The Need
In Solukhumbu, primary education is free, but secondary school requires fees for tuition, books, uniforms, and supplies. Many bright students from low-income families must drop out after grade 8 because their families cannot afford these costs.
Without secondary education, young people have limited employment options beyond subsistence farming or low-wage labor. Girls are particularly affected, often being kept home to help with household work or married young when families cannot afford school fees.
Education is the most powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty, but financial barriers prevent talented students from reaching their potential. These students have the ability and motivation to succeed—they just need financial support.