In the remote and mountainous villages of Central Nepal, a collaboration between RYTHM Foundation and the NGO National Forum for Advocacy Nepal (NAFAN) is creating a story of positive change for the indigenous Chepang people.
In these challenging terrains, where lives have long been labelled as “deprived,” our support of NAFAN’s transformative initiatives has yielded encouraging outcomes.
The semi-nomadic Chepang – one of the South Asian nation’s 59 indigenous groups – is experiencing a shift as educational, health, and social programmes for them gain momentum.
The undertaking fosters empowerment and education, provides a conducive environment for young beneficiaries, and enhances their social transformation knowledge and skills.
RYTHM aims to assist 250 beneficiaries over the three-year project (until mid-2024), including 180 girls and women aged between five and 30. The project’s milestones include enrolling 99% of the children in school within two years and ensuring at least 60% attend school regularly by the third year.
Read more: The Power of Education: RYTHM and NAFAN’s Journey to Empower Nepal’s Chepang Tribe
“We have observed various positive changes, especially among children who did not have the opportunity for an education,” NAFAN chairperson Bhola Bhattarai said.
Our Sustainable Community Project partnership with NAFAN started in four villages in the Makawanpur district – Damrang, Hiurang, Chamanti, and Hatikhola.
“The education programme supported by RYTHM Foundation has now expanded to a fifth village. We are getting requests from more families to school their children,” Bhola said.
The strides made in just 18 months are evident, with 49 children also transitioning into formal education. “Their progress has been impressive, with more young beneficiaries developing a culture of reading and writing.”
The impact of the collaboration extends beyond the classroom. NAFAN’s holistic approach actively engages families, especially women, recognising their crucial role in shaping the community’s destiny. As Bhola emphasises, “Women are showing a remarkable commitment to securing a better future for the children.”
NAFAN’s initiatives are also influencing a shift in the prevalent issue of child marriages among the Chepang. The emphasis on reproductive health education, sanitation, and overall well-being reflects a comprehensive approach to tackling deeply ingrained societal norms.
“After engaging with them, more girls are beginning to understand that they do not have to marry early,” Bhola added.
The RYTHM-NAFAN partnership has left an enduring impact, emerging as a beacon of hope for the marginalised Chepang. It also shows that sustained efforts and collective commitments can create achievable transformations.
Read more: The Chepang: Supporting Nepal’s Marginalised Indigenous Group