2022 will be a pivotal year for First Steps Himalaya. We are excited about this turning point in the life of the organisation. Read on as we reflect on where we have come from and where we are heading in the future.
2022 sees the start of a five year institutional development programme which will take First Steps Himalaya’s local partner, First Steps Nepal to a point where it becomes more self-sustaining. This is very exciting as we work alongside our Nepal team to take over the reins of the work on the ground, running efficiently and effectively whilst generating income by offering our professional training services to other organisations. This will ensure the continuity of our work and provide an increasing number of beneficiaries for opportunities though learning.
Since 2009, we have been working with rural Nepali schools to adopt child friendly teaching methods that engage children in their learning, motivate them and encourage creativity.
Siranchour School back at the project start in 2018 ( above left) and more recently (above right). Teachers have attended training and received regular support. They have now adopted child friendly teaching methods. Rather than using traditional rote learning methods where the teacher points to a word on the board and the children repeat without understanding the meaning, Siranchour School teachers now read stories to the children, ask questions and get them thinking about what they are learning.
Evolution of teaching at Golma Devi School, Jitpur
Before, 2010
Classrooms now
There have been enormous changes over the years at Golma Devi School in Jitpur, Sindhupalchok (above). From what was a dirty, broken down school in 2010, the school now offers nurturing classrooms and child friendly teaching.
A Nuwakot school improves
Before
Before
Above: Shree Pragitsheel School in Nuwakot was operating out of a post earthquake temporary shelter when First Steps Himalaya were asked to help in 2018. We rebuilt the school using our earthbag building methods and have since fitted out the classrooms and trained and supported the teachers. The difference is amazing! Check out the improvements!
Shree Pragitsheel School now
Shree Pragitsheel School now
The biggest transformation has been at our first early childhood centre in Sangachok, where children who used to sit all day in dilapidated classrooms with little understanding of what they were supposed to be learning, now come to school curious and excited about what they might do each day. Not only do they make educational gains but there is a knock on effect on the whole family as parents begin to see the importance of playing with their children, giving them more nutritious food and keeping them clean and tidy.
Before
After
We welcome all that 2022 will bring and look forward to turning challenges into opportunities as the journey continues.
For more information visit www.firststepshimalaya.org
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