Kuber Lama, a first cohort alum, taught Math at Shree Satkanya Basic School, Paanchpokhari Thangpal Rural Municipality-3, Sindhupalchowk. Currently, he is a permanent government teacher at Shree Ganesh Secondary School, Gorkha, and serves on the HELP board.

Nitin Shrestha, a first cohort alum, taught English at Shree Satkanya Basic School, Paanchpokhari Thangpal Rural Municipality-3, Sindhupalchowk. He currently teaches at Kopila Valley School, Surkhet.

Saraswoti Basic School, Panchpokhari Thangpal RM, Sindhupalchowk. She later worked as a Teachers Development Coordinator for 3 years.

Jamuna Khokali, a first cohort alumna, taught Science at Shree Golmeshwori Basic School, Panchpokhari Thangpal RM, Sindhupalchowk. She currently works at Yangrima School and as a Trainer/Counselor at Global Oriens Nepal in Pokhara.

Sunita Shrestha taught at Shree Golmesori Basic School, Panchpokhari Thangpal Rural Municipality-6, Taar. She cherishes a saying from one of her teachers: "The class is a garden full of diverse flowers, and you are all distinct flowers for me, each with their own significance." These words have always inspired her to be a student-centered teacher.

From the HELP Saathi Programme, she learned that "the most important thing is to be patient." The programme has boosted her confidence and helped her grow as a leader. Now in her third year as a Saathi, she continues her journey, believing there is more she can contribute to the programme and the children.
 

Sushmita Shrestha taught at Shree Taltule Basic School, Panchpokhari Thangpal Rural Municipality-4, Thangpalkot. She spent her childhood in Melamchi, where she attended public school. One of her biggest challenges in school was speaking in front of a crowd, which often held her back from many opportunities.

She always aspired to be a teacher who encourages students and helps them overcome obstacles. Joining the Saathi Teachers Programme gave her the opportunity to fulfill that role, and the experience transformed her into a more confident and capable person.

Kusum Bharati taught at Shree Bachhalamai Basic School, Panchpokhari Thangpal-6, Lekharkha. She understands the challenges students face due to a weak academic foundation and the struggles that come with it.

Determined to make a difference, she is committed to improving their grade levels while ensuring they meet curriculum requirements.

Karchung Sherpa taught at Shree Saraswati Basic School, Panchpokhari Thangpal-8, Lagarche. She believes in treating every student equally, regardless of their background.

Her goal is to ensure that students in each grade reach the expected academic level, making sure no student falls behind.

Merina Shrestha taught at Shree Bachchalamai Basic School, Lekharka, as a first-cohort Saathi Teacher. She is dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for her students.

Through her experience in the Saathi Teachers Programme, she has grown both personally and professionally, reinforcing her commitment to empowering children with quality education.

Jyoti Adhikari is a first cohort alumna. She taught English at Shree Taltuleshwari BS, Melamchi, Sindhupalchowk. She currently heads the primary wing at Shree Thangpal Valley School, Paanchpokhari Thangpal Rural Municipality-4, Sindhupalchowk.

Sir Bahadur Tamang, a second cohort alum, taught Math at Shree Panchakanya Basic School, Sindhupalchowk. He currently works as a permanent government teacher at Shree Batuki Basic School, Gandaki Rural Municipality, Gorkha.

Aruna Kumal, a second cohort alumna, taught English at Shree Hiradevi Basic School and Shree Golmeshwari Basic School. She is pursuing a Master's in Gender Studies and currently works as a School Leader at Akala Basic School, Markichowk-2, Aanbukhaireni.

Goma Adhikari, a second cohort alumna, taught Math at Shree Saraswati Basic School, Panchpokhari Thangpal RM, Sindhupalchowk. She currently works as a Math Teacher at Shree Bhadrakali Secondary School, Barahbise, Sindhupalchowk.

Gopi Waiba, a second cohort alumna, taught English at Shree Saraswati Basic School, Panchpokhari Thangpal RM, Sindhupalchowk. She currently works as a teacher at Shree Aanpachaur Basic School, Nuwakot.

