On November 14, 2024, Maria Belén Zambrano Bermeo, Nepal Projects Manager, visited Shikharapur Community Learning Center (SCLC) and its project sites in Pharping Kathmandu and Makwanpur. The visit showcased the collaborative efforts between SCLC, ONGD-FNEL, and local stakeholders in fostering education, sustainability, and community empowerment.
At SCLC’s Sheshnarayan office, Maria was introduced to the Open School program, which provides accessible education for marginalized people mainly school dropouts. She commended the program’s innovative approach to bridging educational gaps and promoting inclusivity. During her visit to the eco-friendly Bottle House, she interacted with entrepreneur farmers and residential students, gaining insights into their experiences in sustainable farming and entrepreneurship. This project’s combination of environmental sustainability and practical training impressed Maria, who praised it as a model for community-driven development. “The Bottle House is a brilliant example of how creativity and sustainability can transform communities. It’s not just a structure; it’s a symbol of innovation and resilience,”said Ms. Maria during her visit.
Maria also visited the Agriculture Learning Resource Center (ALRC), supported by ONGD-FNEL, and Kalika Secondary/Technical School, a partner institution. Both facilities highlighted the importance of practical, skill-based education in empowering youth and strengthening local partnerships. Discussions with local government and school representatives underscored the collaborative efforts in technical education, including internships and academic development supported by SCLC.
The visit concluded with a trip to the newly acquired land in Phakhel, Makwanpur, envisioned as a hub for sustainable farming and biodiversity conservation. The land has been acquired to launch a new project, funded by Luxembourg’s Ministry of Environment, Climate, and Biodiversity (MECB) through ONGD-FNEL, aimed at fostering sustainable development and community resilience. Maria expressed her appreciation for SCLC’s innovative and community-centric projects, emphasizing their alignment with global sustainability goals. Her visit reaffirmed the importance of partnerships, innovation, and shared vision in creating lasting positive impacts in the region.
Web news by:
Niroj Shrestha, Director, SCLC
