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Indra Chaudhary, 31, is a folk story writer from Kanchanpur. He is currently teaching in Makwanpur. Before this, he was involved in theater. He performed in several dramas and radio plays. He has also acted in a Tharu movie ‘Bhura Bhura Rahar’ which will be released soon. Nowadays, he focuses on writing folk stories that explore culture, language, and community rituals.

He has published two books, ‘Rana Tharu Ma Prachalit Lok Katha Tatha Mithak’ and ‘Tip Tip’ which was introduced at the 8th Tharu Literature Festival in Sunsari this year. He also writes children’s stories. ‘Dhola Farkiyo ta?’, ‘Naya Ban Paley’, and ‘Kapash Ko Ghoda’ have all been inspired by folk tales. In a conversation with Babita Shrestha from ApEx, Chaudhary spoke about his goal of preserving our heritage through cultural writing.

What inspired you to pursue writing as a career?

When I came to Kathmandu to pursue an M.Phil. degree, I got involved in theater. I got to work with different artists. I’m from the Tharu community and while I was there, I realized that there wasn’t much documentation of our folk tales and culture. I decided to do some research for my academic writing. My professors and friends liked my work and encouraged me to write more for Nepali literature. I wrote my first story, ‘Bhumika’ which got published in the Tharu Literary Quarterly. Since then, I’ve been writing with the aim of sharing stories about our culture.

Could you run us through your writing process?

Before I start writing stories, I talk to people from the specific culture I’m exploring. I pay attention to how they talk, their language, and all the little details of their lifestyle. Sometimes, people want to know why I’m doing all that. I explain  that I want to document our culture, traditions, and art to preserve our identity. I learn about their culture and then try to weave those insights into my writing. Right now, I’m researching about the Chepang community. I’m gathering myths and stories for my next project. 

How would you describe your writing style?

When I write stories, I try to capture the actual words and phrases spoken by the native community. This not only adds a personal touch but also keeps the stories authentic. I also include translated statements in Nepali so that everyone, even those who aren’t Tharu, can understand it. I want to make my work lively and interesting so that readers won’t get bored. I want them to feel like they’re listening to these folk stories. I keep the plot engaging and informative to make readers curious. Take, for instance, my book ‘Tip Tip’, a collection of 18 stories published by Maya Publication, which focuses on the Rana Tharu community. It’s full of folk stories I wrote to grab the reader’s attention, each with a captivating climax and a powerful message. I have employed a funny tone to convey a deeper psychological message and symbol. 

Have you faced any significant challenges during your writing journey?

One of the main challenges I have faced in cultural writing is that people often aren’t interested in reading books written in a native language. I noticed this at literature festivals where people hesitated to buy books written in Tharu because they couldn’t understand the language. To tackle this issue, I started including Nepali translations within the lines of my writing to reach a wider audience. Another challenge is raising awareness among locals about reviving fading cultures. Many have lost hope. That is why I feel it’s my duty to preserve our cultural heritage.

Are there any authors that have had a significant impact on your writing?

When I started reading folk literature, I got passionate about working with folk stories. Govinda Acharya’s ‘Tharu Jati ko Lok Geet Ra Lok Sangeet’ has been a huge inspiration. It’s about the eastern Tharu community. That’s when I decided to write about the Rana Tharu community in Kailali and Kanchanpur. Cultural writing became my focus after that. I also want to acknowledge Krishna Raj Sarbahari who guided me on how to proceed with cultural writing. He was the one who told me that it was possible to publish a book in my mother tongue through Pragya Pratisthan.

Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?

I believe cultural writing has a bright future as it’s all about people and their identities, which is important for civilization. So to those thinking of taking up writing, I want to say it’s very important to study and understand your culture and spread awareness about it in any way you can.

Dr Kamana Neupane is a 30-year-old dentist currently practicing at Kantipur Dental College Teaching Hospital and Research Centre. She serves as a consultant periodontist at the teaching hospital, where she shares her expertise with aspiring dental professionals. She obtained her Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree from Chitwan Medical College. She followed that up with a Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) degree from Kantipur Dental College, affiliated to Kathmandu University. 

In addition to her clinical practice, Dr Neupane is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Nepalese Society of Periodontology and Oral Implantology, Nepal Association of Dental Research, and the Nepal Medical Association. She strives to provide the highest quality dental care to her patients while actively contributing to the advancement of dental research and education in Nepal. Rastrika Shakya from ApEx spoke to Dr Neupane about her experience and roles in the field of dentistry.

