September 23, 2024

NaraTika Community Learning Center: A Space for Growth and Learning in Okhaldhunga

NaraTika Community Learning Center: A Space for Growth and Learning in Okhaldhunga

Welcome to the NaraTika Community Learning Center (NTCLC), a first-of-its-kind facility in the heart of Okhaldhunga, Nepal, near the Everest region. This eco-friendly, sustainable space is designed to empower local communities through education, training, and social development. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, learning about organic farming, or simply exploring the beautiful grounds, NTCLC offers something for everyone.

A Beautiful Garden with Over 150 Species of Plants

As you step through the gates of the NaraTika Community Learning Center, you are greeted by a lush garden. Home to over 150 species of plants, fruits, and flowers, the garden is a serene introduction to the centre. Fruit trees such as guava, pomegranates, avocados, walnuts, pears, and apples grow throughout. The vibrant colours of roses, bougainvillaea, and lilies create a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can relax and enjoy nature.

Visitors and learners alike can stroll through the garden and discover how the NTCLC’s permaculture teaching farm demonstrates sustainable agricultural practices.

Ground Floor: Technology and Health Spaces

Entering the NTCLC building, you’ll find a spacious lobby accommodating up to 12 people and an information desk that helps guide visitors around the centre. Straight ahead is a small pantry (kitchen), and on the left, you’ll see a large hall set to become a specialised medical clinic. The Computer Learning Center is near the stairs, where up to 16 people can learn essential digital skills.

Activities:

a. Computer Learning Center

Join one of our computer literacy programs, perfect for students and adults looking to enhance their technology skills.

b. Future Medical Clinic

Once open, the clinic will offer essential medical services to the local community, with plans to introduce health workshops.

First Floor: Learning Spaces for Children and the Community

Climb to the first floor, and you’ll find dedicated learning spaces. On the left is the Children’s Learning Center, designed for kids under ten, offering a space filled with books, toys, and interactive learning tools. Opposite this is the Library, stocked with physical books and digital resources for children and adults.

In addition, the first floor features a training room that can host up to 20 people, an open workstation for community members and staff, and offices for women’s cooperatives and management.

Activities:

a. Children’s Learning Center

Kids can enjoy reading sessions, creative arts activities, and fun learning games that nurture their growth.

b. Library

Open to all, the library offers a peaceful space for reading, research, and self-study.

c. Training Room

Participants will participate in skill development workshops, leadership training, and community seminars aimed at empowering youth and women.

Second Floor: Everest View Hostel

On the second floor, NTCLC offers the Everest View Hostel, providing comfortable accommodation for guests. The floor also includes a kitchen, dining space, and a cosy lobby area where guests can relax. Whether you’re here for a short stay or a more extended retreat, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Activities:

a. Hostel Stay

Perfect for volunteers, interns, or visitors, this hostel offers a tranquil stay with access to all the centre’s facilities.

b. Dining Area

Share meals with fellow visitors and volunteers, creating a sense of community.

Third Floor: A Hall for Big Events and Gatherings

The third floor houses a large conference hall accommodating up to 130 people. This space is ideal for community events, training sessions, and conferences. We also have a small hostel room on the same floor with bunk beds for additional guests and convenient toilets and showers.

Activities:

a. Event Hosting

Use the hall for community gatherings, workshops, or seminars that bring people together to learn and share ideas.

b. Hostel Room

Affordable accommodation is available for guests attending events or training sessions at NTCLC.

Rooftop and Fourth Floor: Breathtaking Views and Sustainable Energy

The top of the building features solar panels that generate green energy to power the centre. On a clear day, visitors can also head to the rooftop to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Everest.

Activities:

a. Rooftop Relaxation

Take in the views, relax, or have a small group discussion with Everest as your backdrop.

b. Green Energy Learning

Learn about the centre’s commitment to sustainability through its solar energy setup.

Permaculture Teaching Farm: Growing Organic, Fresh Vegetables

East of the building, you’ll find the NTCLC’s Permaculture Teaching Farm, where a variety of organic vegetables are grown year-round. The farm showcases sustainable farming practices that help reduce waste and provide fresh produce for the centre and community.

Activities:

a. Farm Tours

Join a guided tour to learn about organic farming, permaculture, and sustainable agricultural techniques.

b. Fresh Produce

Sample fresh, in-season vegetables during your visit or volunteer to help with farm activities.

Be Part of Our Community

At NTCLC, we invite you to explore all our centre offers. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, learning new skills, or simply enjoying the space, there’s something for everyone. The centre is eco-friendly and self-sustaining, with rainwater harvesting, fire safety systems, and public toilets and showers available.

Activities:

a. Volunteering

We encourage locals and international visitors to support community education, youth training, and women’s empowerment programs.

b. Community Use

Residents can use the facilities for meetings, events, and learning opportunities.

Participate in this incredible journey towards sustainable community development at NaraTika Community Learning Center in Okhaldhunga. Together, we can create a brighter, greener future!