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 also 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). Sadly, in June 2021, a catastrophic flood occurred in the Yangri Valley, destroying several buildings of our beloved school. Many villages and towns in the valley were severely damaged. With all of the 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.
This film highlights how Himalayan Life responded to the 2021 flood and how the Yangri Academic Center was rebuilt.
Rebuilding the Yangri School in Bangdang
After the devastating flood in 2021, Himalayan Life knew we had to rebuild our school at a safer location, further up the valley and far away from the river. In early 2023, we took a major step forward by purchasing 10 acres of land and beginning excavation. Foundations were laid, tools were crafted, and lumber was milled. By April 2024, we held a partial opening ceremony of the new school, where students, parents, staff, and community members came together to celebrate this momentous occasion. Since then, Grades 6–10, about 125 of our 280 students, have moved to the new campus and resumed their studies. With construction progressing steadily, we are on track to complete the new school by the end of 2026!
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. 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 is developed to their full potential. A place where children will discover the sheer joy and excitement of learning.
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.
Yangri Academic Centre Quick Facts:
- Regional School with boarding facilities
- Located in Yangri, Sindupalchowk, Nepal
- Opened in April 2018
- A flash flood wiped out many of the school buildings in June 2021
- Construction for the new Yangri school began in early 2023 in Bangdang, a village further up the Yangri Valley, and it will be completed at the end of 2026
- Presently operating all grades (Lower & Upper Kindergarten, Grades 1 to 10)
- Enrollment: 147 children at the lower campus, 93 children at the upper campus in Bangdang
- Staff: 39 staff members (teaching & non-teaching at both campuses)
- Incorporated under the Ministry of Education with the Government of Nepal
- Project partner and supervision: HL-Switzerland and HL-Canada
Photos courtesy of Peter Schaeublin (www.peterschaeublin.com)
