Baseline Study of the Inclusive Nurturing System to Promote Digital Innovation, Job Readiness and Quality Basic Education (INSPIRE) Project

The Inclusive Nurturing System to Promote Digital Innovation, Job Readiness and Quality Basic Education (INSPIRE) Project is a five-year initiative funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and implemented by Save the Children Korea through its Nepal Country Office. The project is being executed in Bara and Mahottari districts of Madhesh Province between July 2025 and December 2029. The project aims to strengthen Nepal’s education and youth systems through integrated interventions that promote inclusive, equitable and technology-enabled learning and employment opportunities. It is designed to contribute to Nepal’s long-term development by developing individual potential, expanding career pathways and enhancing the responsiveness of local governance structures in promoting education and digital innovation. The baseline study was conducted by FDM to establish benchmark values for key impact and outcome indicators related to inclusive and quality education, youth job readiness, digital skills and local government policy and budget responsiveness.

Districts: Bara (Devtal RM, Mahagadhimai M and Karaiyamai RM) and Mahottari (Aurahi M and Loharpatti M)

Quantitative Sample: Youth survey with 724 adolescents and youth aged 15–24 years| Learning assessments of 1,268 students (Grades 3 and 5) | Classroom observations and teacher surveys in 43 schools

Qualitative Sample: 51 FGDs and KIIs

Duration: Nov 2025 - March 2026