blog post

Creating a Safe and Secure Learning Environment

Students at the Rastriya Secondary School in Ward No. 7 of Dhangadhi Municipality are delighted to be studying in a safe and fear-free environment. This transformation has been made possible with the support of the Urban Risk Management Project, implemented by FAYA Nepal and Oxfam. Through this initiative, the school’s oldest and most dilapidated building has been strengthened (retrofitted), making it functional once again.

Built in 2046 B.S. (1989 A.D.), this structure was the most deteriorated among all the school buildings. During the development of the school’s Disaster Risk Management Plan, it was identified as highly vulnerable to earthquakes. After thorough discussions, stakeholders decided that retrofitting would be an effective way to mitigate the risk. With the joint efforts of Dhangadhi Municipality, the School Management Committee, and the Urban Risk Management Project, the retrofitting process was successfully completed.

 Teacher’s Perspective: Hope for a Safer Future

Grade 1 teacher Mr. Mohika Chaudhary shared his experience: "At the beginning of the construction work, I was skeptical about whether such an old and weakened building could be reinforced. However, as the work progressed and I observed the process closely, I became confident that the building was indeed becoming stronger and safer. Previously, strong winds and storms would create anxiety, but now my students and I feel completely secure."

A Cost-Effective Alternative to New Construction

Dhangadhi Municipality Engineer Mr. Dwij Raj Bhatt highlighted that retrofitting is a highly cost-effective solution, requiring only 30–35% of the budget needed for constructing a new building of the same size. For example, while building a new two-room structure was estimated to cost NPR 3 million (30 lakhs), the retrofitting process was completed for just NPR 1 million (10 lakhs). Of this, the project contributed NPR 850,000, while the municipality provided NPR 150,000.

An Exemplary Model for Safer Schools

The retrofitted building has not only provided a safer learning environment for students but has also set an example for other schools and communities. Many school buildings in Kailali district remain at risk. If stakeholders continue prioritizing such retrofitting initiatives, significant strides can be made in reducing earthquake-related risks.

Retrofitting is more than just a construction technique; it is a commitment to securing a safer future for children!