Himanchal Education Foundation - Fall 2023 Update
Welcome to the latest edition of the Himanchal Education Foundation (HEF) newsletter. As autumn unfolds, we are excited to share the ongoing impact of your support in the communities we serve in Nepal. In June 2023, HEF Board member Bhim Rai, alongside a business intern, four Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) students, and three Nepal National Innovation Center (NIC) students, visited the communities of Pokhara, Nangi, and Mohare. Their journey revealed inspiring developments and emerging needs in our educational initiatives.
Educational Milestones: Nurturing Future Leaders
HEF supported Nangi High School, currently educating over 200 students, is a testament to the power of community and education. Bhim’s visit underlined a crucial requirement: the expansion of the school's activity area. This development is envisioned to not only provide more space for our students but also to host regional athletic events, fostering a spirit of healthy competition and camaraderie.
Project #1: Summit View Recreational Area
An expansive,multi-functional space designed for sports, wellness, adn community events,offering students a vibrant hub for physical activity and social participation.
Complementing these advancements, the lodge plans to add two new buildings, taking advantage of its accessibility to popular hiking trails. A notable challenge in this development is the lodge's off-grid status, which necessitates a more robust solar power system, especially for pumping water uphill efficiently. This situation emphasizes the need for sustainable energy solutions that align with the lodge’s commitment to eco-tourism and community growth.
Project #2: Solar-Powered Water System
An innovative solar energy project dedicated to efficient water pumping for the Mohare trekking and lodges, enhancing sustainability, and supporting eco-friendly tourism.
A Story of Inspiration: Ajay Rai's Testimonial
In an evocative testimonial, HEF Board member Ajay Rai, who visited Nepal in 2022, shares his transformative journey from a University of Nebraska at Kearney student to becoming a part of Himanchal Education Foundation's mission. His story is a testament to the power of education and the spirit of giving back to one's roots.
As a UNK student , I feel proud of the great education I received while attending UNK. I was able to gain knowledge and wisdom from all the faculties and the whole campus culture. I felt at that time UNK set a very welcoming environment for foreign students like myself to feel at home. I was always inspired by all my professors and fellow students. I appreciate everything he has done. I am grateful for the wonderful four and a half years I had in UNK and will cherish it forever. In Addition, having come to know Mahabir Dai (Dai meaning big brother in Nepali language ) was a blessing. It was great to know his views of getting educated in a place like America and going back to this homeland for the practical use of his learnings for the benefits of the rural villages of Nepal - AJAI RAI
A Story of Dedication: Mahabir’s Autobiography
Memories, Dreams, and Endless Travel
In a significant contribution to our cause, Mahabir has published an autobiography in Nepali, with sales proceeds going towards renovating the Agriculture Tools Factory near the India border. This factory, idle for decades, represents an opportunity for economic and community revivalL
Except from ‘Memories, Dreams, and Endless Travel’
But the geographical scenery that enchants travelers can become a cause of poverty for local residents. Little did I know that as I gazed mesmerized at the towering snow peaks, I was also looking at an impending economic and environmental disaster. The farmers who were struggling to make ends meet were farming and the forests were being destroyed. There was no way for them to earn money, only a few people could send their children to school, and it seemed that the cycle would never end. Mahabir Pun, who returned from studying in America, saw the only way to break that vicious circle - to educate the village children and start income generation programs in the villages as much as possible...
Thank you for your continuous support and belief in our mission. Warm regards, The Himanchal Education Foundation Team
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