- Ann

"I spent close to 3 months at Pragya School, and my time there was incredible. Of course I was scared initially about going to the other end of the globe by myself, but when I arrived in Kathmandu Mr. Patel and the staff gave me such a warm welcome that my fears were soon quelled… I spent my time at Pragya as a music teacher for the older kids, and simply teaching English to some of the younger ones. The thing that struck me was that 99% of the students really appreciated the opportunity to be in school. Something children in the west have obviously begun to take for granted. It was a joy to teach such eager children… Some advice for prospective volunteers: You must go into this with an open mind, and the understanding that you will be frustrated at times."
- Bob

"I volunteered with the Pragya English School for two months and found it to be a life changing experience. Nepal is a beautiful country that currently suffers from a number of problems. Visiting as a volunteer gives you the opportunity to learn about the development challenges Nepalese face and actually feel that you might make a positive impact. Pragya English School has a number of opportunities for volunteers, so that even those who don't wish to teach can make a meaningful contribution. Volunteering for a locally run program also allows you to learn more about true Nepali culture (in all its complexities) and experience the country in a more authentic way than most visitors. I look forward to visiting the country and the school again, and am eagerly awaiting my next taste of daal bhaat!"
– Gretchen

"During my short time at Pragya English School, I had an opportunity to work with a wonderful group of children teaching art. From my first day at the school, I realized how limited resources were for students and teachers. This reassured me about my decision to volunteer and I felt that my contribution would make an impact on this school. It is difficult to evaluate myself as teacher, students are the best judges, nevertheless the fact that one of the students won a prize in an art competition after attending my classes, makes me very proud, even if I can only give myself a small credit for this success… I believe that my time with the students was productive and that I was able to share my experience and knowledge. The students were extremely eager and willing to learn. I was impressed by their intelligence and curiosity… The staff and other faculty members were very helpful and accommodating… With two other volunteers, I was also able to partially restore 3 classrooms for the kindergarten children. This project included mural paintings executed by 10th grade students. This was a very successful collaboration… Since I was staying most of the time with Mr. Patel, the school’s director, and his wife, I was able to experience the Nepali family life and felt like a part of their family… I found true friendship in Nepal... I received much more than I gave."
- Marek