In the serene landscapes of Bhimsenthapa Rural Municipality, Gorkha, a transformative initiative is empowering students and bridging the digital divide: the Collaborative Learning Environment Center (CLEC) project at Shree Shanti Higher Secondary School. This vital program is dedicated to providing essential digital resources, educational opportunities, and a pathway to a brighter future for the school's students and the wider community.

PROJECT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Many rural schools in Nepal face challenges in accessing technology and modern educational tools. Recognizing this gap, the CLEC project at Shree Shanti Higher Secondary School aims to establish a dynamic hub where students can gain digital literacy and enhance their learning capabilities. Our core objectives include:

• Fostering technological use: Equipping teachers and students with the application of technology, such as digital tools and educational resources.
• Supporting Education: Providing supplementary learning resources, e-learning platforms, and access to a wealth of online information.
• Enabling Community Development: Opening doors to new knowledge, opportunities, and improved communication for the entire Bhimsenthapa community.

​KEY ACTIVITIES AND INITIATIVES

The CLEC at Shree Shanti Higher Secondary School has progressed rapidly, marked by several key milestones:

Scouting Trip and Site Assessment

On March 9, 2025, our team conducted a comprehensive scouting trip to Shree Shanti Higher Secondary School to assess site suitability and project feasibility. This crucial step ensured that the environment was conducive for the successful implementation of the CLEC.

April 28, 2025: Equipment Installation ​

On April 28, 2025, after a successful assessment process, all the necessary equipment was installed. Despite the challenges posed by a nationwide teachers’ strike, our team remained committed and proactive, ensuring that the delivery and installation proceeded on schedule. ​

May 14, 2025: Teacher Onboarding Trip

An onboarding trip was organized for the CLEC teachers, equipping them with essential training, guidance, and resources necessary to effectively manage and utilize the newly established CLEC. This initiative was a vital step in ensuring that the teachers are well-prepared to implement the teaching methodologies and operational guidelines developed by Digital Bridges for Nepal (DB4N). The training focused on familiarizing the teachers with the CLEC’s technology, educational tools, and best practices, empowering them to create an engaging and impactful learning environment for their students.

Impact and Benefits

The installation of the CLEC is poised to bring significant positive change to Shree Shanti Higher Secondary School and Bhimsenthapa:

• Improved academic performance and increased engagement among students.
  
• Enhanced capabilities for students and teachers to access and utilize online educational resources.
  
• Increased opportunities for skill development and access to information for the wider community.
  

​FUTURE OUTLOOK & FOLLOW-UPS

We are highly optimistic about the future of the CLEC project at Shree Shanti Higher Secondary School. With the center now fully operational and teachers equipped with collaborative methods and innovative pedagogical approaches, we anticipate a lasting and positive impact on both students and the broader community.

To ensure ongoing success, we will conduct weekly follow-ups with CLEC teachers, providing continuous support and constructive feedback. These sessions will focus on class scheduling, student engagement and reactions, and the resolution of any technical challenges that may arise. By fostering a responsive and adaptive learning environment, we aim to enhance the effectiveness of the CLEC initiative and strengthen its influence over time.​