The International Children’s Literature Conference is being held on Friday and Saturday at Nepal Academy, Kamaladi. The event, organised in collaboration with Nepal Academy, the Nepal Society for Children’s Literature (NESCHIL), and Room to Read, will gather local and international experts to highlight the significance of diverse and inclusive children’s literature.

The two-day conference will feature over 25 research papers exploring various aspects of children’s literature, presented by Nepali and international scholars. In addition to these presentations, the event will include panel discussions, storytelling sessions, and exhibitions of children’s books and artwork.

“This conference provides an opportunity for Nepali children’s literature to gain recognition while allowing our local writers to learn from global peers,” said Bijay Raj Acharya, a representative from NESCHIL.

Every child, everywhere, should have access to books that reflect their unique experiences, inspire curiosity and empathy, and foster a love of reading.

Pushkar Lal Shrestha, country director of Room to Read Nepal, emphasised the personal impact of children’s books, “I still remember the first book I read as a child, the beautiful illustrations, and how it made me feel. Providing the joy of reading to children is essential for their holistic development. This conference will strengthen our ecosystem by highlighting the importance of creating meaningful storybooks.”

The conference will host over 100 attendants including experts, scholars, writers, and illustrators from Nepal and more than 25 international participants from India, China, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Pakistan, the United States, South Korea, the Netherlands, and Denmark.

“It is essential for children’s literature to thrive, and collaboration with national and international stakeholders will greatly enhance advocacy efforts,” says Bimal Krishna Shrestha, vice chancellor of Nepal Academy.