Resilience in Uncertain Times:From Classrooms to Communities | August 2025
Education Materials Distribution at Jaganath Basic School after Fire hazard at the schol
Dear Friends of Oda,
This month’s newsletter comes to you later than usual, as Nepal has just gone through a period of historic political change. In early September, mass protests shook the nation, leading to the resignation of the government. The curfew has now been lifted, and former Chief Justice Sushila Karki has been appointed as interim Prime Minister, with national elections scheduled for March.
These events carry both hope and challenge. The protests have already cost the country immense wealth, and local governments are facing tighter budgets. For Oda Foundation, this is particularly significant. As a grassroots organization, we work hand in hand with the local government in Kalikot. In recent years, their partnership has been vital, funding salaries at Mahawai Basic Hospital, supporting education initiatives, and agroecology projects.
Yet, during this interim period, there is real uncertainty. While essential health and education budgets are expected to continue, there is a real risk of reductions or even reversals in other local government commitments as priorities shift to national stabilization.
Still, Kalikot’s people continue to show resilience. In August, children returned to learning, mothers received safe care, farmers planted together, and women entrepreneurs began sending their first products to market. These are the everyday victories that sustain hope and remind us of the importance of standing firm during uncertain times, and download a PDF here.
Farewell Program of our beloved English Teacher “Sadhana Miss”.
EDUCATION: Partner School Updates
Back to School After the Fire (13 August | Jaganath Basic School, Katampur): After a fire destroyed learning materials, Oda mobilized quickly to replace supplies for 6 affected students. Personalized kits of books and stationery were distributed, restoring not only resources but also a sense of stability and hope.
Honoring a Teacher’s Journey (28 August | Shree Tila Secondary School, Oda): Staff and students bid a heartfelt farewell to Miss Sadhana Dhakal, an English teacher from Jhapa who spent last year nurturing students in Kalikot. The event included songs, dances, and a certificate of appreciation, recognizing her lasting impact on English education in the hills.
AGROECOLOGY: Growing Equality & Sustainability
Gender Equality in Action: 31 participants including staff, volunteers, and community members took part in a 3-day workshop on gender transformation approaches, building awareness on gender roles and equality through games, reflection, and group learning.
Greening Communities: 40 “Dhupi” (Cypress) tree saplings planted by 18 farmers from 3 local groups in Kuni village.
Capacity Building in Seed Saving: 3 project staff attended a training visit to DOAR Lumle, Pokhara focused on establishing community seed banks with local government collaboration.
HEALTH: Safer Births, Stronger Systems
Maternal Health: 2 safe deliveries at the birthing center; families counseled on newborn and postnatal care.
Adolescent Health: Folic acid tablets distributed to all girls studens from 2 partner schools to prevent anemia and support long-term wellbeing.
System Strengthening: New health insurance agreement at Mahawai Hospital ensures affordable services and reliable funding.
Government Support: 3 government meetings and positive discussions on alternative energy support, equipment and a doctor placement for the hospital.
WOMEN EMPOWERMENT: SkillHer Moves to Market
The SkillHer cooperative team has begun gathering local herbs and spices for packaging and sale. Product labels have been designed. Their first batch of products was prepared and sent as souvenir packages to Kanthari in Kerala, which is supporting the project. This milestone coincided with CEO Karan Singh’s visit to Kerala with Kanthari International, showcasing the potential of Kalikot’s women-led enterprise on an international stage.
Questions? Send us a note at info@odafoundation.org.
With gratitude,
The Oda Foundation Team