What do you think about the current state of dental care in Nepal? 

In our region, particularly in the southeastern area, there’s a noticeable lack of awareness about oral health. Many people believe that as we age, our teeth naturally become weaker and see it as normal, which is a misconception. This leads to a general unawareness and lack of motivation regarding oral health. Regular checkups for oral health aren’t common. Most people only visit a dentist when they have severe issues. If people understood the importance of good oral hygiene and made regular visits to the dentist, oral health problems would decrease. Just like we prioritize taking care of other parts of our body, it’s crucial to prioritize our oral health too.

In urban areas, there’s some regard for oral health but in remote areas, there’s very little awareness. For many, oral health care and treatment seem like luxuries rather than necessities. It’s unrealistic to expect people in remote areas to prioritize dental health when they’re struggling to meet their basic needs. However, we can make a positive impact with proper education, awareness, and motivation. 

What are some practices for maintaining good oral hygiene? Are there any habits or behaviors that negatively impact oral health?

Brush your teeth every morning and night, right after meals, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride. Don’t forget about dental floss as it’s crucial for cleaning the spaces between your teeth and removing any leftover food. Also, make sure to rinse your mouth, teeth, and tongue thoroughly. It’s all about keeping your entire mouth clean and healthy. However, maintaining good dental hygiene isn’t the only factor in oral health. Some bad habits can negatively impact our oral health. Smoking, drinking alcohol, and using substances like cocaine, heroin, and tobacco can directly weaken our gums and teeth. Habits such as teeth grinding and breathing through the mouth can also cause problems. Studies have shown that individuals who smoke or abuse substances are four times more likely to experience gum problems than non-smokers. 

What are the key steps you take when a patient comes to your clinic for treatment?

We conduct a comprehensive assessment of their physical and mental well-being. We carefully evaluate their orientation and overall fitness to ensure they are in a condition conducive to receiving treatment. We delve into their medical history to gain insight into the reasons behind their visit and the specific issues they are facing. We take into account their overall health status, recognizing that certain medical conditions can significantly impact oral health. For instance, we are mindful that conditions like diabetes can manifest in oral symptoms such as loose teeth, despite diligent oral hygiene practices.

Then we conduct a thorough examination of the patient’s mouth, often using X-rays, CT scans, and sometimes blood tests for more complex cases. This helps us diagnose any problems. We prioritize treatment based on the patient’s immediate needs, such as relieving pain or addressing swelling. Then we address any underlying issues that the patient might not have been aware of. We take the time to thoroughly explain the patient’s condition, discussing the contributing factors and potential treatment options. By empowering patients with knowledge about their oral health, we enable them to make informed decisions and actively participate in their treatment journey.

Are there any community outreach programs or public health initiatives you’re involved in to promote dental health awareness and education in Nepal?

We actively engage in oral health campaigns within local schools, recognizing the receptivity of young minds to educational initiatives. Through these campaigns, we want to impart fundamental knowledge about maintaining oral hygiene to children. We emphasize the importance of regular brushing and demonstrate proper brushing techniques tailored to their age and understanding. Our commitment to promoting oral health extends beyond the classroom. We also conduct checkups and treatment camps in rural areas. These camps serve as crucial outreach initiatives, providing much-needed dental services to underserved communities. We also take the opportunity to educate attendees about the significance of oral hygiene practices. We aim to instill good oral hygiene habits from a young age and ensure that everyone has access to essential dental services and knowledge.

How do you stay updated on the latest advancements and techniques in dentistry? 

In our field, we rely on international journals to stay updated with the latest advancements. These have articles containing new research, processes, and advancements in dentistry. Researchers share their findings, fill gaps in knowledge, and present results while comparing their work with previous techniques. As a periodontist, I’m part of the periodontal society in Nepal which comprises all Nepali periodontists. We organize three conferences annually. During these conferences, we host national speakers who present on various topics, including postgraduate students sharing their cases and outcomes. We invite international speakers to share insights into developments in their respective countries. These conferences serve as platforms for exchanging information and updating ourselves on the latest trends and practices in periodontology. We also actively participate in international conferences where we can engage with the global dental community, exchange knowledge, and learn about advancements from around the world.

What are your views on the future of dentistry?

When comparing Nepali dentistry with international standards, we find ourselves lagging significantly. Our technologies and practices are outdated, primarily due to affordability constraints. Many Nepali patients struggle to afford advanced dental treatments available in more developed countries. Additionally, the availability of advanced dental equipment and materials in the market is limited in Nepal.

