Society International Travels formalises support for autism NGO FPCA

KATHMANDU: Society International Travels (SI) on August 2 formalised a partnership with Friends of Parents of Children with Autism (FPCA), a pioneering Nepali NGO supporting children with autism and their families. The first instalment of its monthly financial support was presented to FPCA president Elina Bajracharya Tuladhar as part of SI’s corporate social responsibility initiative.

Santosh Bikram Rana, Head of GSA Affairs at SI, said autism remains deeply misunderstood in Nepal, often resulting in social stigma and immense challenges for affected families. He added that businesses must actively bridge these gaps and that SI’s backing of FPCA underlines its commitment to building a more inclusive Nepal—one where every child receives the opportunities they deserve.

Elina Bajracharya Tuladhar, Founder of FPCA and a mother of a child with autism, said SI’s support “empowers our decade-long mission to provide specialised education and therapy for children with autism.” She urged the government to prioritise neurodiversity support and said SI’s contribution will enable FPCA to extend vital services for families facing financial and emotional strain.

Established in 2013, FPCA operates Kathmandu’s only not-for-profit day-care and learning centre exclusively for children with autism, currently serving 15 youngsters. Its holistic approach includes individualised education plans; occupational, speech, music and behavioural therapies; skill-development programmes in motor skills, communication and socialisation; and a staffing model that integrates trained special educators with parents and siblings.

As Nepal’s leading general sales agent representing airlines such as Thai Airways, SI facilitates seamless global travel experiences. Through its CSR programme, SI champions community welfare across Nepal, focusing on education, health and inclusive development.