July 1, 2023, Kathmandu | Teach For Nepal (TFN) recently organized a solidarity walkathon, drawing the participation of over 500 enthusiastic youths who walked five kilometers with a mission to stand in solidarity with public school students facing long hours of travel and deprived of the quality education they deserve. The event took place on Saturday, July 1, 2023, and aimed to foster a dialogue on the importance of quality education in public schools and to raise resources to support the movement's initiatives.

Amidst pouring rain, more than 500 college students and young professionals, who had committed to raising 1,000 rupees each, joined hands to express their commitment that no children, irrespective of their socio-economic background, will be left behind. The TFN Solidarity Walkathon symbolically echoed their pledge to walk together with these children, ensuring they receive the same opportunities and choices as students attending private schools in Nepal.

The walk commenced from Patan Museum, Bhandarkhal Garden, and wove through Kupandole, Thapathali, Maitighar, and returned along the same route to Bhandarkhal Garden. The Solidarity Walkathon culminated in a vibrant closing ceremony featuring captivating performances from folk instrumental band Kutumba, as well as special appearances by Cobweb and Poet Munu Adhikari. A selected group of participating college students and esteemed Teach For Nepal Alumni community members also showcased their talents during the event.

At the inaugural session, Bhushan Tuladhar, a Teach For Nepal Board Member, applauded the participants for their dedication. "Your presence on this rainy afternoon speaks volumes about the passion and commitment of today's youth," he shared. "This solidarity walk signifies the power of our collective voice, advocating for quality education for all," he exclaimed, acknowledging the walkathon as a remarkable testament to the spirit of change.

Swastika Shrestha, the CEO of Teach For Nepal, stood beaming amidst the crowd, heartened by the outpouring of support. "Despite the relentless rain, your indomitable spirit has touched our hearts," she proclaimed, moved by the determination of the participants to leave no child behind. "This walkathon serves as a poignant reminder that quality education is not a privilege but a fundamental right," she emphasized, rallying the attendees to continue striving for change.

During the event, Teach For Nepal announced the opening of applications for the 2024 TFN Fellowship, eliciting eager anticipation among the crowd. "Today, I stand before you as living proof of the transformative impact of the Teach For Nepal Fellowship," exclaimed Ankush Uprety, RSM Manager, while launching the application process. "Your dedication and passion to make a difference can create an indelible mark in the lives of countless students," he urged the youth, their hearts brimming with zeal to be part of the change they wish to see.

Upreti thanked everyone for making time as students from approximately 40 different colleges in Kathmandu and people from diverse backgrounds joined hands for the cause. With the raised funds, Teach For Nepal aims to support the stipends of its dedicated fellows, each of whom is transforming the lives of approximately 150 children in classrooms across Dang, Dhanusa, Sidupalchowk, Tanahun, and Parsa.

The TFN Solidarity Walkathon serves as a testament to the commitment of the Nepalese youth to bridge the education gap and ensure that every child has access to a quality education, regardless of their circumstances. Together, they are taking strides toward building a brighter future for the next generation.

Teach For Nepal expresses deep gratitude to its esteemed supporters for making the solidarity walkathon a remarkable success. Special thanks are extended to Islington College for unwavering support in ensuring quality education for all. Axis Shoes, YOHO television, and Om Hospital also receive heartfelt acknowledgment for their vital roles in bringing the event to life and contributing to a brighter educational landscape in Nepal.

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