Introduction
The successful implementation of ADB-assisted development projects requires a sound understanding of the Asian Development Bank (ADB)'s business processes, project cycle, and safeguard requirements. As local governments increasingly serve as implementing agencies or key stakeholders in ADB-assisted development projects, elected representatives and senior officials play a vital role in ensuring that projects are planned and implemented in accordance with ADB's operational requirements while promoting transparency, accountability, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion.
ADB-assisted development projects are required to comply with safeguard requirements relating to the environment, involuntary resettlement, and Indigenous Peoples, as well as establish effective stakeholder engagement and project-level Grievance Redress Mechanisms (GRMs). Local governments are expected to facilitate safeguard compliance, address community concerns, and coordinate effectively with executing and implementing agencies throughout the project cycle. In this context, orientation program has been designed specifically for Mayors/Chairpersons, Deputy Mayors/Vice-Chairpersons, Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs), Ward Chairpersons, and other relevant officials from the 14 local governments of Koshi Province. 

Course Aim
To enhance the knowledge and understanding of elected representatives and senior officials on ADB's business processes, safeguard requirements, and grievance redress mechanisms for the effective implementation.

Course Objectives
Upon completion of this orientation program, participants will be able to:
•    Explain the key stages of ADB's business process and project implementation cycle. 
•    Describe the fundamental requirements of ADB's environmental and social safeguards and the roles and responsibilities of local governments in ADB-assisted development projects. 
•    Explain the purpose, principles, and functioning of GRM in ADB-assisted development projects. 

Content Outline
The orientation is structured as mentioned below:
•    ADB business process, Nepal portfolio & project preparation to implementation 
•    General introduction of ADB’s safeguard policy 
•    Specific safeguard requirements (Environment, Involuntary Resettlement, and Indigenous Peoples)
•    Grievance Redress Mechanism in ADB & ADB-funded Projects 

Approach and Methodology
Adult learning principles will be used to facilitate the learning of the participants during orientation. To promote team learning, an environment will be created to explore and share valuable experiences in the orientation sessions.
 

Participants: