written by Bishnu Bhatta, director of PSD-Nepal
This summer, PSD Nepal, in collaboration with Bond Aid, welcomed 16 motivated volunteers from Bond University, Australia, to the picturesque yet challenging rural village of Harmi, Gorkha. Their goal was simple yet profound: to uplift the community by enhancing the village’s educational infrastructure and sowing the seeds of sustainable change.
The Bond Aid team began their journey with an intensive two-day orientation in Kathmandu, preparing them for the challenges ahead. They learned not only about safety and hygiene but also delved into the cultural norms and basic Nepali language skills that would help them integrate into Harmi’s close-knit community. When they arrived in the village, they were greeted with warmth and excitement by the locals, who welcomed them as part of their extended family.
For two weeks, the volunteers worked tirelessly at two schools—Bigyan Primary and Mahendra Lila Higher Secondary. At Bigyan, the transformation was striking: the volunteers leveled and labeled the school grounds, laid block pavements, planted a vegetable garden, and led playful yet educational activities for the children. At Mahendra Lila, they plastered and painted walls, built new stairs, and organized sports and health classes. Their work wasn’t just physical; it also addressed the educational and well-being needs of the students, fostering an environment where learning and personal growth could thrive.
Beyond their work, the volunteers became an integral part of the Harmi community. They lived with local families, sharing meals, stories, and laughter—breaking down cultural barriers and building deep connections. Children eagerly joined in on school improvement activities, curious and excited to learn new things. The volunteers, in turn, felt the enriching power of cross-cultural exchange—learning as much from the community as they contributed.
The impact of their efforts will resonate in Harmi for years to come—improved school infrastructure, a healthier environment, and the knowledge shared through health and hygiene workshops. But the legacy of this program goes beyond the tangible improvements: it’s found in the enduring friendships, the broadened perspectives, and the sense of unity between people from opposite ends of the world.
This project, part of PSD Nepal’s larger effort to connect young international volunteers with rural communities, truly exemplified the power of collaboration in making meaningful, sustainable change. For the people of Harmi, and the volunteers from Bond Aid, it was not just a summer project—it was a life-changing experience.