Yamuna Budhathoki, a second cohort alumna, taught Math at Shree Bachhalamai Basic School, Panchpokhari Thangpal RM, Sindhupalchowk. She is currently working at Angrima Academy in Panchpokhari Thangpal Rural Municipality.

Babeeta Shrestha taught at Shree Pragya Basic School, Melamchi Municipality-7, Bharatithok, Sindhupalchowk. As the eldest daughter in her family and naturally shy, she grew up facing both responsibility and uncertainty. Asking questions in class once felt terrifying, and financial struggles nearly forced her to drop out of school—a memory she considers one of the most difficult for any child to endure.

Grateful for the support of her teachers, who advocated for her education, she now sees her journey as proof that “everything is possible.” Her experiences allow her to connect deeply with rural children in Nepal, whose struggles often mirror her own.

Through the HELP Saathi Programme, she has found a meaningful space to improve the quality of education and work closely with students. As a teacher, she aspires to be a mentor who teaches with kindness and joy—one who inspires rather than intimidates, guiding children toward learning in an engaging and supportive environment.

Sarita Lama teaches at Shree Daduwa Basic School, Melamchi Municipality-11, Daduwa, Sindhupalchowk. Raised by a single mother, her childhood was filled with more struggles than joys. Due to financial hardships, she spent nearly four years in an ashram, caring for abandoned and underprivileged children. Despite these challenges, she returned to her village and persevered to complete her higher studies, continuing to pursue the subjects she is passionate about.

Her academic journey was anything but easy—balancing work and education was a constant struggle. Yet, she remained a fierce and active student, excelling in extracurricular activities. A dedicated athlete, she was recognized for her achievements, even securing first place in a table tennis competition at her college. Education and institutions played a crucial role in shaping her path, fostering both her academic and personal growth.

Believing that education is the key to a successful life, she joined the HELP Saathi Programme to contribute meaningfully to this mission. With years of teaching experience, she now feels an even deeper connection and responsibility as a Saathi teacher. She is committed to sharing not just academic knowledge but also essential life skills, empowering her students to overcome their own challenges and shape a brighter future.

Ganga Tamang teaches at Shree Saraswati Basic School, Panchpokhari Thangpal RM-8, Lagarche, Sindhupalchowk. Raised in a family of six children without a father, her childhood was marked by hardship and resilience. She remembers days of hunger, deprivation, and emotional detachment, as financial struggles strained her family bonds. While her elder siblings had to forgo their education, she was fortunate to receive a scholarship to study at a public school in her village.

Despite the chaos around her, she found solace in learning. Praised by teachers for her academic excellence, she saw true happiness in her mother’s eyes for the first time. That moment solidified her commitment to education. Determined not to let her achievements slip away, she worked tirelessly, earning recognition and support from her teachers, who provided her with books and financial aid.

Her dedication extended beyond academics. She actively participated in extracurricular activities, winning second place in a district-level speech competition and receiving a prize of NRS 4,000—a sum that brought a rare celebration to her home. Balancing part-time work with her higher studies, she often wondered how different her life would have been without the opportunity to learn.

Believing that “one great teacher is better than thousands of books,” she joined the HELP Saathi Programme in 2021 to inspire young students to continue their education. As a Saathi teacher, she is determined to show that dedication and perseverance can turn dreams into reality.

Narayan Poudel teaches Mathematics at Shree Golmeswori Basic School, Panchpokhari Thangpal RM-6, Taar, Sindhupalchowk. Losing his father at an early age, he grew up in a low-income family, facing hardships alongside his mother and sister. Despite the struggles, the unwavering support of these two strong women helped shape his journey.

As a child, he was known for his curiosity and inquisitiveness, though he lacked the confidence to speak in front of a crowd. Completing his schooling at a public school in his village, he relied heavily on the generosity of his teachers, who provided him with stationery his family could not afford. With no other option but to excel, he remained determined to top his class—an achievement that often rewarded him with much-needed school supplies.

While he was disciplined in his studies, he was shy in class, often relying on friends to ask questions on his behalf. Beyond academics, he took pride in household responsibilities, helping with animal husbandry, fetching water from rivers, and making do with whatever food was available. Luxuries were never an expectation—survival and education were his priorities.

