A new scholarship program has helped 59 children in Mahakulung Rural Municipality return to school, improving access to education in this remote Himalayan region.

The initiative started in mid-October 2025, following an online meeting of the board members of New Futures Nepal, Nepal English Education Foundation, and Everest Mera Foundation. The meeting directed the identification of underprivileged children in Mahakulung.

Following this, field-level surveys were conducted in local schools and communities. The assessment showed that many children had stopped attending school due to poverty, loss of parents, or other social and economic hardships. Some children were working as porters in the Everest region, carrying heavy loads instead of going to school

Mahakulung, known for its major contribution to the Everest trekking workforce, faces ongoing socio-economic challenges. Children here often have to leave school early and many lack parental care or basic support.

In response, the scholarship program was launched with financial support from The Ardonagh Community Trust and New Futures Nepal, in partnership with Everest Mera Foundation, and with coordination from Mahakulung Rural Municipality.

The program’s goal is to bring out-of-school children back again into a formal education. Scholarship announcements were shared for over two and a half months through local radio, TV, and community networks, reaching even the most remote areas.

The response was very good, and many children applied. The selection was fair and transparent. The process included visiting homes, checking school records, and getting recommendations from local ward officials. A Scholarship Selection Committee, made up of local government, school, and community members, supervised the process.

Although the program initially aimed to support 50 children, 59 highly vulnerable students were approved based on their need.

The scholarship covers all school-related costs for the academic year starting mid-April 2026, including textbooks, stationery, uniforms, footwear, warm clothing, school bags, and other essential learning materials. The support ensures children can continue their education without financial barriers.

The scholarship distribution took place from March 11 to 13, 2026. Chairpersons of Ward No. 3 and 1 in Mahakulung Rural Municipality, Durga Kulung and Parkhidhan Rai, thanked the supporting organizations and emphasized the importance of continuing such programs.

Head teachers Guru Prasad Rai, Chhalak Kulung, and Raj Man Rai highlighted the value of education and expressed gratitude to donors and partners for helping former students return to classrooms for a brighter future.