Improve education for Nepali girls and minorities

We’re excited to continue our teacher training program focused on reading aloud to children. Following some success last year in the pilot version of the training in Kavre district, we will work with those same schools again along with new schools in a nearby district, Nuwakot.

After talking with teachers, students and parents at the 13 participating schools, we have identified their primary need as improving the learning environment. To help make classrooms more stimulating, we will provide materials that encourage learning through play.

The training will emphasize learning experiences outside the classroom. A traditional school field trip is still somewhat of a novel concept at most government-run schools in rural areas of Nepal where we work.

For children, the training program is designed to promote basic reading skills and enjoyment of books. The training will include instruction for teachers about the different learning styles and needs of their students.

We have worked with teachers, parents, school management committees and local government officials to develop the training curriculum. Educating parents about reading is critical to the success of the program. We’ve also reached out to some other local organizations working in early childhood development and the creative arts.

Publishers based in the Kathmandu Valley have donated nearly 500 books (in both Nepali and English) which we will distribute to the 13 schools along with classroom materials like blocks, puppets, flashcards, colored paper and posters. We also will provide classrooms with reading tables and chairs, carpets, cushions and painting materials.

The items will be delivered after the monsoon season, in late September and early October. Training sessions will take place from October through February.