Social Studies for Madesh Transformation

ERI Nepal in collaboration with, the Alliance of Agriculture for Food (AAF), Centre for Educational Policies and Practices (CEPP), Dignity Initiative (DI), and the Mahottari Network of Youth, successfully completed the final series of the Apprenticeship Modular Course on “Social Studies for Madhesh Transformation” from 17 to 22 January 2026 in Dhanusha District.

The main objective of this final phase was to strengthen participants’ foundational knowledge and understanding of key issues related to agriculture, education, and public health. The training adopted diverse and participatory learning methods, including PowerPoint presentations, interactive discussions, group work, thematic games, informational videos, and exposure visits to a farm, a government school, and a health post.

During the education sessions, participants explored different dimensions of learning and gained insights into the four pillars of education, enhancing their understanding of holistic development. In the health component, participants learned that good health begins at home—especially in the kitchen—and is not limited to hospitals and medicines. This perspective highlighted the importance of nutrition, hygiene, and preventive practices in promoting overall well-being.

In the agriculture sessions, participants became aware of the harmful effects of excessive chemical fertilizer use on public health. By watching the program Satyamev Jayate “Toxic Food”, they observed real-life examples of unsafe farming practices and their consequences. This helped them understand the close relationship between sustainable agriculture, food safety, community health, and the harmony of nature.

During the visit to Silverline Agro Pvt. Ltd., participants observed Aquaponics systems and large-scale greenhouse machinery. They gained practical exposure to modern, technology-driven agricultural practices. While appreciating their efficiency and productivity, participants also expressed concerns about their affordability and relevance for small-scale farmers.

The visit to Shree Rastriya Secondary School, Pashupatinath Banarjhulla provided valuable insights into the functioning of a government school. Participants observed classroom teaching, interacted with school leadership, and learned about institutional management. They also noted strong youth participation and voluntary efforts to maintain greenery, which enhanced the school environment.

In addition, participants visited the local health post, where they learned about basic health services, commonly treated cases, operational challenges, and the importance of accessible healthcare in rural areas. This visit further strengthened their understanding of the interconnection between agriculture, education, and health in community development.

Overall, the final phase of the immersion course successfully enhanced participants’ knowledge and practical skills in education, agriculture, and public health. By integrating theoretical learning with field-based experiences, the program provided a comprehensive, relevant, and meaningful learning journey.