For the past month and a half, I’ve had the honor of coordinating and leading a computer class for young people aged 14 to 18 in the local community of Jitpur Phedi, as part of my volunteer mission with VIN (Volunteers Initiative Nepal). These classes, held at the Women Business Center, are part of the Youth Empowerment program, which I have been working to develop alongside the VIN team.
A Collective Learning Experience for Digital Autonomy
From the very beginning, I was supported by several local volunteers, including Pulakshya and Sushant, as well as Chandrika, an intern working on the same program. Toward the end of the session, we welcomed Kristina, a new ESC volunteer, who brought great energy and pedagogy to the group.
The goal of these courses is clear: to provide local youth with essential digital tools to navigate the demands of modern life. Today, computer literacy is no longer optional—it is a fundamental skill. Whether for personal administrative management, access to employment, or academic success, mastering digital tools is a must. In a world where everything is increasingly digitized, access to the internet and basic computing is becoming a priority—and in many ways, a necessity. While some countries discuss the right to disconnect, here we are still working to ensure the right to connect.
Daily Challenges… but Real Progress
Teaching computer skills in this region does not come without its challenges. The students had highly diverse levels of experience—some were nearly ready to start coding, while others struggled to write a short essay using a word processor. This diversity was both a challenge and a strength. It pushed us to adapt our teaching style and sometimes offer individualized support for students who needed extra help, while still keeping advanced learners engaged.
We also faced several logistical issues: frequent power outages, faulty equipment, heavy rains that reduced class attendance, and even public transport strikes that made it hard for students to reach the center. Despite all this, the students stayed motivated, and that was incredibly rewarding.
An Unforgettable Human and Educational Experience
Beyond the technical aspects, it was the students’ personalities that truly defined this experience. Some were very shy, others full of energy. There were boisterous boys, chatty girls who were inseparable, energetic duos, and natural leaders. Each student brought something unique to the class. At times, some students relied too much on their friends to complete exercises, so we introduced strategies to encourage independence while still promoting teamwork.
As a teacher, I had the great privilege of witnessing their progress firsthand: improved skills in basic software, increased confidence using computers, and, most importantly, a growing sense of self-assurance. Watching them improve day by day has been an immense source of pride.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the empowerment of this Nepali youth. I wish all my students the very best in pursuing their personal goals, and I hope these courses planted the seeds of digital curiosity that will serve them well in their academic, professional, and personal lives.
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