International volunteers immerse in Madhesh through culture, education, and service

Rajbiraj, Saptari | July 2025: Nepal Unites successfully conducted the International Volunteer Service Program 2025, held from July 1st to 15th in Rajbiraj, Saptari. A group of 16 international volunteers took part in the initiative, gaining a valuable opportunity to immerse themselves in the cultural, linguistic, and social fabric of the Madhesh region through community engagement and educational activities.

The program brought together 14 students from Taiwan and one participant each from Malaysia and Vietnam, all currently studying at National Chung Hsing University in Taiwan.

During their stay, the volunteers actively participated in community development and educational projects. These included sanitation campaigns at the Rajdevi Temple and Shree Rajdevi Thakodevi Jogendra Bhagat Secondary School, as well as interactive learning sessions with local students. Through creative methods such as sports, arts, and activity-based teaching, the volunteers fostered a child-friendly atmosphere and encouraged student engagement.

Mr. Dinesh Prasad Thakur, headteacher of the host school, expressed appreciation for the volunteers’ contributions. He stated that their innovative teaching approaches significantly boosted students’ confidence, creativity, and active participation in classroom activities.

A unique feature of the program was its focus on the LESS Principles: Live, Listen, and Learn from local people; Eat what local families eat; Share personal stories; and Simplify their lifestyle. Instead of staying in hotels, the volunteers lived with local host families, allowing them to gain firsthand experience of daily life in Madhesh. They embraced local customs and traditions, shared their own experiences, and built strong, meaningful relationships with the community.

Mrs. Jonny, the team leader of the International Volunteer Service Program, stated that the immersive experience helped volunteers better understand local culture and form lasting bonds with host families. Alongside their educational involvement, the volunteers also participated in a sanitation campaign at the Rajdevi Temple area to raise public awareness about environmental health and hygiene.

Mr. Mohammad Ayatulla Rahaman, National Director of Nepal Unites, commended the volunteers’ dedication and teamwork. He highlighted that their involvement played a vital role in strengthening international friendship and promoting a positive global image of Madhesh.

On the final day of the program, volunteer Viola reflected on her experience, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the warm hospitality and support received from the local community. She described the journey as deeply enriching and personally transformative.

Encouraged by the success of this initiative, Nepal Unites has announced plans to continue organizing similar international youth exchange programs in the future, with the aim of fostering intercultural dialogue, global learning, and peacebuilding.