Sapana Basnet
About Sapana Basnet
Sapana Basnet is a Research Associate with extensive experience in disaster risk reduction and inclusive education. She currently works at the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction and Sightsavers, and has previously held positions at USAID, Liverpool John Moores University, and other organizations.
Work at Sightsavers
Sapana Basnet has been serving as a Research Associate at Sightsavers since 2020. In this role, she contributes to various research initiatives aimed at promoting inclusive practices and improving the lives of individuals with disabilities. Her work aligns with Sightsavers' mission to create a world where no one is blind from avoidable causes and where people with disabilities can participate equally in society.
Current Role at United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction
Since 2019, Sapana Basnet has held the position of Technical Expert at the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction in the United Kingdom. In this capacity, she is involved in the Global Risk Assessment Framework's technical working group, focusing on enhancing disaster risk governance and resilience strategies. Her expertise supports the UN's efforts in reducing disaster risks globally.
Education and Expertise
Sapana Basnet earned her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International Public Health from Liverpool John Moores University, where she studied Inclusive Humanitarian Response and the Impact of Disasters on People Living with Disabilities. Additionally, she holds two Master's Degrees from Brunel University London, one in Creative and Transactional Writing and another in Children, Youth, and International Development. Her educational background informs her research interests and thematic knowledge in cross-cultural studies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Previous Experience in Disaster Risk Governance
Prior to her current roles, Sapana Basnet worked as a Disaster Risk Governance Technical Expert for USAID in Nepal for nine months in 2020. She also served as a Disability Inclusion Consultant for the American Red Cross in Nepal. Her experience in these positions has contributed to her understanding of disaster risk management and the importance of inclusive practices in humanitarian responses.
Research Leadership and Initiatives
Sapana Basnet has led significant research projects, including the British Academy funded Inclusive Futures research projects in Bangladesh and Kenya, and the Irish Aid funded Inclusive Education research project in Senegal. Her leadership in these initiatives highlights her commitment to advancing inclusive practices and addressing the needs of marginalized communities in various contexts.