The visit of Ms. Maria Belén Zambrano Bermeo, Nepal Projects Manager of ONGD-FNEL Luxembourg, to the Shikharapur Community Learning Center (SCLC) and project sites in Pharping and Indrasarowar Rural Municipality, Makwanpur, was successfully completed on Monday, 3 November 2025. The main objective of the visit was to strengthen collaboration with local stakeholders, assess the progress of ongoing projects, and explore possibilities for future cooperation in the areas of climate action, sustainable agriculture, and community development. The visit was coordinated and accompanied by Mr. Niroj Shrestha, Director of SCLC, Chairperson Mr. Shyam KC, Chief Advisor Mr. Shashi Sharma Aryal, Field Coordinator Mrs. Lalita and Agriculture Technician Ms. Sarita Nagarkoti.
The program began with a warm welcome at the Sheshnarayan Roadside Office of SCLC, where Ms. Maria was greeted by board members, staff, and participants of the Open School. A short introductory session followed, where she interacted with international students from Windesheim Honors College. The discussion focused on their research topics and how their studies could contribute to the ongoing agriculture and environment-focused projects at SCLC. This exchange highlighted the Center’s growing role as a learning hub connecting local and international academic engagement.
Following this, the team traveled to Phakhel, Indrasarowar Rural Municipality Ward No. 4, where they were received by the local Buddhist priest and ward officials. A brief interaction was held with the ward representatives regarding the progress of the baseline climate survey recently conducted under the MECB project. The discussion also included plans for future collaboration with Kalika Technical School, particularly in linking technical education with sustainable farming and climate adaptation initiatives.
At the Indrasarowar Rural Municipality Office in Khanikhet, Ms. Maria was welcomed by the Chairperson, Mr. Dev Krishna Pudasaini, and the municipality team. During the meeting, SCLC shared updates about ongoing project activities and the vision for integrating climate and education-based interventions. The Chairperson and municipal officials expressed their appreciation for ONGD-FNEL and SCLC’s efforts in empowering local communities, promoting environmental awareness, and creating opportunities for livelihood improvement through practical education and sustainability-driven projects.
After a short lunch break, the team proceeded to visit the newly purchased MECB Project Land in Phakhel. Ms. Maria observed the site and discussed its potential for sustainable farming, eco-friendly construction, and biodiversity-focused activities. The team also walked through the area leading toward Kalika School, gaining a better understanding of the surrounding environment and the community context that will influence future project planning.
The visit concluded in the afternoon as the team returned to Pharping and later to Kathmandu. The overall visit was highly productive and meaningful, providing valuable insights into project implementation, stakeholder engagement, and local community needs. It reinforced the strong partnership between ONGD-FNEL Luxembourg and Shikharapur CLC, encouraging both sides to continue working collaboratively toward promoting sustainable, climate-resilient, and community-based development in Nepal.
Report By:
Niroj Shrestha, Director,
SCLC
