New Skills for a Changing Nepal

Reported by Sirjana Waiba

On August 2, the Shikharapur Balcony Hall was full. Forty six young people came forward to receive their certificates. They had just completed a Computer Training Program organized by Rukmini Foundation and Shikharapur Agriculture Learning Resource Center (ALRC).

The training ran for several weeks. It covered computer fundamentals, Microsoft Office, basic Artificial Intelligence, Canva, English typing, and Nepali typing. Out of 54 students who enrolled, 46 completed the program by meeting the minimum attendance requirement.

The room was filled with smiles, applause, and proud family members. But the celebration was about more than certificates.

Why This Program Exists

The time after the SEE exams is a difficult period for many young people in Nepal. They have finished school but have not yet started college. Many sit at home with nothing to do. Some lose their study habits. Others feel unsure about what comes next.

We wanted to use this time well. That is why we started this training program. The goal was to give young people practical skills they can use right away, whether in further studies or in a job.

The objectives of the program were:

• To enhance digital literacy among youth

• To develop practical computer skills for education and future employment

• To encourage productive use of the time after SEE exams

• To promote responsible and safe use of digital technology

• To foster youth leadership, collaboration, and community engagement

• To recognize participants' commitment through certificate distribution

What the Students Learned

The training was hands on. Students practiced on computers every day. They learned how to write documents, make presentations, and manage spreadsheets. They learned how to use Canva to design posters and social media posts. They learned basic AI tools. They also learned typing in both English and Nepali.

For many of them, this was their first real experience with a computer. By the end, they were confident.

A Student's Words

Ms. Shristi Tamang spoke on behalf of the graduates. She shared that the program improved her computer skills and gave her the chance to meet students from different schools.

She said that what began as a classroom of strangers became a group of supportive friends. They learned together, encouraged each other, and made lasting memories.

Her words showed the real impact of the program. It was not just about computers. It was about confidence, friendship, and feeling ready for the future.

Guests Who Encouraged the Graduates

Several guests spoke at the ceremony.

Mr. Niroj Shrestha from Shikharapur ALRC welcomed everyone. He said the training was started to help young people gain practical skills, not to increase enrollment at any campus. He encouraged the graduates to keep learning new technologies.

Mr. Sashi Sharma Aryal from Rukmini Foundation noted that the training was led by a BSc IT graduate. She encouraged students to keep building their digital skills with confidence and curiosity.

Mr. Laxman Dahal, Education, Youth and Sports Section Officer, said the program was an excellent platform for young people to develop their potential. He encouraged them to consider studying at local institutions when possible.

Mr. Shyam Bahadur KC stressed the importance of literacy, lifelong learning, and community participation.

Ms. Lalita Lamichhane, Coordinator of Shikharapur CLC, congratulated the graduates. She reminded them to use social media responsibly and to keep pace with changing technology.

Learning That Goes Beyond the Classroom

After the certificate ceremony, the graduates did something that showed the spirit of the program. Together with Ward No. 7, they organized a community cleanliness drive. They collected waste from the surrounding area.

This was not part of the training. They chose to do it. It showed that education is not only about personal gain. It is also about giving back to the community.

The celebration also included cultural performances. Sandesh B.K. sang a heartfelt song. Anuja Tamang and Jenisha Tamang performed a Newari dance. These performances added warmth and joy to the day.

Why This Matters for Resilience

When we talk about resilience, we are not only talking about how people respond to disasters. We are talking about how communities prepare for the future.

A young person with computer skills can find work. They can support their family. They can help a small business grow. They can teach others what they know. Over time, these skills spread through the community.

This is how resilience is built. Not in one big moment, but in many small steps. One student learns to type. Another learns to design. Another learns to use AI tools. Each one adds something to the community.

When a crisis comes, communities with skills are better prepared. They can adapt. They can rebuild. They can help each other.

Looking Ahead: The "Techknowledgy" Center

This program is just the beginning.

We are working on plans for a "Techknowledgy" Center. The name is intentional. It is more than a computer lab. It will be a place where young people and community members can learn many kinds of skills.

The center will offer computer training and high tech skills for future careers. It will also host programs in pickling, organic farming, self defense, mental health, and more. It will be a place where learning takes many forms.

We want this center to serve students who have finished high school. We want it to help them gain skills for work. We also want it to create economic opportunities for others in the community. A mother who learns pickling can start a small business. A young man who learns organic farming can improve his family's land. A girl who learns self defense can walk to school with more confidence.

The "Techknowledgy" Center will bring all of this together under one roof.

Thank You

This program was possible because of our partnership with Shikharapur Agriculture Learning Resource Center. We thank them for their collaboration and support.

We also thank the local government officials, community representatives, and trainers who made this program a success.

And we thank our donors and supporters. Your generosity allows us to keep creating opportunities for young people in Nepal.

What Comes Next

The 46 graduates of this program are now better prepared for their future. Some will continue their studies. Some will look for work. Some will use their new skills to help their families.

We will keep supporting them. And we will keep building programs that prepare young people for the challenges ahead.

If you would like to support our work, please visit [donation link]. Together, we can help more young people gain the skills they need to build a stronger Nepal.

Reported by Sirjana Waiba