In the picturesque setting of Palungtar-1, Barbhanjyang, Gorkha, an inspiring transformation took place on November 6, 2023. The Leo Club of Kathmandu Himalayas Patan successfully conducted its environmental education program, "Activities for Government School Students," embracing the powerful slogan: "Children are the future. Save environment, save children, save future!"
This initiative came at a critical juncture when Nepal, like many regions worldwide, faces escalating environmental challenges including deforestation, pollution, and climate change impacts. Recognizing that lasting environmental change requires educating and empowering the youngest members of society, the Leo Club designed a program specifically tailored to engage government school students in meaningful environmental learning.
Engaging Activities with Purpose
The day was structured around interactive workshops and hands-on activities designed to make environmental concepts accessible and exciting for the students. Rather than relying solely on theoretical education, the program incorporated:
- Tree planting exercises where students learned proper planting techniques
- Waste segregation games teaching the importance of recycling
- Nature-based art projects using sustainable materials
- Storytelling sessions highlighting the relationship between humans and nature
- Role-playing activities demonstrating environmental cause and effect
Each activity was carefully designed to not only educate but also to foster emotional connections to nature. By combining learning with play, the program successfully captured the students' attention and imagination, making complex environmental concepts understandable and relevant to their daily lives.
Leadership and Recognition
Under the dedicated guidance of Leo Aasha Shrestha, the program achieved its ambitious goals of inspiring environmental consciousness among the participating students. As program coordinator, Leo Aasha demonstrated exceptional leadership by adapting activities to meet the specific needs and context of rural Gorkha students.
A particularly impactful element of the program was the recognition and reward system implemented for active participation. Students received certificates and small environmentally-friendly prizes for their engagement, reinforcing positive behaviors and encouraging continued interest in environmental stewardship. This approach validated the students' efforts and elevated their sense of agency in addressing environmental issues.
Beyond Environmental Education
While environmental awareness was the primary focus, the program yielded additional benefits for the participating government school students. Many of these children have limited access to extracurricular activities and interactive learning experiences. The program provided:
- Exposure to new teaching methodologies beyond traditional rote learning
- Opportunities to develop critical thinking skills through problem-solving activities
- Confidence-building through public speaking and group presentations
- Social skills development through collaborative environmental projects
- Connection with young leaders and role models from Leo Club
These supplementary benefits enriched the overall impact of the program, contributing to the holistic development of students who often have fewer educational resources than their urban counterparts.
A Model for Sustainable Engagement
The success of this initiative in Barbhanjyang establishes a replicable model for environmental education in government schools throughout Nepal. By documenting effective activities and approaches, the Leo Club of Kathmandu Himalayas Patan has created a template that can be adapted and implemented in diverse educational settings.
The program underscores the Leo Club's deep commitment to both environmental sustainability and educational equity. By specifically targeting government school students, the initiative acknowledges the importance of inclusive environmental education that reaches all segments of society, including those in rural areas who are often among the most affected by environmental degradation.
As these students return to their regular studies carrying new knowledge, skills, and motivation for environmental care, the true impact of this program will continue to unfold. Each participant now serves as a potential catalyst for positive environmental practices within their families and communities, extending the program's influence far beyond its one-day duration.
The Leo Club of Kathmandu Himalayas Patan remains dedicated to nurturing this seedling of environmental consciousness, with plans for follow-up activities and continued engagement with the Barbhanjyang school community. Through such sustained efforts, today's students will indeed become tomorrow's environmental champions, turning the program's slogan into reality: "Children are the future. Save environment, save children, save future!"
