Research & Innovation
TAPAS Research Labs
A structured network of young researchers and public health practitioners translating evidence into action.
Young Cohorts for Innovation
TAPAS Research Labs is TAPAS Nepal's structured initiative that unites dedicated young researchers and practitioners into focused innovation cohorts — each addressing a key public health challenge facing Nepal. The program provides mentorship, capacity-building sessions with international experts, and hands-on field opportunities to turn research into real-world impact.
Cohort members receive training in research fundamentals, methodology, and policy advocacy — and then apply that knowledge directly through community programs, school health interventions, and policy engagement. The Labs model ensures that young professionals are not just learning theory but driving change from day one.
Innovation Cohorts
Four thematic cohorts, each led by an experienced public health professional.
Leprosy Innovation Cohort
Cohort Lead: Sudip Nepal, MPH
This group discussed new perspectives and research-driven evidence to support Nepal's leprosy elimination program.
Members
School Health Nurse Innovation Cohort
Cohort Lead: Saraswati Sharma, MPH
This group strengthened the understanding of the school health program through practical, nurse-led interventions.
Members
Tobacco Control Innovation Cohort
Cohort Lead: Anita Mahotra, MPH
This group discussed evidence-based tobacco control advocacy and program innovation in Nepal.
Members
Nutrition Innovation Cohort
Cohort Lead: Amar Regmi, MPH
This group explored evidence-based approaches to nutrition education and community-level intervention across Nepal.
Members
Capacity Building & Knowledge Sessions
Expert-led guest sessions that build research and advocacy skills among cohort members.
October 4, 2024
Research Fundamentals in 30 Minutes
Designed to make research accessible and practical for young researchers.
Kajol Dahal
MPH, DrPH Fellow — East Tennessee State University, USA
October 25, 2024
Research Methodology
A focused session to build core methodological research skills among cohort participants.
Shraddha Nepal
MPH, Public Health Officer — DHO, Kathmandu
November 24, 2024
Youth Tobacco Control Initiatives in Pakistan
A cross-border session offering international perspectives on youth-led tobacco control for Nepali advocates.
Dr. Zainab Noor
Ascend Tobacco Control Advocate, WHO Fides Member — Pakistan
January 10, 2025
Evidence to Action: Implementation Research
Translating evidence into real-world health interventions through implementation research.
Dr. Ichlasul Amalia
MD, MPH — Dept. of Health Policy & Management, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia
March 12, 2025
Reliability and Validity in Research
Equipped cohort members with essential tools for rigorous research design focusing on accuracy and consistency.
Prakash KC
MPH, Public Health Officer — Health Service Directorate, Birendranagar, Surkhet
May 30, 2025
Tobacco Control Policy into Action: Why Youth Matter More Than Ever
Highlighted the vital role of young people in shaping and implementing tobacco policy (World No Tobacco Day session).
Dr. Momina Talib
National Tobacco Control Cell — Ministry of National Health Services, Regulation and Coordination, Pakistan
School Health Programs
Cohort members take their learning directly into classrooms and communities.
Adolescence, Mental Health & Personal Safety
Cohort members Anugya Nepal, Drona Pokhrel, and Sudipa Ghimire conducted a school health program on adolescence, mental health, and personal safety (Good Touch, Bad Touch) for 72 students in Grades 4 and 5 at Janasewa Secondary School, Kirtipur. The session used quizzes, discussions, and videos to help children understand boundaries in an age-appropriate way.
Venue
Janasewa Secondary School, Kirtipur
Nutrition Education at Padmodaya Secondary School
The School Health Nurse Cohort educated 152 students in Grades 5–8 on nutrition and healthy eating. Conducted in collaboration with school administration and teaching staff, the program included an interactive quiz to boost student engagement and reinforce key nutrition concepts.
Venue
Padmodaya Secondary School
Join the Research Labs
Are you a young public health student, nurse, or researcher in Nepal? TAPAS Research Labs is for you — connect with us to learn about upcoming cohort opportunities.
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