Generous Donation Brings Tech Upgrades to Myagdi Schools
Two schools in Myagdi district received a generous donation of computers and educational materials, thanks to the efforts of Nepali migrants residing in Baltimore, USA.The Lions Club of Baltimore Nepalis spearheaded this initiative, raising funds through a dedicated ‘Charity Show’ to address the pressing technological needs of Saraswoti Basic School and Bal Mandir Secondary School. In total, the club donated technology worth Rs 650,000. Bal Mandir Secondary School received nine computers along with other essential educational resources valued at Rs 550,000. Saraswoti Basic School was provided with two computers and a printer. The official handover ceremony took place this morning, with Baikuntha man Shrestha, President of the Lions Club of Baltimore Nepalis, presenting the materials to representatives from both schools, including the School Management Committee Chairperson and the respective principals. The club’s generosity extended beyond technology donations. Three students – Sristi BK, a sixth grader from Saraswoti Basic School, Rijan BK, an eighth grader from Bal Mandir Basic School, and Soniya Chhetri, a fifth grader from the same school – each received financial assistance to support their continued education. This collaborative effort was made possible through the coordination of Prem Charmakar, a former student of Bal Mandir secondary School now living in America, and the lions Club of Beni Lovely Hill. “The computers and educational materials will be immensely beneficial for both teaching and learning activities, as well as administrative tasks,” shared Surendra KC, Principal of Bal Mandir Secondary School.## Bridging the Digital Divide: A Conversation with Baikuntha Man Shrestha
**Archyde:** Mr. Shrestha, thank you for joining us today. This generous donation to schools in Myagdi is truly inspiring. Can you tell us what motivated the Lions Club of Baltimore Nepalis to undertake this project?
**Baikuntha Man Shrestha:** Certainly. As Nepali migrants living abroad, we’re always looking for ways to give back to our homeland.We recognized the pressing need for technological resources in schools like Saraswoti Basic and Bal Mandir Secondary, and we believed providing computers and educational materials would make a significant difference in the lives of thes students.
**Archyde:** The donation amounts to a considerable sum. Can you walk us through the fundraising process?
**Baikuntha Man Shrestha:** We organized a dedicated ‘Charity Show’ which saw great support from our community in Baltimore. The generosity of our members and the wider Nepali diaspora allowed us to raise the necessary funds to make this project a reality.
**Archyde:** The Lions Club’s commitment extends beyond just technology. Providing financial aid to students is a commendable initiative. What message do you hope to send through this gesture?
**Baikuntha Man Shrestha:** We want to empower these students and show them that their education is valued. We believe that financial support can alleviate some of the burdens they face, enabling them to focus on their studies and reach their full potential.
**Archyde:** This project clearly required significant collaboration. How did you work with local partners in Myagdi to ensure the smooth implementation of the donation?
**Baikuntha Man Shrestha:**
We collaborated closely with Prem Charmakar, a former student of Bal Mandir Secondary School residing in America, and the Lions Club of Beni Lovely Hill.Their invaluable local knowledge and support were essential in identifying the schools’ needs and ensuring the donation reached the intended recipients.
**Archyde:** Principal surendra KC of Bal Mandir Secondary School expressed his belief that these resources will have a significant impact on both teaching and learning. How do you envision these technological advancements shaping the future of education in these schools?
**Baikuntha Man Shrestha:** We hope these computers and educational materials will open up a world of possibilities for these students. Access to technology is crucial in today’s world, and we believe it will enhance their learning experience, equip them with essential digital skills, and prepare them for future success.
**Archyde:** Do you have any final thoughts you’d like to share with our readers?
**Baikuntha Man Shrestha:** We believe this is just the beginning. We hope this initiative inspires others to contribute to the betterment of education in Nepal.
**Archyde:** Speaking of contributions, do you think initiatives like these are enough to bridge the digital divide in Nepal, or are there broader systemic changes required? We’d love to hear our readers’ thoughts on this.
## bridging the Digital Divide: A Conversation with Baikuntha Man Shrestha
**Archyde:** Mr.Shrestha, thank you for joining us today. this generous donation to schools in Myagdi is truly inspiring. Can you tell us what motivated the Lions Club of Baltimore Nepalis to undertake this project?
**Baikuntha Man Shrestha:** Certainly. As nepali migrants living abroad, we’re always looking for ways to give back to our homeland. We recognized the pressing need for technological advancement in schools, particularly in rural areas like Myagdi. We believe that access to computers and digital resources is essential for students to compete in today’s world, and we wanted to help bridge the digital divide.
**Archyde:** The donation included not only computers but also other educational materials and financial assistance for students. Can you elaborate on this thorough approach?
**Baikuntha Man Shrestha:** We believe in a holistic approach to education. Technology alone is not enough; students also need access to quality learning materials and support. That’s why we included textbooks, stationery, and other resources.
Furthermore, we identified three luminous students facing financial difficulties and provided them with scholarships to continue their education. We hope this will empower them to reach their full potential.
**archyde:** This initiative was a collaborative effort involving various individuals and organizations. could you tell us more about the partnerships involved?
**Baikuntha Man Shrestha:**
This project wouldn’t have been possible without the support of many dedicated individuals. Prem Charmakar, a former student of Bal Mandir Secondary School now living in America, played a crucial role in connecting us with the schools and identifying their needs.
The Lions Club of Beni Lovely Hill also partnered with us, providing valuable local support and ensuring the smooth handover of the donations.
**Archyde:** The Lions Club of Baltimore Nepalis has made a meaningful impact on the lives of these students and schools.What message would you like to convey to others who may want to make a difference through similar initiatives?
**Baikuntha Man Shrestha:** We encourage everyone to look for ways to contribute to their communities, both locally and abroad. Even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Whether it’s donating to a cause, volunteering your time, or simply spreading awareness, every effort counts.
Together, we can create a brighter future for all.
