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Background

The 2015 earthquakes caused unimaginable destruction in Nepal. Many rural communities were in vulnerable situations before the earthquake. The idea of reconstruction felt unattainable, so many families migrated to the city. The Yangri Valley was no exception.

This is why the future of the Yangri Valley rests on the education of the next generation. To not only provide opportunities for these families but provide options for viable livelihoods in the valley.

Following the initial relief and reconstruction work in the valley, Himalayan Life built a regional school called the Yangri Academic Centre (YAC).

The vision of YAC is to be a school that holds outstanding educational standards and sound pedagogy. A school where teachers are excited about education. Where the potential for both academically talented and challenged students are developed to their full potential. A place where children will discover the sheer joy and excitement of learning.

Cataclysmic Flood in June 2021

In June 2021, a catastrophic flood occurred in the Yangri Valley, destroying several buildings of our beloved school, the Yangri Academic Centre (YAC). Many villages and towns in the valley were severely damaged.

With all bridges swept away, some parents of YAC students risked their lives by crossing the raging river with the help of a rope tied around their waist, just to tell the teachers and the team to not give up on their kids. We won’t give up!

Plans for the new school have already begun.

 

Yangri Academic Centre Quick Facts:

  • Regional School with boarding facilities
  • Located in Yangri, Sindupalchowk, Nepal.
  • Opened in April 2018.
  • Presently operating 8 grades (Lower & Upper Kindergarten, Grades 1 to 7).
  • Enrollment: 184 children.
  • Staff: 30 staff members  (teaching & non-teaching).
  • Incorporated under the Ministry of Education with the Government of Nepal.
  • Flash-flood wiped out many of the school buildings in June 2021.
  • Plans to rebuild the elementary school that was wiped out and build a secondary school alongside it in a new location have begun.
  • Project partner and supervision: HL-Switzerland and HL-Canada.

 

See the latest on how the Yangri Academic Centre has responded to the cataclysmic flood that wiped out much of the school.

 

The Vision of the Yangri Academic Center (YAC)

This school exists to allow children to experience the joy of learning, perhaps for the first time. It is a patient space, allowing children who struggle academically to grow and develop alongside their peers. Students will be equipped for either further education or vocational training. Students will develop into responsible citizens. Those who are willing and able to contribute to society and have a transformative impact on the nation.

Participation

Participation in the local community is extremely important. Locals are involved in the construction and operation of the school. This involves the planning and decision-making stages as well as the construction jobs made available. Work opportunities are being created locally and the people of the Yangri Valley have developed a sense of ownership for YAC. This school is for their children, building the future of their region.

 

Photos courtesy of Peter Schaeublin (www.peterschaeublin.com)