WELNepal 2009 Update
We at WELNepal realize that all our accomplishments so far would not have been possible without the generous support of our many benefactors. We wish all of you could see for yourselves how your donations have benefited the women of Chitwan district in lowland Nepal. On behalf of those women, WELNepal thanks you.

This year WELNepal has continued the education of the women who took part in last year's basic-literacy class. Over 300 women will receive 6 more months of advanced literacy. In addition, WELNepal has funded 23 new basic-literacy classes. As a result, almost 700 more women will begin reading and writing in their own language. WELNepal also initiated a weekly refresher class for women who wish to continue studying after completing their two-year literacy course. Thirteen groups are involved in this year-long program.

The number of libraries WELNepal has created in the areas where its literacy classes are concentrated has grown from 4 in 2007 to 7 today. New books have been added and may be borrowed by anyone, young or old and male or female, who enjoys reading. WELNepal also sponsors lectures on women's rights and leadership for 8 of our women's groups. Although laws protecting women exist in Nepal, they are of no use unless Nepali women know about their legal rights and gain enough confidence to use them to their advantage.

In the past year WELNepal’s series of lectures on ecology was once again a great success. The groups of women involved in WELNepal’s farmers training program took great pride in growing their vegetables organically. They were very pleased their crops had improved in both quality and quantity with just a bit more effort In addition, the women were happy they did not have to spend their hard-earned rupees on pesticides and fertilizers. This year ten more women’s groups will receive training in new farming methods. All told, In 2009 WELNepal will provide 84 days of lectures and training for women

Eight young women are continuing their education with the aid of WELNepal’s scholarship program. Six of them are enrolled in post-secondary studies, and the youngest two are attending private schools, where they will receive better educations than they would in the overcrowded government schools. Harimaya, who has now been with us for 3 years, is on the lookout for ten more poor but intelligent and talented female students who would benefit from WELNepal’s financial support.

WELNepal is very fortunate to have Harimaya Bhandari as its Project Co-ordinator. Because Harimaya has had little time for anything else in her life while working to better the lives of her fellow women, WELNepal is pleased it can now provide her with a coworker - Assistant Project Co-ordinator Rabita Mahato. Information about Rabita and all other members of WELNepal’s family can be found at our About Us page.