(written by Bishnu Bhatta, PSD Nepal)
In the busy corners of Kathmandu and surrounding areas, many families earn their living by sorting and collecting waste. Among them are bright, curious children whose futures were once overshadowed by poverty and social stigma. Through the generous support of The Unforgotten Fund, PSD Nepal continues to uplift the lives of 21 children from waste picker families in Kathmandu and Lalitpur. These children, who once faced barriers to education and a lack of stable care, now attend school regularly and receive daily learning support at our community-based Learning Center. The center provides tutoring, nutritious mid-day meals, hygiene care, and a safe, nurturing environment that fosters both academic and emotional growth. Beyond education, the children engage in creative activities such as art, storytelling, and music, helping them build confidence and social skills. Parents are also regularly engaged through meetings and awareness sessions, creating stronger family commitment to their children’s education.
The transformation of these children over the past year has been remarkable.
- Pravash Rai, once shy and hesitant, has now blossomed into a confident learner. He stood first in his Nursery class, and his school has offered him a 50% scholarship this year as recognition of his effort. His mother, who works tirelessly sorting recyclable waste, proudly shares that Pravash now teaches her English words at home.
- Sushmita Nepali, a Grade 4 student, always in top 5, has shown tremendous improvement in reading and writing. Once struggling to keep up, she now completes her homework with enthusiasm and regularly helps younger children at the center.
- Sunil and Amit Chaudhary, brothers in Grades 4 and 3, had a difficult start. They often skipped school and engaged in petty mischief like stealing small items. Understanding their struggles, our team at PSD Nepal introduced a lunch program incentive scheme to motivate them. The change was immediate — they now attend school regularly, participate actively in learning center sessions, and show growing discipline and curiosity.
- Yojan Magar, a bright Grade 2 student, continues to excel academically. His father, who works at the Thulo Bharyang dumping site, proudly says, “My son will not have to work like me. He will study and make a better life.”
- Kristina nepali, Kristina Nepali, one of the students supported through PSD Nepal’s Learning Center, is studying at Tilingtar Ma Vi. Over the past year, she has shown steady academic improvement and greater confidence in class participation. With regular attendance, guidance from the center’s tutors, and encouragement from her mother, Kristina successfully completed Grade 3 and has now advanced to Grade 4. Her progress reflects the positive impact of consistent educational support and a nurturing learning environment provided by the program.
Through consistent care, nutritional support, and after-school learning activities, these children are beginning to rewrite their stories. The Learning Center also provides psychosocial support, hygiene awareness, and recreational sessions, ensuring holistic growth beyond classroom learning.
