Safeguarding the Next Generation

At EQUIP, where I work as a project coordinator, our main goal is to improve schools by promoting quality education. A big part of this is making sure that schools are safe places for children. While Nepal has started recognizing the importance of child safety, old-fashioned discipline is still a problem. Physical punishment is common in many schools, which makes it hard to create a child-friendly environment. Sadly, many children experience abuse, often without teachers or parents even realizing it. Research shows that over 80% of children face violent discipline, and issues like child marriage and trafficking for labor or sexual exploitation are still widespread (UNICEF, 2018).

To tackle these problems, EQUIP has started raising awareness among teachers and parents. As the child safeguarding officer at KISC, I have been leading training sessions for school leaders, teachers, and parents. In Rukum West, we trained leaders on making school policies, which brought about some changes. Head teacher Rudra Prasad Giri said, "I didn’t know physical punishment was illegal. I used to follow what was normal in our community, but now I see this was wrong. I will work with parents and teachers to use better, non-violent methods."

Teachers have shared similar stories. Mr. Pariyar, another teacher, admitted he used to think physical punishment was the way to discipline kids. "I now see that it’s not. I’ll stop right away. I also learned that separate toilets for teachers and students are important to prevent abuse. I will make sure we put a safeguarding policy in place soon."

In follow-up visits, we’ve seen progress. Teachers have created codes of conduct and set up child safeguarding committees. But there are still challenges. Many communities are attached to traditional discipline, and this can make it hard for teachers to push for change. Still, we are making progress. By continuing to train and guide teachers and parents, we’re helping build safer and more caring environments for children.

On a personal level, I am deeply thankful for the strength and wisdom God has given me throughout this journey. Recently, I had the opportunity to write devotionals for Scripture Union, focusing on the book of 1 Thessalonians. One theme kept standing out to me: the power of faith, love, and service. It is a message that feels very close to my heart, both in my work with EQUIP and in my involvement at church.

I have also been counseling a group of college students about taking small steps to create a bigger impact. The main goal is to encourage them to think big, but start small, and to consider staying in Nepal to make a difference here. On the home front, our sons are still in school, and my wife, like me, is also a teacher.

 Praise God for the progress we are witnessing in schools and families, and let’s pray for even more opportunities to share Christ’s love with others.

 Please also lift the teachers and principals who took part in the safeguarding training. Pray that they continue to apply what they’ve learned, protecting and nurturing the children under their care.

Thank you for your unwavering partnership in this ministry. Your prayers, encouragement, and support are a constant source of strength. As we press on toward the goal of safeguarding future generations, I am reminded of the power of a united body of Christ. May we continue to be His hands and feet, impacting lives for His glory.

Krishna