Summary
Since 2019, RDC Nepal, with support from UNICEF and World Education Inc., has implemented the Equity and Inclusion in Education (EIE) Project across Rajpur, Baudhimai, Maulapur, and Katahariya municipalities of Rautahat. The initiative aimed to improve equitable access to quality education for children in Grades 1–3, particularly those from marginalized communities, children with disabilities, and children whose first language is not Nepali. Through teacher capacity building, mother tongue-based instruction, learning camps, stakeholder engagement, and classroom support, the project significantly strengthened inclusive learning environments in 65 public schools.
Key Achievements
- Reached 65 public schools across four municipalities.
- Trained 132 early grade teachers on inclusive pedagogy, Early Grade Learning (EGL), Continuous Assessment System (CAS), and mother tongue-based instruction.
- Conducted 15 Learning Camps, benefiting 463 children (152 boys and 311 girls).
- Organized 50 school orientations involving teachers, School Management Committees (SMCs), Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs), and community stakeholders.
- Provided continuous classroom coaching through 1,200+ technical support visits.
- Supported teachers in developing over 70 Bajika-language learning materials using BLOOM software.
- Identified 35 children with disabilities and initiated Individual Education Plan (IEP) preparation.
Impact on the Education Sector
The project transformed classroom practices by promoting child-centered and inclusive teaching methods. Teachers adopted interactive approaches such as "I Do, We Do, You Do," peer learning, and locally developed learning materials, improving student participation and comprehension. The use of Bajika as a medium of instruction made learning more accessible for young learners, particularly those from marginalized communities. Continuous technical mentoring and teacher training enhanced classroom management and learning outcomes while fostering inclusive school environments for children with disabilities. Overall, RDC Nepal strengthened the foundation of equitable and quality early grade education in Rautahat.
