Field Notes from Kalikot’s Classrooms, Clinic, and Kitchen Gardens | July 2025
Dear friends of Oda,
As we step into the second half of the year, we’re proud to bring you our first monthly update, a more frequent look at how your support is shaping lives in rural Nepal. From new agroecology trainings to early childhood screenings, here’s a snapshot of July in motion, and download a PDF here.
Oda’s Nursing Staff Supporting Post Natal Care in Home Visits
"Now I feel less afraid."
That’s what Manisha, 28, said after attending our July ANC clinic where she learned how to monitor her baby’s movements and identify danger signs during pregnancy.
From pregnancy to postpartum, our health team walked alongside mothers and children this July ensuring care reached even the most remote corners of Kalikot.
9 pregnant women received antenatal checkups, nutrition guidance, and birth preparedness sessions.
2 babies were safely delivered with skilled birth attendants at our hospital.
21 children were screened for malnutrition; 6 mothers received iron-folic acid and breastfeeding support.
6 new mothers received postnatal care incentives, helping them return for regular checkups.
14 individuals screened for Kala-Azar—all tests negative, with prevention tips shared.
11 health workers trained in emergency and chronic care, strengthening rural capacity.
"The nurse held my hand through every contraction. My son was born crying and healthy!"— Ranipura Singh
Second Chances & Stronger Starts
Out-of-School children holding the JAPA workbook during sessions
"From identifying learning gaps to bringing dropouts back into class, July was all about creating inclusive and motivating spaces for students to thrive.
JAPA Workbook Project: 12 students who had dropped out or attended irregularly joined activity-based sessions to rebuild basic literacy and numeracy through games, phonics, and peer support.
Diagnostic Assessments: 96 students at Shree Tila and Dev Schools were assessed in core subjects. Findings helped tailor lesson plans and inform parent-teacher strategies for continued support.
Volunteer-Led Impact: Over two months, 4 volunteers from Niten Memorial School supported daily classes, arts and sports activities, and mentored local teachers, reaching over 90 students with renewed energy and creativity.
A teacher helping students take the Diagnostic Assessment Tests at the Shree Tila School
AGROECOLOGY | Rooted in Participation
Community Member planting the Fruit Saplings distributed under the Agroecology Project to enhance food security.
In July, our agroecology team focused on expanding access, knowledge, and community leadership.
585 saplings distributed to 160 households across 4 wards, prioritizing Dalit and marginalized farmers.
17 participants trained in local planning and proposal writing for community-led development.
57 local vegetable varieties identified to promote year-round nutrition and biodiversity.
26 group meetings held on seed saving, kitchen gardening, and nutrition.
From Harvest to Livelihood: 18 Women Launch Native Products Initiative
18 women from Mahawai-2 came together to launch an initiative focused on collecting and packaging native products like pepper, cinnamon, red rice, and medicinal herbs. Supported by Kanthari, the initiative is rooted in traditional knowledge and led by the women themselves,marking a powerful step toward sustainable income and economic independence.
Women's Cooperative members meeting to discuss product ideas for the market.
Thank you for being part of our journey.
Every sapling planted, lesson taught, and life saved in July was made possible because of your belief in our work. Your continued support empowers communities in Kalikot to take charge of their health, education, and livelihoods, one step at a time. We’re grateful to walk this path with you.
Questions? Send us a note at info@odafoundation.org.
With gratitude,
The Oda Foundation Team