World Vision Nepal

When Laxmi was eight years old she decided to quit studying, like all her older sisters did after they finished primary schooling. Today, Laxmi is not only pursuing higher studies but also tutoring deprived children like her in the recreational classes she attended for many years.

On 9 July 2010, World Vision International Nepal (WVIN) launched two books, Guidebook to ensure Child Participation and Protection in Local Institutions and at the Community Level; and Minimum Standards for Education in Emergencies, Chronic Crises and Early Reconstruction (A Nepali version).

Tul Prashad Chaudhary, 6, was once a severely malnourished and pitifully fragile child. Two years later, he is happy and healthy child, whose parents now know about child nutrition, hygiene and care.

Playing a melodic tune on the basuri sur (local flute), Bikram is transported back to the days when he yearned to supplement his family’s income, not realising how important education was for him. At the age of 12, going to school was not his priority; supporting his father in their ancestral earthen pottery business was all he wanted to do. He did not see the relevance of the classes he attended during the fifth standard in a nearby primary school.

Once women living in rural Nepal thought they were to blame for getting sexually transmitted diseases and HIV. They suffered in silence, were held hostage to superstitious practices and used makeshift remedies as mud or mustard for treatment.  But together they are learning to stand up for themselves and to speak out on taboo topics to get the proper care and the protection they need.

Sanchita, Manahar and Santosh are among the many young students are in the 13-16 year age group of Bode Higher Secondary School who are now open to discussing HIV and AIDS without any reservations and have been the mouthpiece for behavioural change in their communities.