His passion for learning intensified when he discovered his love for Mathematics. Despite financial hardships, he persevered—walking long distances to school, wearing donated clothes, and even pleading for admission to continue his education. He saw education as the one tool that could change his future, and with relentless dedication, he secured scholarships and completed his Bachelor’s degree in Education, majoring in Mathematics.

Joining the HELP Saathi Programme in 2021, he found a reflection of himself in many of his students. Committed to quality education, he has dedicated another year to integrating new technology and real-life applications into his Mathematics lessons. With a vision to make learning more engaging and meaningful, he hopes to equip his students with the knowledge and confidence to shape their own futures.

Sushmita BK teaches Mathematics at Shree Hiradevi Basic School, Melamchi Municipality-10, Sikharpur, Sindhupalchowk.

“I lived the toxicity in school because I was a Dalit, but it won’t be the same with my students.”

She vividly remembers the inhuman words directed at her: “Hey, don’t sit there. Go to the back corner of the class because you are a Dalit. You cannot touch anyone.” As a child who simply wanted to learn and make friends, she was instead cast aside—forced to drink water separately, eat lunch alone, and sometimes even stand the entire period while others sat.

Seeking help from teachers brought no relief; some ignored her pleas, while others laughed in her face. Unlike many students who look up to their teachers, Sushmita had none to call her favorite. But despite the discrimination, she refused to let her identity define her limitations. When she topped her class in Mathematics, she realized that hard work and dedication could silence disrespect.

Born and raised in a small village in Sindhupalchowk, she always dreamed of serving her community. Caste discrimination remained a harsh reality, but she refused to let it dictate her future. Her determination to pursue education only grew stronger. One day, while walking near a Gumba, she met a young boy and asked what grade he was in. His response changed her life: “I dropped out because we have schools, but no teachers.”

That moment became her calling. She decided to become the teacher she never had—the teacher every child deserves. Now, as a Math Saathi Teacher 2021 at Hiradevi Basic School, she is not just teaching numbers but also breaking barriers. Her goal is to connect life with Mathematics, proving to her students that knowledge and education—not caste—should define their future.

Bishnu Mijar, a third cohort alumna, taught Math at Shree Mangalamai Secondary School, Tripurasundari-4, Sindhupalchowk. She now works as a government teacher in Ramechhap.

Aruna Shrestha Karki, a third cohort alumna, taught English at Shree Ganesh Basic School, Tripurasundari-2, Sindhupalchowk. She currently works as a Teachers Development Coordinator for the Tripurasundari cluster.

Safina Shrestha, a third cohort alumna, taught Math at Shree Setidevi Basic School, Tripurasundari-1, Sindhupalchowk. She currently works as a Teachers Development Coordinator for the Aanbukhaireni cluster.

Deepika Thapa taught at Shree Laliguras Basic School, Tripurasundari RM-03, Dhuskun, Sindhupalchowk.

Originally from Mahalaxmi-9, Lalitpur, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and beauty, Deepika was a hardworking individual with a keen sense of responsibility. She never felt at ease until she completed her tasks within the deadline. As a student, she was always helpful, and with the guidance of supportive teachers, her confidence grew. She cherished those moments when her teachers’ words became the driving force behind her success.

Inspired by her own educational journey, Deepika became a Saathi Teacher to guide students not only in academics but also in moral values. She believed in shaping young minds by teaching them effective learning strategies and preparing them for success in life. She was eager to understand different learning styles and worked closely with students and their parents, even in challenging situations.

As a Saathi Teacher, she encouraged students to participate in extracurricular activities, boosting their confidence to express themselves freely. She was committed to improving their English communication skills, ensuring they could converse comfortably with teachers and peers. Through dedication and learning, she aspired to make a lasting impact on her students' lives, guiding them toward a brighter future.

Himali Jirel taught at Shree Satkanyadevi Basic School, Panchpokhari Thangpal-4, Bhotang.

She came from the naturally and culturally rich district of Dolakha. As a student, she was talkative, hardworking, and unafraid to raise her hand and ask questions in class. Her confidence led her to participate in various school and college programs. Despite being an extrovert, she had few friends and was more engaged in sports. She joined the Scout and Taekwondo clubs, immersing herself in competitions and securing second place due to her passion for sports.

