In line with SDG 4, Quality Education, we strive to promote learning opportunities and improve learning environments. We work collaboratively with local partners to upskill and empower members of the local community, increasing opportunities for further learning or for employment.
In 2019 we facilitated research training with Dr. Brian McAllister for partners including Skylark Himalayan Tours, Sasane, and HART. 20 local participants spent five days learning about research techniques which could then be implemented in their organizations. We supported English language sessions and skill development workshops for women across three communities every week. This catered for an average of 30 women per week in small group sessions. One highlight in the year was training a group of women to develop fundraising events, this culminated with an event run by 25 local women which raised funds to support women in the community. We supported English, Maths, and Health sessions across two small semi-rural government schools each week. This took the form of in-class support for teachers. Each school has around 55 students and 4 teachers. Our health education included First aid sessions for teachers and older students as well as hand and teeth hygiene sessions for the junior grades at each of these schools.
In improving facilities, we worked in partnership with three government schools. Approximately 500 students and their teachers benefitted. We sponsored the building of over 30 desks for students and staff and 10 storage units for books and bag storage. We also repaired and repainted 12 classrooms and 14 noticeboards. We also supported the conversion of a storeroom into a functioning library benefiting a school of 56 students. Our support also resulted in the building of two waste management areas and two new toilet block facilities.