Despite these challenges, there is hope for improvement in the future. With ongoing advancements in technology and increasing awareness, we aspire to bridge the gap and reach the same level as international standards soon. It will require concerted efforts from both the government and the dental community to enhance infrastructure, increase affordability, and improve access to modern dental technologies and practices.

In 1997, Shailaja Adhikary, founded the fashion and interior design education institution, IEC. In 2007, she started Euro Kids, an international preschool chain, in Nepal. The 47-year-old is currently the CEO of IEC Group and the principal of Euro School. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Business Administration from the Golden Gate University in the US. Adhikary believes in competing with oneself rather than comparing oneself to others. Babita Shrestha from ApEx spoke to Adhikary to find out how she aims to provide quality education through her many ventures. 

What strategies do you implement to uphold high academic standards at the institutions under IEC?

At Euro School, we’re pretty forward-thinking as we follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. This means our teaching and learning methods are fun and easy to grasp. Our classrooms have a friendly environment and we like to mix things up with unconventional teaching methods rather than sticking to the same old traditional ways. We focus on our students’ needs and interests, teaching them in creative ways. We give personalized attention, support, and environment to each learner based on their abilities and capacities. We aim to encourage them to explore, develop skills, and foster a love for learning that will stay with them for life. As for our college, our teaching methods and assessments are also different. We adapt to what the students want and what they’re capable of, making sure to meet their demands and interests.

How do you work on curriculum development to ensure an effective educational program?

At Euro Kids, we’ve got some top-notch educators from places like Harvard and other renowned institutions. Our research and development team comes up with a curriculum that’s unique and meets international standards. We provide training for educators to handle this international curriculum. As for IEC under Limkokwing University, their curriculum is top-notch as they always upgrade it to meet industry needs. It’s not just about giving us the curriculum but also offering training to help our educators and teachers grow both professionally and personally.

What should be done to support and enhance teachers’ professional development?

We care about our teachers’ emotions so we have a social-psycho counselor to support them. We believe teachers need to be emotionally strong to handle students so we’ve got a whole department for that at our schools. Also, we bring in international trainers and experts to train our teachers and mentors. This happens regularly at Euro School and we do the same with workshops for IEC too. It’s all about making sure our teachers are supported and keep growing.

What do you do to thrive in the competitive landscape of the fashion education industry?

Fashion and interior design are growing fast in Nepal and I always keep an eye on what others are doing. I won’t fall into the trap of assuming I’m the best. Instead, I want to learn from others and bring some really good ideas to the table. Our teachers get good training from international experts. We’re always updating our curriculum to match what the industry needs. Whether in Nepal or the global scene, we’re forward-thinking and we aim to make our students ready for anything.

Are there specific ways to facilitate students’ access to internships and real-world experiences?

At Euro School, once the students finish SEE, I always suggest they do an internship. Many of them end up joining their parents’ businesses, but we push them to explore other job opportunities during their three-month break. Because I’m invested in entrepreneurship, I try to get my students excited about learning those skills as well. 

At IEC, I ensure every student does an internship after each semester. Right from the first semester, I encourage the students to start from the basics. I want them to learn and gain experience in a social setting. I want them to find their internship placements. This helps them develop good research skills and become independent. I want them to showcase their capabilities using the knowledge and skills they’ve acquired. We review their work and they’re required to present what they’ve learned during their internship. It’s not just about teaching them. We also guide them to become professionals.

How do you plan to integrate technology into teaching and learning practices?

At Euro School, even our first graders are getting into coding and programming. Students are working with drones and visual effects. Technology is an important tool for learning nowadays. At IEC, every assignment and assessment happens digitally. Digital work is just a regular part of the curriculum. In the first semester, students use sketch paper but by the second semester, we assign them digital designing. 

What plans do you have to assess, adapt, and improve the educational programs?

Education is a lifelong journey. We have to keep learning and upgrading ourselves every step of the way. My goal is to turn my students into global citizens who can thrive in any environment and handle the many complexities of the workplace. While their academic success is important, what matters most to me is that they become good people and responsible citizens. As an educator, I encourage them to explore the world and learn wherever they go, but I also urge them to return and give back to their community and country. In the future, I dream of starting a university in Nepal, where I can use the skills I’ve been teaching students to contribute to the country’s resources. I also want to attract international students to Nepal by offering a progressive academic approach. It’s all part of my vision to promote education in Nepal.

