On 16 April 2026, John Hummel and his team of four students (two from Breda University, the Netherlands and two from Kathmandu University) visited The Small Earth Nepal (SEN) office for a knowledge exchange and networking meeting. Dr. Dhiraj Pradhananga, Founder President of SEN and Professor Khem Raj Dahal, advisor to SEN, also joined the meeting. Hummel’s team is currently engaged in a month-long co-creative research initiative under the Living Landscapes project, with a focus on working closely with communities to shape research approaches and outcomes. Their primary study site is Panauti, one of the four locations on the Nagraj Trails.
The meeting centered on SEN’s efforts to establish an agroforestry network, alongside discussions on wetlands, community development, and the integration of social and physical sciences. Hummel also talked about his Okharbot organic farm where his major focus is regenerative agriculture/ livelihood. His students shared their use of Appreciative Participatory Planning and Action (APPA) approach, offering valuable learning of the participatory tool for development practitioners.
This meeting marked an important step towards strengthening collaborative networks and fostering meaningful partnerships. Through interactive discussions and shared learning, the team explored opportunities to advance community-based initiatives and foster knowledge exchange.