Her love for sports and arts shaped her into a confident individual with a strong vision. She believed that every student possessed a unique ability to shine, which motivated her to help uncover hidden talents, especially in rural Nepal. As a Saathi Teacher, she had the opportunity to connect deeply with students and support them in building their confidence.

Her two-year journey was not limited to bookish knowledge. She encouraged students to explore, question, and think beyond the classroom. She believed that teachers played a crucial role in guiding students toward a brighter future. Throughout her journey, she collected valuable experiences, built friendships, and shared her life story with fellow Saathi Teachers. She celebrated each day with her students, incorporating creative games using domestic materials, subject-based activities, and singing. She cherished the opportunity to listen to the diverse stories of the beautiful souls she met along the way.

Upama Rai taught at Shree Satkanyadevi Basic School, Panchpokhari Thangpal-04, Bhotang.

She considered herself an average student but always ranked within the top 10 in her class. She did not claim to be extremely hardworking but enjoyed playing as a child. One of her proudest achievements in school was being recognized for her command of English. She vividly remembered a day when her English teacher read her essay on the festival of "Dashain" aloud to the class. That moment filled her with pride and confidence. She had always been an English teacher’s pet, and that recognition reinforced her belief that she could articulate and communicate well in English. Her passion for both grammar and literature played a crucial role in this, though she wished her school had placed more emphasis on English literature. Nonetheless, she made the most of the curriculum available.

Becoming a Saathi Teacher allowed her to explore the public school system in different parts of the country. Having studied in a private school, she was acutely aware of the disparities between private and government schools. She felt privileged to have received a quality education and wanted to contribute, even in a small way, to bridging the gap in educational inequality. She was eager to learn and explore how much children in rural schools could achieve with just a little support and encouragement.

She aimed to complete her journey with the satisfaction that she had sparked a quest for knowledge in her students. She wanted them to discover their potential through hard work and the pursuit of knowledge. Her goal was to make learning enjoyable, instill a passion for education, and raise her students’ awareness of their environment and society.

Bishnu Mijar taught at Shree Mangalamai Secondary School, Tripurasundari RM-4, Piskar, Sindhupalchowk.

He never considered himself to have unique talents, but he found comfort in studying. He was one of those students who loved going to school and learning new things. His academic achievements and participation in quiz contests earned him the nickname “nerd.” He was awarded second position in his District Level Examination and recognized as the Best Student in the Dalit category. His love for books extended beyond course materials—he enjoyed novels, quizzes, newspapers, and articles.

As a recipient of the HELP Scholarship, he gained a range of experiences that helped him continue his education and build professionalism. With over five years of experience working in different organizations, he held various positions, including Field Supervisor for a USAID project and District Project Associate for UNDP. His work in these roles deepened his passion for community service.

Understanding that teaching plays a crucial role in shaping children’s futures, he embarked on his Saathi journey with the hope of making a meaningful impact. He believed that the quality of teaching had the greatest influence on student learning outcomes, even more than socioeconomic background. He also recognized the need to make the teaching profession competitive in order to attract talented and motivated individuals.

His focus during the two-year program was to establish a positive learning environment and improve teaching design and delivery. As a trained SRHR (Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights) educator, he ensured that this subject received due attention in his school. Through his dedication, he aimed to empower his students with knowledge and confidence for a better future.

Sanjay Ramauli Magar taught at Shree Mangalamai Secondary School, Tripurasundari Rural Municipality-4, Piskar.

Born in Sarlahi, located in the Terai region, also known as the Grassland of Nepal, Sanjay was an introverted student in the classroom, although he was friendly with his peers. As an average student, he didn’t feel he achieved anything extraordinary, except for his marks and knowledge. However, he gradually developed a love for the learning process, which fueled his passion for education. He described himself as a learner eager to acquire knowledge to achieve his dreams.

Sanjay saw the Saathi teacher program as an opportunity to embody the qualities of a trained, approachable educator. He believed in creating a friendly learning environment that utilized local resources and practical learning activities, all while considering students' interests and abilities. His desire to become a teacher led him to join the Saathi Teacher program, where he hoped to teach, share his experiences, learn from others, and provide quality education.

