The Society of Engineers for Rural Development, Nepal (SERDeN) is a non-governmental, non-political, non-profit, and professional organization registered under the Associations Registration Act, 2034 (1977). Its core objective is to protect the professional rights and interests of engineers engaged in the overall development of Nepal’s rural areas. SERDeN works to strengthen rural infrastructure—home to about 33% of the population and nearly 70% of the country’s land—through sustainable, inclusive, and innovation-driven engineering practices, laying the foundation for long-term economic growth.

The organization promotes appropriate, sustainable, and cost-effective technologies for rural development; encourages research and innovation; advocates for policies that strengthen rural governance; and conducts studies to align national, provincial, and local strategies under the federal system. It also serves as a collaborative forum for rural development. According to the 2021 National Census and the Degree of Urbanisation (DEGURBA) report, 90% of Nepal’s rural population resides in 460 rural municipalities, while the remaining 10% lives in municipalities, sub-metropolitan, and metropolitan cities.

According to the 2021 National Census and the Degree of Urbanisation (DEGURBA) report, 90% of the total rural population resides in 460 rural municipalities, while the remaining 10% lives in municipalities, sub-metropolitan cities, and metropolitan cities. Since rural populations and territories are spread across the entire country, there is a need for a unified national policy and strategy for comprehensive rural development.

SERDeN is dedicated to advancing rural technology and skills, fostering collaboration, and promoting inclusive, transparent, and accountable development practices. It unites engineers from government bodies, development projects, consultancies, construction enterprises, NGOs, international organizations, academic institutions, and the private sector to drive rural transformation through policy, research, and innovation. Its activities include seminars, research, workshops, training, studies, and the publication of technical journals. By leading in rural infrastructure planning, design, implementation, and policy integration, SERDeN strives to ensure quality, accountability, and the achievement of long-term goals.