Project Observation Report
Date of Visit: 20th May 2025
Visitor: Ms. Maria Belén ZAMBRANO BERMEO, Project Manager, ONGD-FNEL Luxembourg
Location: Shikharapur Community Learning Center (SCLC), Nepal
On 20th May 2025, Ms. Maria Belén ZAMBRANO BERMEO, Project Manager of ONGD-FNEL Luxembourg, visited the Shikharapur CLC Project. The visit began with a Project Discussion and Progress Sharing Meeting. During the session, Ms. Maria shared her valuable insights and recommendations for further development of the Youth and Women Sustainable Agriculture and Climate Action Project (2024–2028).
She then observed various ongoing skill-based training programs at the Alternative Learning Resource Center (ALRC) supported by ONGD-FNEL. These included Computer Training, Mobile Maintenance Training, and Building Electrician Training run in collaboration with Social Development Office Lalitpur and Rukmini Foundation. She also visited the Sewing and Knitting Center, established through training provided by the Government of Nepal’s EVENT Project. Ms. Maria interacted with the trainees, and the participants of the Building Electrician Training presented a practical project, demonstrating their learning outcomes.
Later, she met with international students from Windesheim Honors College, placed at SCLC under the Global Project on Change Management (GPCM). Interestingly, their placement at SCLC was initiated through a recommendation by a scout member who had previously joined a FNEL scout camp in Nepal, organized by ONGD-FNEL itself.
Ms. Maria also visited the Bottle House Sustainable Project run by SCLC with ONGD-FNEL’s support. She observed the vermi-compost production and packaging process and interacted with the trainees about their learning, impacts, and future plans. Ms. Yamuna Basnet from the Agriculture Office and expert Mr. Shishir KC facilitated the discussions around potential markets, municipal strategies, and future planning for farmers in this sector.
In the afternoon, a field visit was organized to Fulchowk Village, focusing on flood recovery initiatives supported by ONGD-FNEL, Windesheim students, and SCLC well-wishers. A total of 90 households were severely affected by the unexpected and untimely flashfloods in September 2024. Among them, the 12 most vulnerable farmers were identified and supported with plastic tunnels to help restore their agricultural activities. Ms. Maria observed the completed tunnel structures and engaged in meaningful interactions with the farmers about their current status and future plans. Mr. Saroj Balami, Secretary of the Tole Development Committee, further briefed her on the extent of destruction, recovery progress, and the urgent needs that still remain within the community.
Despite challenging weather, heavy rains, and muddy roads, the visit was highly successful. It served as an opportunity to showcase model projects, discuss ongoing challenges, and brainstorm future strategies. The visit was deeply appreciated by the community and stakeholders.
ONGD-FNEL and Shikharapur Community Learning Center (SCLC) partnership reflects a shared mission to empower communities through continued learning, sustainable development, and inclusive growth. Together, SCLC has fostered impactful collaborations with local governments, ensuring that resources are utilized effectively and transparently. By promoting shared responsibilities and encouraging active community participation, this alliance has not only strengthened local capacities but also created practical solutions for long-term resilience. Our combined efforts demonstrate how meaningful partnerships can drive positive change—turning ideas into action for the betterment of people, environment, and future generations.
Report by:
Mr. Niroj Shrestha,
Director, SCLC