In January 2011 the Dhulikhel Computer Learning Centre was opened. It was established following a grant from Goodwill Community Foundation (USA) for computers and materials, and support from the Dhulikhel Rotary Club for the hire of the premises. It is a small centre with 6 computers.
The centre provides basic computer training to teenagers and adults who have had no previous experience with computers. It targets its courses towards rural Nepalese people, particularly the poorand disadvantaged. These courses are provided free of cost. Advanced 3 month computer training courses are run for a small cost to the participants (NRs2500). Some of the students who have completed the course are now working overseas in Malaysia, India and Korea. Others working in Nepal in finance and other jobs requiring computer skills.
The centre also provides English language courses for adults who are travelling overseas for work. Many Nepali men and women are choosing to work overseas (Middle East,India, Aisa) for a number of years as the renumeration is so attractive. A knowledge of the English language is very important for these men and women to avoid/minimize any possible exploitation of their situation. The centre would like to employ a full-time teacher for this, but has no funds to do so.
The centre is struggling to continue its good work with grant funds exhausted. While students at the centre contribute with a small fee this is not enough to cover the on-going costs that the centre faces (rent and internet charges). Since opening 20 students have completed the advanced training course, and 18 are curently enrolled. They will complete the course in 2 weeks.
It is a struggle to get a job in Nepal, even with qualifications as there are simply not enough jobs to go around. Having computer skills is very important for the rural Nepali youth to be able to compete in the national and international job market.
Please get in touch if you would like to support this worthwhile initiative.
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