Having observed the contrast between modern and traditional education systems, particularly in rural areas, he aimed to broaden the scope of education in his village. He wanted to introduce students to a more modern approach to education that could help them succeed in life.

Throughout his journey, Sanjay committed to giving his best by working hard, fostering awareness of the importance of education, and creating an effective learning environment. He planned to make the most of local resources and engage students with extra-curricular activities to enhance their learning experience. His dedication, passion, and enthusiasm would be the key elements in completing his journey as a Saathi Teacher.

Shiwani Lama taught at Shree Saraswati Basic School, Melamchi-12, Thakle, Sindhupalchowk.

Her childhood was far from typical, having lost her mother at a young age. With two brothers and a grandmother at home, much of the responsibility fell on her shoulders. Despite these challenges, Shiwani became the first in her family to earn a bachelor’s degree. Throughout her struggles, her teachers provided essential guidance and support.

Growing up in a small village in Lalitpur, Bhukel, known for its farming and agriculture, Shiwani developed a strong interest in music, particularly singing. Although she had difficulties at school, particularly with frequently changing teachers, she found that teachers who were patient and supportive helped her develop a love for subjects like Math and English. This experience solidified her belief in the important role teachers play in sparking students’ interest in learning.

Never forgetting her roots, Shiwani felt a deep sense of responsibility to contribute to her community and rural areas. When she learned about the HELP Saathi Programme, she saw it as an opportunity to align her passion with her past experiences. The program allowed her to make a meaningful impact and support students in thinking creatively and expanding their horizons in education.

Her two-year journey as a Saathi Teacher would be one of personal growth and fulfillment, where her love for children and commitment to education would shine. She was eager to continue learning, with the goal of teaching her students in ways that would inspire and engage them.

Chanda Thapa taught at Shree Ganesh Basic School, Tripurasundari RM-02, Latu.

Chanda hailed from the beautiful region of Godavari in Lalitpur, known for its botanical garden and the Godavari temple, which attracted visitors with its cultural significance. In her childhood, she was an obedient and quiet student who struggled with expressing herself in front of a crowd. She recalls a particular moment in school where she found it difficult to speak about her feelings on menstruation, an experience that made her aware of the need for platforms that could help her build confidence and authenticity.

As she grew older, Chanda pursued higher studies in Sociology, where she gained theoretical knowledge that sparked her interest in helping others. Despite her naturally shy nature, she found her voice and comfort while being around children, which led her to become a Saathi Teacher. She saw this as an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children in rural Nepal, helping them foster their knowledge and confidence.

Throughout her two-year journey, Chanda aimed to bring fun into the classroom and build strong relationships within the community, ensuring that the children not only learned but also felt supported and empowered.

Ritu Tamang taught at Shree Daduwa Basic School, Melamchi-11, Daduwa, Sindhupalchowk.

Ritu was always the kind of student who made sure to go to school with her books and copies, attending classes on time and completing her homework diligently. Though she didn’t consider herself to have any major achievements, she cherished every small success. She was especially proud of securing first position in her college's terminal exam, which earned her a scholarship—an accomplishment that was a big moment for both her and her family.

Ritu became a Saathi teacher because of her passion for teaching and education. Since childhood, she had always dreamed of becoming a teacher, and she saw the Saathi program as the perfect opportunity to fulfill that dream. She was driven not only by the profession but by a deep desire to make a difference in the lives of students.

Throughout her journey as a Saathi teacher, Ritu focused on teaching, learning, and giving her best to make the program successful. She aimed to collect valuable experiences and enjoy the process, seeing the journey not as a job but as a meaningful path to personal growth and understanding.

Sita BK taught at Shree Laliguras Basic School, Tripurasundari Rural Municipality-3, Dhuskun.

Born in the peaceful hills of Sindhupalchowk, Nepal, Sita grew up in a Dalit family. Though she wasn’t the most academically gifted student, she faced challenges, particularly with subjects like Mathematics. She remembered feeling abandoned by the community, friends, teachers, and even herself, which caused her fear about her future.

