54 health-groups'll get indoor games in Nepal

Progress Report – Console Mission

Introduction:

When we write a report, it helps us focus more deeply on the project itself. Console Mission Nepal (Co.Mi.) currently runs five interrelated projects on GlobalGiving, each rooted in the organization’s founding vision: learning from lived challenges and transforming them into sustainable solutions for communities.

Co.Mi. was established in 2010, at a time when Nepal had numerous NGOs. Its founders—primarily women who had faced societal challenges firsthand—chose not to replicate existing models but to serve communities directly and indirectly with empathy, resilience, and inclusivity. Despite family responsibilities, they dedicated their time to building an organization that values transparency, learning, and grassroots empowerment.

Learning Phase (2010–2015)

The first five years were envisioned as a learning period. During this time:

• Health and management trainings were conducted, including pre- and post-training activities.
• Co.Mi. engaged with healthcare workers and community members, discovering that illiteracy and lack of formal qualifications often did not prevent individuals from holding important public positions.
• This insight revealed the need for community-based solutions in education, health, security, and peace.

From this foundation, Co.Mi. understood that addressing barriers directly and strengthening local actors would be both cost-effective and sustainable.

Current Focus: Community Learning Centres

Today, Co.Mi. is working in three rural municipalities of Lalitpur District, Nepal, which together have 18 wards. Our vision is to establish three community learning centres per ward—a total of 54 centres.

These centres serve multiple purposes:

• Children’s education: Safe spaces for study and access to resources.
• Community engagement: Venues for meetings, trainings, and collective decision-making.
• Information management: Potential to employ staff for record-keeping and resource management.
• Child empowerment: Strengthening children through availability of educational materials and structured activities.

Most centres currently operate from one rented room, which ensures materials remain safe and accessible.

Role of Games in Child Development

Games are crucial for children’s growth. At our centres, we introduce indoor and group games that combine fun with learning:

• Ludo: Enhances hand–eye coordination and group play.
• Jump rope & tug games: Encourage teamwork, physical activity, and social bonding.
• Carrom Board: A traditional South Asian game that costs about US$ 35 per board.

So far, we have collected only 0.01% of the planned budget, but even small contributions bring joy and learning opportunities to children.

Carrom Board: Dimensions & Benefits

Structure:

• Playing surface: 36 × 36 inches (91 × 91 cm)
• Frame height: 2–2.5 cm above the surface
• Pockets: Four corner pockets, 4.5 cm diameter each

Playing Method:

• Players flick a striker to pocket discs (carrom men).
• Objective: Pocket all assigned pieces and cover the queen.
• Winning: First player/team to pocket all pieces wins.

Benefits for Children:

1. Physical Development – Improves hand–eye coordination, fine motor skills, and reflexes.
2. Mental Growth – Builds concentration, patience, problem-solving, and strategic thinking.
3. Social Skills – Encourages teamwork, communication, sportsmanship, and belonging.

Why Carrom is Ideal:

• Indoor-friendly and safe.
• Inclusive for children of different ages and abilities.
• Affordable and durable.
• Strengthens cultural identity and traditions.

Conclusion

Console Mission Nepal continues to learn, adapt, and grow. From its founding vision in 2010 to today’s focus on community learning centres and child development through education and play, Co.Mi. remains committed to sustainable development, inclusivity, and grassroots empowerment.

Every contribution—whether for a carrom board, educational materials, or training—helps us build stronger communities and brighter futures for children across Nepal.

Donor Message

Even though we do not yet have all 54 centres, with a budget double or triple our current resources, we can inspire the 18 ward chairpersons to begin at least three centres in each ward. Indoor games like carrom and ludo are more than play—they are tools to motivate communities, strengthen children’s learning, and create spaces where education, dialogue, and empowerment come together. These centres are not only community learning hubs; they are foundations for sustainable development and social transformation. Your support can turn this vision into reality.

"Small Games, Big Futures: 54 Centres for Nepal’s Children"

Links:

• Learning centres empower kids through study, games, and debate