Nepali youth taking part in an educational camp organized by the Thai-Nepali Association in Ratchaburi, Thailand. (Photo: Ramesh Khadka)
The Thai Nepali Association is hosting the Sixth Annual National Level Educational Camp at a campsite in Ratchaburi, located approximately 88 kilometers southwest of Bangkok, Thailand.
Nepali youth and children from various cities across Thailand are currently participating in a summer vacation educational camp running from April 6 to 11.
Over 600 people, including Thai-Nepali youth and children above 10 years old, camp directors, parents, and volunteers from the Thai-Nepali Association, are participating in this week-long educational camp. The camp aims to empower Thai-Nepali youth and children by fostering their language and cultural development.
The camp offers a diverse program, encompassing everything from personality development workshops and leadership sessions to sports tournaments, yoga and asana classes, self-defence training, and entertaining events.
Similarly, discussions will delve into social issues, the progress of Nepali society, the importance of education, and the history of Nepalis in Thailand. The camp also features inspirational talks and discussions based on the biographies of motivational figures, the organizers said.
Besides, the camp infuses a strong sense of Nepali identity through cultural activities like awareness songs, poems, and traditional entertainment.
Lakshman KC, the president of the Thai-Nepali Association, said, "The camp will foster a strong connection to Nepali heritage among Thai-Nepali youth. By promoting Nepali language, culture, and history, the camp aspires to preserve these traditions for future generations."
Kumar Karki, the patron of the Association, said, the Thai-Nepali Association is hosting this week-long educational camp with the aim of strengthening the cultural identity and knowledge of Nepali youth in Thailand. "The camp's programs are designed to expand participants' understanding of language, culture, and foster connections among Thai-Nepali children," said Karki.
Despite the hot weather, the dedication of these young students is commendable. Ram Prasad Pokharel, the camp chief, said the valuable lessons learned here in the camp will contribute to the development of the Nepali community in Thailand.
Yubalal Gautam, director of the camp, said that this camp will be important to carry the identity, language and culture of Thai Nepalis to the next generation. Echoing this sentiment, Deepak Parajuli, the head of the camp education department, expressed hope that the camp will revitalize the practice of Nepali culture among Thai-Nepali youth.
The camp benefits from a dedicated team of volunteers and teachers including representatives from various Thai-Nepali Association branches. Additionally, around 20 trained teachers serve as assistants, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience for all participants.
The camp curriculum incorporates valuable insights from guest speakers. Gopal Dhital from America, and Ramesh Khadka, a scholar of Nepali history, from Nepal, delivered presentations and interacted with participants, exploring Nepali history and the role of youth in the future. Similarly, Khushi Karki, the winner of Mero Dance Universe, also shared her experiences, inspiring the young campers.