However, her experiences and determination led her to a new phase in life. As an undergraduate, she realized that nothing was impossible. Her desire to provide the best knowledge to the students of rural Nepal became a driving force. Sita had taught at the primary level for some time, but it was not impactful. Joining the Saathi program opened her eyes to the real issue: it wasn’t a lack of knowledge, but a lack of willingness to learn.

The Saathi program became a turning point for her. It allowed her to learn new tools, techniques, and ways of teaching that she had always wanted to explore. As a Saathi teacher, Sita was eager to share her learning, experiences, and knowledge with others. She was committed to giving her best, focusing on enthusiasm, passion, patience, and hard work. Sita aimed to understand her students' psychology and interests, teaching them in a friendly and supportive environment.

Pusparaj Chaudhary taught at Shree Kalika Secondary School, Tripurasundari RM-5, Tekanpur.

Pusparaj spent more than 80% of his life surrounded by the greenery of Nepal. Born in Sanuwal-3, Nawalparasi, a rural area 4 kilometers from Mahendra Highway, he came from a farming family and was well aware of the struggles his family faced. As a child, he was sincere and curious, often studying things in detail. Despite his eagerness to learn, he struggled academically and often had many questions. There was a time when he wasn’t sure if he would ever graduate with a Major in English, especially being from a government school.

However, through persistence and determination, Pusparaj proved the skeptics wrong. He learned that the sky is the limit and began tutoring students, gradually developing his teaching skills. From a young age, he had the aspiration to become a lecturer, a goal he was now on the path to achieving. Joining the Saathi Teacher program was a significant step toward this dream.

Over the next two years, Pusparaj aimed to create lasting memories, learning, teaching, gaining knowledge, and helping his students grow. His journey was not just about teaching, but also about learning through mistakes and setbacks, embracing the idea that "Gaining Knowledge Is Never Complete Without Any Mistakes And Defeat."

Daya Laxmi Duwal taught at Shree Setidevi Basic School, Tripurasundari RM-01, Chokati, Sindhupalchowk.

Daya was born in Chochhen, Bhaktapur, a city known for its vibrant Jatras, festivals, and its rich cultural heritage, including iconic sites like the Fifty-Five Windows Palace, Golden Gate, and the Five-Storied Temple. Bhaktapur is also famous for its delicious food, especially the traditional curd (Ju: Ju dhau).

Throughout her school and college years, Daya was an obedient and punctual student. In 2018, she was awarded the "Best Volunteer of the Year" by a youth organization for her outstanding contributions in helping children in rural Nepal. She also worked with the International Citizen Service (ICS) in Lamjung, partnering with London Volunteers (UK), where she focused on improving education infrastructure for students in rural areas.

Daya joined the Saathi Teachers Programme in 2022 to further explore her talents and contribute to the education of rural students. She has always wanted to give back to children and the community, using her learning and experience to teach and grow with them.

She is committed to dedicating herself fully to the two-year journey as a Saathi Teacher, giving her best to both her students and the community. Daya is grateful for the opportunity provided by the Saathi Teachers Programme and looks forward to the challenges and experiences that will help her grow into a stronger individual.

Santu Jirel taught at Shree Pragya Basic School, Melamchi Municipality-7, Bharatithok.

Santu hails from Dolakha District, in the northeastern part of Nepal, and specifically from Jiri, which is beloved by both locals and tourists for its scenic beauty. Jiri is often referred to as the "Switzerland of Nepal." Santu spent a brief period there before moving to Kathmandu to continue her studies.

As a child, she was shy and quiet, often needing time to come out of her shell. However, her life took a pivotal turn when she organized a campaign at her school called “Break the Silence,” which focused on menstruation. This event marked her first time speaking in front of a crowd, and it became a turning point for her. Motivated by this experience, she realized the power of guidance and support from teachers and role models.

Santu joined the Saathi Teachers Programme with the goal of making a positive impact on students’ lives. She believes that being a consistent guide and support for students can help them overcome challenges. Her strength lies in being cooperative, and she hopes to instill that quality in her students. Throughout her two-year journey as a Saathi Teacher, Santu is committed to contributing the skills, moral values, and experiences that she has gained in life.