Changing Stories Nepal Fundraiser

Changing Stories Nepal is a non-profit organization that supports academically struggling students to catch up to their grade level through Accelerated Learning Courses. The students we work with go to public schools and, despite studying at Grade 5, lack foundational literacy and numeracy skills. Going to school for more than 5 years but still not being able to read a paragraph in Nepali or English and do basic mathematics is not only a waste of their time but also a waste of opportunity. Without literacy and numeracy skills, completing even primary education is a huge challenge.

In Nepal, out of 100 students enrolled in Grade 1, 19% drop out before even completing 5th grade (DOE Nepal). From a survey conducted in early 2021, we found that 80.3% of 1,462 students from grades 3, 4, and 5 could not do one-digit multiplication and 40.42% of students could not read a single word of Nepali. For most students, catching up to their grade level requirements on time could be the difference between staying in school or dropping out. Graduating from school could change their whole life!

Changing Stories Nepal is raising $7000 to run Accelerated Learning Courses for 800 students in Western Nepal. The year-long course will give enrolled students an opportunity to master basic literacy and numeracy skills. The classes are delivered through child-friendly activities like games and songs to facilitate learning and to keep the students engaged. The course is implemented by Fellows, ambitious local youths, hired from the local community. Fellows contribute 2 hours of their time before or after regular school hours and will be paired with 20 students to ensure that every kid gets equal attention. These classes are designed with the risks of the pandemic in mind, so all precautionary measures will be taken to ensure the safety of the students and fellows.

A little bit of effort from all of us can help these kids stay in school, paving the path for higher education, and giving them the future they deserve.