inDrive Graduates First All-Women Driver Training Cohort in Nepal
Global mobility platform inDrive has successfully completed the first cohort of its inDrive Driving Naari Nepal programme, marking a significant step towards increasing women's participation in Nepal's ride-hailing and mobility sector.
The initiative concluded with a certification ceremony in Kathmandu, where ten women received certificates after completing a three-month training programme focused on professional two-wheeler riding, road safety, licensing and personal safety.
The programme was launched in April 2026 to help women from underserved communities gain access to sustainable income opportunities while breaking barriers in a profession traditionally dominated by men.
Beyond practical riding lessons, participants underwent comprehensive road safety training and were assisted throughout the driving licence process. Each graduate also received a safety kit comprising a protective helmet, first-aid supplies and a medical kit.
To further strengthen their confidence on the road, inDrive partnered with FightBack Nepal to provide advanced self-defence training aimed at helping participants respond to potential safety risks.
Speaking at the event, DSP Sunil Jung Shah from the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office emphasised the importance of responsible driving, encouraging the graduates to continue learning and prioritise road safety as they begin their professional careers.
The programme also highlighted the broader role of mobility in improving women's independence. A two-wheeler licence not only opens up earning opportunities through ride-hailing but also provides easier access to workplaces, education, healthcare and daily services without relying on public transport or family members.
The company also believes that increasing the number of female riders will give passengers greater choice while making the platform more representative of the communities it serves.
The graduation ceremony was attended by government officials, partner organisations, media representatives and inDrive's Nepal Brand Ambassador Swastima Khadka, who presented certificates and safety kits to the participants.
As part of the celebration, one graduate won an electric scooter, three received smartphones and the remaining six were awarded smartwatches to support them as they begin their careers.
Shaerine Irwina Kaur, Communications Manager for Southeast Asia at inDrive, said the programme addresses a common imbalance seen across many markets, where women frequently use ride-hailing services but rarely become drivers due to limited access to training and licensing opportunities.
She added that Nepal's first cohort demonstrates how structured training, licensing support and platform access can create a viable pathway into the profession, with similar initiatives planned for other markets.
Manjeeta Gurung, Communications Manager at inDrive Nepal, noted that the programme goes beyond technical training by addressing social stigma and providing women with the confidence and support needed to pursue professional driving.
Senior Driver Operations Specialist Sunita Jeemi Rai described the initiative as an important step towards creating a more inclusive mobility ecosystem, while Swastima Khadka said the programme reflects inDrive's commitment to creating fairer opportunities and driving positive change within communities.
