Shreeram KC Phutunge, a resident of Phutung village the institute is named after, is an active member of local civil society. He is a communications professional with over 20 years of experience in development, humanitarian and media sectors. With an MPhil and master’s in mass communication and journalism, his career spans roles from community-based organisations, media and local NGOs to international organisation, where he built the strong foundation of communications, brand and visibility. He has vast experience working in the most challenging countries for scaling up the humanitarian response through communications.  

Apart from his professional career, he is actively involved with several organizations in Nepal on a volunteer basis, including NEPAN, Social Circle, T-Podcast, Manamaiju Cultural Society, and Lifelong Learning Centre. He is also an accomplished author, having written a book about Phutung, a historic community, along with hundreds of articles and stories. Additionally, he has served as an editor for numerous publications. He is also a seasoned producer of development films, documentaries and communications products for wide range of audiences.