From Devon to Kathmandu: Connecting Through Cadetship
As part of our commitment to developing confident, resilient and culturally aware young people, the Army Cadets values opportunities to learn from youth organisations worldwide. During a recent visit to Nepal, Cadet Force Adult Volunteer (CFAV) and Chair of the Army Cadets Multicultural Network, Uashar Badakhshan, had the opportunity to visit the headquarters of the Nepal National Cadet Corps (NCC) in Kathmandu.
In this article, Uashar shares his experience of meeting NCC representatives, exploring how the organisation supports young people, and discovering the shared values that connect cadet organisations across different countries and cultures. His visit provided valuable insights into leadership, community service, inclusion and the important role young people can play in supporting society.
A Unique Opportunity in Kathmandu
During my recent trip to Nepal, I had the privilege of visiting the headquarters of the Nepal National Cadet Corps (NCC) in Kathmandu. As a volunteer with the Army Cadets and Chair of the Army Cadets Multicultural Network, the visit provided a valuable opportunity to learn about another youth organisation dedicated to developing leadership, discipline, citizenship and resilience in young people.
Developing the Next Generation of Leaders
The Nepal NCC was established to develop national unity, leadership and civic responsibility among young people. Similar to the Army Cadets in the United Kingdom, the organisation provides structured training and opportunities for personal development, encouraging cadets to become responsible and active members of society. The NCC operates across schools and colleges in Nepal, engaging thousands of young people from diverse backgrounds.
Shared Values and Common Purpose
During the visit, I met with senior NCC representatives, who provided an overview of the organisation’s structure, aims and activities. It was fascinating to learn about the similarities and differences between the Nepal NCC and the Army Cadets. Both organisations place a strong emphasis on leadership, teamwork, self-discipline and community service. Cadets in Nepal participate in activities such as drill, adventure training, fieldcraft, first aid, and disaster response training, helping them prepare for challenges both within their communities and beyond.
Supporting Communities in Times of Need
One of the most striking aspects of the visit was the NCC’s role in supporting disaster preparedness and response. Given Nepal’s geography and vulnerability to natural disasters such as earthquakes and landslides, cadets receive training to assist communities during emergencies. This highlights the important role that youth organisations can play in building resilience and supporting their communities during times of need.
Promoting Cultural Understanding & Inclusion
The visit also provided an opportunity to discuss cultural diversity, inclusion and community engagement. Nepal is a country with a rich mixture of cultures, ethnicities, languages and faiths, and it was inspiring to hear how the NCC seeks to bring young people together through shared experiences and common values.
These discussions closely aligned with the work of the Army Cadets Multicultural Network, which aims to ensure that every cadet feels welcomed, valued and supported regardless of their background.
Lessons from an International Trip
Beyond the formal discussions, the visit reinforced the universal value of cadet organisations in empowering young people. Despite operating in different countries and cultural contexts, both the Nepal NCC and Army Cadets share a commitment to developing confidence, leadership, resilience and service to others.
What struck me most was how many of our values and aspirations were shared. Although our cadets grow up in different environments and face different challenges, we are united by a common purpose: helping young people realise their potential and make a positive contribution to society.
I am incredibly grateful to the Nepal National Cadet Corps for their warm welcome and hospitality. The visit was both educational and inspiring, and it reminded me that cadet organisations around the world play a vital role in building future leaders, strengthening communities and creating opportunities for young people to thrive.
