June 8 2024 Rautahat (Uma Adhikari) : Local Preschool’s Climate Change and Sustainability Program Chandrapur Municipality, Rautahat District, Madhesh Province,

A groundbreaking initiative aimed at educating preschool children and their guardians on climate change and environmental sustainability concluded with resounding success on June 7th and 9th. The “Cultivating Change: Preschool Climate Change and Sustainability Program,” led by Aayushma Kafle, a youth sounding board member of the European Union, has set a new benchmark for environmental education in the region.

Aayushma Kafle organized this impactful two-day event under the “Action at Home Project,” supported by the EU’s consortium partner Youth Innovation Lab, Restless Development, Creasion, and the Center for Disaster Management Studies. The project was implemented at Shubharambha Preschool in Chandrapur-06, Rautahat, targeting thirty preschool children, along with their parents, guardians, stakeholders, and school staff.

Over the course of the program, 50 participants, including approximately 30 children from Shubharambha Preschool, 5 staff members, and 15 parents, engaged in meticulously planned activities designed to instill a deep understanding and appreciation of environmental sustainability and climate action. The program featured separate sessions for adults and children, each tailored to maximize impact and engagement.

The adult sessions included an informative presentation by Aayushma (YSB) through fun learning activities in a workshop model, complete with baseline knowledge assessments and brainstorming sessions followed by a video presentation of the EU’s documentary on Nepal. Topics such as waste reduction, energy conservation, water usage, and practical ways of climate action were discussed by Mr. Ashish Lamichhane, a climate change activist, Eco Hero Award Winner 2021, and Founder of Green Rangers Earth, in interactive formats. These sessions emphasized the role of adults as role models and how they can help their children take small steps towards a greener world.

The children’s sessions were a vibrant mix of age-appropriate storytelling, songs, and games, all focused on key environmental concepts. Activities such as recycling, compost manure creation, and a hands-on plantation program were particularly well-received. The children’s enthusiasm was evident as they actively participated in turning off lights and taps to conserve energy and water. Collaborative projects like drawing and coloring “happy earth” illustrations beautifully showcased their understanding and commitment to a greener planet.

One of the program’s highlights was a visit to a nearby nursery, where children, with the help of their teachers and parents, planted seedlings. This hands-on experience not only taught them about the importance of trees but also gave them a sense of responsibility and pride in contributing to their environment.

The initiative’s impact extended beyond the immediate participants, creating a ripple effect throughout the community. Educational materials and resources distributed during the program ensured that learning and implementation of sustainable practices would continue long after the sessions ended.

Aayushma Kafle expressed immense satisfaction with the program’s outcomes, stating, “Little children hold transformative potential for resilience, adaptation, and sustainable development. Integrating climate action awareness in the home as well as the school environment of little kids helps in long-term sustainability. Empowering preschool teachers and guardians, along with the little kids, fosters intergenerational dialogues and practices for behavioral changes!”

Local stakeholders, including FCHVs, local activists, media personnel, and the school principal, applauded the effort and believe the program can be replicated in other preschools and communities. The success of this initiative marks a significant step towards cultivating a culture of environmental sustainability in Chandrapur Municipality and beyond.

As the program concludes, the preschool community looks forward to continued growth and the lasting impact of these early lessons in environmental responsibility. The “Cultivating Change: Preschool Climate Change and Sustainability Program,” organized by YSB member Aayushma Kafle, stands as a testament to the power of education in driving positive change for a better, greener world.