Teaching Abroad in Nepal

Nepal is an amazing country and it has offered me so many unbelievable opportunities. However, it is the people I have met and the children I have worked with so far that truly make up the incredible landscape of this place for me. The students of Snowland Ranag have made my placement incredibly interesting, rewarding and enjoyable so far and I can't help but look forward to the next three months with them. If you are interested in helping with the painting weekend at the end of May please don't hesitate to contact Jenna or myself for more information. Kate O'Connell

Jessica Bell Makes a Return to KTM: We were lucky enough to have a recent visit from Jessica Bell, a past volunteer who spent a short two weeks back in the country accompanied by her mother. Jess has continued to fundraise for MSPN since her departure from Nepal in April 2007. Jess was back in town not only to say hello to everyone and show here mother around, BUT to complete her sponsored bungee jump!!

January's outreach program was at The Life Development centre (LDC); this is a centre for the mentally and physically disabled. There are 35 people living there permanently at the centre varying in ages from 4-44; LDC provides around the clock support and care. The students of the centre go home on the last Friday of every month for the weekend; this gives them the chance to spend time with their families and for the hardworking staff to take a rest.

After a failed attempt to enter the oft-mythologized land of Tibet, we (Nina Bartz, Germ Anne Hooisma, Jan Grove, and I) obtained our long coveted Chinese visas for the end of November. The only catch was that we had to travel in an organized tour from Nepal. We had some misgivings about this plan but the tour group turned out to be quite good and provided us with many luxuries we weren't used to after 3 months in Nepal!

Climbing at the Pasang Lhamu Foundation Wall opposite Shanka Park on the way to Chabhil, was a great hit with nearly all who joined on Wednesday evening. We got some great volunteer discount with a bit of persuasion, I'm sure we will be paying another visit before too long.

Fell in love with Nepal. Absolutely loved my time here! The people here are just amazing; so friendly. My placement was better than I could have dreamt! Nepal Orthopaedic hospital is an amazing place if you are a pre- medical student or those with a special interest in orthopaedics. I couldn't have wished for a better placement. Also, Nepal is a country you can just visit one time; you have to come back!!
Thank you Projects Abroad for a life changing experience!

After that I would join the ward round, observe the examinations in the OPD (Out Patient Department), watch operations in the OT (Operation Theatre) or spend time with the nice and funny physiotherapists. Often I also just play with the children, paint with them, or just sit at their beds when they are under "rest". It still amazes me how content these kids are, although they suffer from hurting illnesses and are forced to stay in this place for a long time.