Vani Rana, 43, has been working in the education sector for over 15 years. Since 2022, she has been the principal of Uniglobe School. Rana earned her MEd in Educational Leadership from Bank Street College of Education in New York. She first worked as a teacher, then as an elementary school coordinator. She was a vice principal for almost ten years.

She’s certified in teaching, reading, and writing from Teachers College, Columbia University. She recently completed an Instructional Coaching certification from Harvard Graduate School of Education. In a conversation with ApEx, Rana spoke about how she intends to shape the future of education and create an inclusive learning environment.

 What specific initiatives do you plan to implement to support academic excellence and enhance student success?

At Uniglobe School, we prioritize the ‘how’ of learning in all our teaching-learning activities across four key areas: learner, knowledge, assessment, and community. We view each student as a person with unique experiences and prior knowledge, rather than a blank slate. Our teachers are committed to uncovering and addressing any misconceptions or beliefs students may hold, ensuring that their knowledge is integrated into the learning process.

Additionally, we place learning goals at the forefront of every lesson plan, with a focus on the knowledge of students and how they can apply it beyond the classroom. We often use ‘formative assessments’ to help students think and understand better. We give them feedback, both formal and informal, that focuses on real understanding, not just memorizing.

We also have a community-centered approach where everyone learns from one another and improves together. At our school, students are encouraged to join in and help out. We keep things friendly between teachers and students. And it’s okay for students to make mistakes because that’s how they will learn and grow.

 How do you encourage collaboration among faculty, staff, and students to make learning interesting for everyone?

I think it’s really important for people to work together and at Uniglobe School, we’re actively trying to make that happen. We see the school as a community, so we include activities like peer learning, pair and group discussions, and role play in our lessons. Students team up to solve problems, discuss ideas, and consider different viewpoints.

We also want our teachers to share their best ways of teaching with one another and give helpful feedback. The goal is to make our school a place where everyone collaborates and learns from one another. I believe teachers play a huge role in the student’s learning process. We make sure teachers have a good work-life balance as we believe happy teachers bring out the best in their students.

 What frameworks do you integrate to keep up with the trends and best practices in education?

At our school, we embrace the concept of lifelong learning, from the principal to the students. We stay informed about the latest trends and best practices in education. We’ve dedicated time and opportunities for research and self-reflection for all staff members. We also invite experts to share their experiences and regularly distribute research-based materials. Through thoughtful reflection, we explore how we can incorporate evolving practices into our teaching approaches.

 How do you foster a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the school?

Our school is a microcosm of the community with people from various backgrounds and identities. To make sure everyone feels included and has an equitable learning environment, we use a multifaceted approach, developing curricula that incorporate multiple perspectives and learning needs. Our teachers promote restorative practices such as open dialogue, community service, circle conferences, and a special ‘wellness Class’ to promote empathy and cultural understanding. We are also committed to engaging families and communities in our school decision-making through honest communication. Our school policies include anti-discrimination measures, inclusive hiring practices, and accommodations for the diverse needs of students.

How have you used your leadership role to actively support women’s empowerment and gender equality in the school?

I’m dedicated to fostering inclusivity for girls and female staff every day, addressing issues such as menstruation taboos and harassment to create a safer and more supportive learning and workplace environment for all.

According to UNESCO, women principals in schools have a big impact on student success. They organize meetings with parents, offer extra help to students, and keep a close watch on teacher attendance. Schools led by women also have fewer teacher absences, making for a better learning environment. And I believe my role in the school is very similar. Women have traditionally been seen as teachers, but now they’re leading schools too. I’m proud to be breaking stereotypes.

 What initiatives have you planned for creating a more inclusive environment for women in the school?

We have been following a gender-responsive pedagogy in lesson planning, content delivery, and classroom management. This helps to prevent gender stereotyping, improve classroom participation of girls and boys, and the development of their critical workplace skills. Our curriculum is reviewed regularly as it’s important to us that men/boys and women/girls are represented in various roles, not just conventional ones.

We are also committed to being a gender-responsive school by including practices such as providing equal pay, equal teaching conditions, equal representation in management positions, and equitable division of work for all staff irrespective of gender. We allow flexible schedules and other accommodations that address teachers’ family responsibilities. We’ve set clear rules against harassment and abuse for teachers, staff, and students, with a ‘zero-tolerance policy’.