Amelie Dahal, Communications Associat CORN
Neeti Pradhan, Communications Manager CORN
Date Published
Estimated Reading Time
6 mins
“Every child has the right to dream, learn, and excel.”
Yet, in Nepal, the education system often emphasizes memorization over creativity. Exams reward rote learning, while critical thinking, problem-solving, and creative expression are rarely nurtured. At Calls Over Ridges Nepal (CORN), we believe that giving students the space to imagine, create, and express themselves is essential for holistic development.
“Students thrive when given opportunities to let out their imagination,” reflects Ang Bawa Sherpa, Head Teacher
Photo: CORN
With this vision, CORN recently organized a ten-day basketball and music training in two schools in Jiri, alongside a two-day creative writing workshop at Bauddha Bhuwaneshwari Secondary School. Despite the persistent rain, the students arrived each day brimming with energy, curiosity, and a desire to learn.
Photo: CORN
Photo: CORN
Joyful Learning, Sparking Creativity
In music class, students eagerly practiced pianica and guitar. While the first day was filled with off-key notes, by the end, everyone was harmonizing together. On the basketball court, students played with enthusiasm and teamwork, and younger children often joined their seniors, creating a lively mix of energy and joy. By the last day, the basketball matches and music performances reflected not only talent but also the dedication and joy that students brought to every activity.
The sessions were not just about learning skills, they were about building confidence, teamwork, and the ability to express oneself.
The creative writing workshop began with a simple question: “Do you read or write for fun?” Answers varied, some students had never considered reading or writing for pleasure, while others nodded enthusiastically. This diversity set the stage for two days of active learning and creative exploration.
Students wrote poems, stories, and even short dramas. The highlight was a story chain activity where each student contributed a part of the story, creating a narrative about a naughty cat trying to find its way home. In a 15-minute writing sprint, students penned original poems about mothers, life, and their surroundings. Their creativity and engagement were inspiring, demonstrating that when given the right environment, students can exceed expectations.
Creating Safe Spaces for Learning
While there were minor challenges, technical difficulties and varying participation levels, the sessions underscored a key lesson: students need safe spaces to express themselves. Encouraging shy students, celebrating effort, and valuing ideas are critical for fostering self-esteem and active learning. “When students put their heads down to think, create, and apply their ideas, they are steering their own future,” observed a CORN team member.
CORN’s Holistic Approach
Holistic education aims to nurture a child’s full development—intellectually, emotionally, socially, interpersonally, physically, creatively, and spiritually. And these initiatives are part of CORN’s broader mission to provide quality and equitable education in rural areas. In Jiri alone, CORN has worked with 11 schools and learning centers, implementing programs such as:
- Literacy Enrichment Programs
- School nutrition programs
- Scholarships for students
- School bus programs
In 2024, 6,764 students directly benefited from these programs. Similar programs operate in rural areas of Gorkha and Khijidemba, Okhaldhunga. Across these communities, CORN’s work has created lasting impact, not just for students but for entire communities.
Opportunities Breed Excellence
Every opportunity for students to learn and express themselves strengthens their ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and act confidently. Activities like music, basketball, and creative writing help students build skills that are essential in life, beyond textbooks and exams.
“Opportunities breed creativity. Where students excel, a community is uplifted.”
At CORN, we believe that education is not just about literacy, it’s about nurturing curiosity, fostering creativity, and providing equitable access to learning for all children, regardless of their background. The journey to quality education in rural Nepal begins with small but meaningful efforts, like these sessions in Jiri.
Every child deserves the spark of opportunity. It is our collective responsibility as facilitators, teachers, parents, and community members to provide that spark, support their growth, and amplify their voices.
About the author
Amelie Dahal
Amelie is CORN’s Communications Associate
and is based in in Kathmandu, Nepal
Neeti Pradhan
Neeti is CORN’s Communications Manager
and is based in Kathmandu, Nepal
