Manoj Kaphle
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellow, Class of 2021
- Home country: Nepal
- College and degree: Masters in agriculture
- Current position: Senior Credit Officer at Agricultural Development Bank in Kathmandu, Nepal
- Specialization: Horticulture science
What is the most memorable or impactful experience of your career so far?
One of my most memorable experiences was developing a model of farmer business school, which created a new framework for the agricultural market to include roles and responsibilities of all market actors (producers, traders, processing unit, retailers and buyers) in four rural districts of Nepal. Also, in my position I served more than 1,200 people, helping them with technical support and creating financial access to initiate small agri-business. Similarly, I developed on capacity building trainings for over 100 individuals who work in agriculture in rural communities to boost high value agricultural products.
What impact do you want to make in your country?
I have a dream to establish sound market system for agricultural products where small farmers get access to sell their products with fair market price.
How do you think your Humphrey Fellowship and your time at Cornell will help boost your career?
I am enthusiastic to learn about practical models for small agricultural businesses which would address the needs of uneducated, unemployed and socially excluded farmers of Nepal. For professional experience, I am deeply interested in understanding rural development, especially agriculture, including different dimensions of livelihoods. In addition to this, I am keen to receive new ideas on value chain development of agricultural products with the objective of enhancing the quality and price of high value agricultural products that are available in Nepal.
What does public service mean to you?
For me, public service includes any work that brings comfort to the lives of people and helps them achieve their goals. For example, I am designing lending policies that enable marginalized farmers to establish their own enterprises. Personally, I am providing technical skills to the farmers that develops their capacity to produce a higher number of products.
What are you happiest doing when you're not working?
I enjoy writing poetry in my native language (which can be found on Facebook, Youtube, and various newspapers and books). I also enjoy playing badminton.
What is your personal motto?
To transform the lives of poor and marginalized people, especially those who are living in rural areas of Nepal.