ms. Krishna Kumari Baniya - Social Mobilizer Program Outcomes and Impact By the conclusion of the three-day program, significant outcomes were achieved: Mindset Transformation All participants developed a strong conviction in positive thought-based development approaches, representing a fundamental shift from problem-focused to strength-based community development strategies. Program Expansion Recognition Participants unanimously recognized the value and effectiveness of the program, expressing that similar appreciative inquiry learning opportunities should be extended to all community and political leaders throughout the region. Capacity Building Achievement The program successfully demonstrated how appreciative inquiry methodologies can be effectively applied to identify, analyze, and replicate best practices for sustainable community development. Strategic Significance This learning sharing program represents a significant milestone in community-driven development, showcasing how collaborative learning approaches can transform local leadership perspectives and build collective capacity for positive social change. The program's success in Soyang VDC provides a replicable model for similar initiatives across other communities in Ilam district and beyond.