location
Khumaltar, Lalitpur

Transforming Education through Technological Demonstration

23 Dec, 2024

Shree Bhairav Secondary School, situated in the remote village of Naumule Rural Municipality-1, Dailekh, has a remarkable history of growth and transformation. Founded in 2017 BS as a primary institution, it gradually expanded to offer secondary education by 2035 BS and higher secondary education by 2064 BS, becoming a crucial center of learning. In 2076 BS, the school embarked on a new journey by introducing agriculture (plant science) classes from Grade 9 to 12, laying the foundation for an innovative approach to education. 

 

A significant asset of the school is its small farm. Initially, it was just a simple plot of land where students learned basic farming techniques during their practical classes. However, this modest beginning underwent transformative change. Thanks to the intervention of ANSAB under the GRAPE project, the school's farm developed into a model of climate-resilient agriculture, linking practical agricultural education with innovative sustainability practices. 

 

Through the GRAPE project, the once-basic school’s farmland evolved into a dynamic center for climate-resilient agriculture. With the objective to offer a comprehensive package of solutions for climate adaptive agricultural management, ANSAB introduced innovative farming techniques and infrastructure including plastic tunnels for micro-climatic modification, drip irrigation systems, plant nutrient management practices, a soil cement pond, and integrated pest management (IPM) tools & practices. These advancements addressed critical challenges of plant growth and development such as drought, pest and disease, and nutrient deficiency of plants. This initiative wasn’t just about improving farming practices but also creating a sustainable agricultural model that could function as both an educational resource and a practical demonstration. 

 

Building on this vision, the collaboration between the municipality, ANSAB, and the school brought this demonstration site to life, ensuring that students could learn about climate-resilient agriculture not just from textbooks, but through real, hands-on experience. The results of these efforts have been impressive. The farm now grows a variety of vegetables year-round, which has not only proven to be a commercial success but has also provided a valuable income stream for students. Students sell their produce at local markets, generating funds that are reinvested into the farm for purchasing inputs and technologies to further enhance their agricultural education and their income as well. Currently, 125 students from Grades 9 to 12, studying plant science, are actively engaging in the farm as part of their curriculum. This blend of practical experience and theoretical instruction has empowered students to effectively implement sustainable farming techniques, enriching their overall educational experience.

 

Reflecting on this success, Mr. Hemanta Basnet, Agriculture instructor remarked, “When I was a student, these technologies didn’t exist, and we never had the chance to learn them. Now, students are learning and implementing these sustainable technologies from as early as Grade 9. I am truly glad they have this opportunity and am pleased with the introduction of these innovative practices.” 

 

Following this achievement, Principal Mr. Nagendra Bahadur Singh proudly highlighted a significant milestone, “Realizing this remarkable success of the demonstration, we were inspired to seek approval from the National Examinations Board (NEB) to practice On-the-Job Training (OJT) in our school. With NEB’s approval, we can now offer OJT at our school, saving students the additional costs of traveling elsewhere. This development is a testament to our progress and the benefits of the GRAPE project.” 

 

Moreover, Grade 10 student Ms. Somiya Budha shared her enthusiasm by saying, “I feel really blessed that we can grow vegetables in school and generate income. With the training and education, I am utilizing my knowledge and am delighted to learn Climate resilient agriculture (CRA) technologies. I’m also grateful for ANSAB’s support in making this possible.”