We recently had a very productive visit to eight separate Tharu communities in Dang District that allowed us to support and monitor project activities. The achievements of this visit, which was from September 17-20, include:
- One-on-one coaching with adult literacy class facilitators: We observed five different literacy classes. After class, we sat with facilitators to discuss their progress and obstacles in running the class, and coached them in ways to improve their performance.
- Monitoring adult literacy class participants’ progress: We talked with participants in five literacy classes. Participants are very happy about the program and thankful to those who provide support for it. Local community people have started to work together against child labor, especially the practice of sending Tharu daughters as Kamlahari (bonded laborers).
- Observing livelihoods activities: Tharu women we talked to are very happy with the ‘Get one Give one’ goat gift program. 52 households have received one female goat and have begun growing fodder trees with help from the government’s Animal Health Service Office. The project will provide female goats to 22 more Tharu families. Most families have their own kitchen garden, and have enough vegetables to eat and sell in the early mornings. One member of the groups has started a small tailoring shop. One group has started a community retail shop.
- Conducting a listening survey: We met with around 200 people, mostly women, to learn about progress of project activities. They are quite happy with project activities. They requested more training on livelihoods and capacity building, and support to empower the local community, especially Tharu women.
- Organized experience sharing meetings for community cooperative groups: We had five meetings with 199 group members (175 female, 24 male). They were very good meetings. They requested group management and leadership training for all members.
We were very pleased to observe how well the project is running and helping community members improve their lives. We would like to request you to visit our website, http://www.ldcnepal.org for updates on our progress, and share the link with friends and family who might be interested. Thank you for your continued support of the work we do and the community we work with.