June 17, 2024 – A Day to Remember
Nestled in the rugged terrain of Karnali Province, Shree Malika Primary School stands as a testament to resilience and determination. Located in Shivalaya Rural Municipality, Sungurkhal-06, Jajarkot, the school has been a beacon of hope for 120 students from Nursery to Grade 5. However, the journey here is not for the faint-hearted. A 25 – hour road travel from Kathmandu reveals a world far removed from the comforts of urban life.
In the wake of the devastating earthquake of November 2023, the students of Shree Malika were left to study under precarious roofs and cracked buildings. The challenges were immense: no access to electricity, clean drinking water, or proper teaching materials. The road to the Sungurkhal Village is treacherous and seasonal, and basic hygiene facilities are virtually non-existent. The steep hill bordering one side of the school adds a layer of danger, making the environment even more challenging.
A New Dawn with UV Protected, Fire-Inflammable Fiber Tents
But today marks a new chapter for Shree Malika Primary School. Thanks to the efforts of the all the supporter, five newclasses of UV protected, fire-inflammable fiber tents with metal bodies have been constructed. These sturdy and safe structures were built with the support of various generous donors and supporters, including Lara (Col-lectiu Ronda), Nilufer Shaikh, Yazdi Jehangir Bankwala, Moha Creatives, Tejwasi Karki, Namuna Bhusal, Keep Tuladhar, Navraj Moktan (Vok Mantra) and anonymous with coordination by the SWC.
Voices of Hope and Gratitude
Hasta Bhadur Rokaya, the principal of Shree Malika, expressed his relief and gratitude: “At least children can stay under a roof in sunny days and in the rainfall season. We also feel safe inside in the newly set-up building.” His words resonate deeply, reflecting the immense impact of this initiative on the lives of both students and teachers.
Nirmal Khatri, the project leader, shared his poignant observations: “I have been to many rural parts, but this is really shocking. Sungurkhal seems like a century behind in terms of modern development in comparison to Kathmandu. People are struggling just to survive here. Happy to contribute from our side.”
Building a Future, One Step at a Time
This project is more than just a construction effort; it is a symbol of hope, resilience, and the power of community. The new tents provide a safe and conducive learning environment, allowing the children of Shree Malika to focus on their education without the fear of structural collapse or exposure to the elements.
Acknowledgments
The success of this project is a collective achievement. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the supporters and contributors who made this possible. Lara, Nilufer Shaikh, Yazdi Jehangir Bankwala, Moha Creatives, Tejwasi Karki, Namuna Bhusal, Keep Tuladhar, Navraj Moktan, and SWC have played pivotal roles in bringing this dream to fruition.
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, the Community Innovation Organisation remains committed to bringing sustainable and impactful changes to rural communities. Shree Malika Primary School is just one example of what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause. We are inspired by the resilience of the Sungurkhal community and motivated to continue our efforts in creating a brighter future for all.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Your support can make a world of difference. Join us in our mission to uplift rural communities and provide better opportunities for those in need. Together, we can turn challenges into triumphs and build a brighter tomorrow for the children of Shree Malika Primary School and beyond.