Our theme for September is gratitude – and, by extension, how those of us who are relatively fortunate can really make a difference in the lives of those who have fewer advantages.
Most of us can be grateful that our children’s school buildings are structurally safe and weatherproof, that the classrooms are reasonably well-furnished, and that the teachers have been adequately trained in their respective subjects and will show up to teach. Those very basic expectations are often not met in rural Nepal.
On the day this first photo was taken, these sixth-grade students had no teacher because theirs had taken another job for that day. Notice also the pile of broken furniture in the back of the room, and the generally unappealing classroom environment. And this classroom isn’t even one of the worst ones: at least the walls and floor seem to be in good condition, although those windows must let in some wind and rain.
ETC’s work in the schools improves the educational environment in many ways: by making structural improvements, by providing furniture and classroom materials, and by training teachers. All of this, made possible with YOUR generous support, leads to a better educational experience for thousands of children every year. Thank you!
