Since 2013, ProNepal has maintained a close and enduring partnership with the community of Saimarang, which is located approximately 15 kilometres north-east of Pokhara. The foundation of this connection was laid by Mr. Tsering Lama, who was born in this village and whose daughter has been living in South Tyrol for nearly 20 years.

It all began in 2015 with the construction of a natural science laboratory – a facility the school in Saimarang had previously been entirely without, and which for the first time gave students access to hands-on science education.

In 2017, an especially meaningful project followed: the construction of a Buddhist Gompa. Saimarang holds great spiritual significance, and the new Gompa once again made it possible to hold Buddhist festivals and ceremonies for a wide community – many believers travel from across the entire region to attend, often after several days on foot.

In 2017, members of the ProNepal board paid a visit to Saimarang. This gave them the opportunity to gain valuable insights and establish personal contacts. They were also able to capture their impressions in photos and a short film.

In 2023, the community turned to ProNepal once again, this time requesting support to furnish a newly built cultural centre. The Nepalese government had constructed the building itself, but the cost of fitting it out fell to the local population. The cultural centre complements the Gompa perfectly: it provides space and hospitality for the many visitors who come to attend the celebrations.

School Meals – A Hot Meal for 85 Children

Since 2015,  ProNepal has also been supporting the pupils of the local school in Saimarang with a daily hot meal. As school runs from 9 a.m. until around 3 p.m., a meal in the middle of the day is not merely welcome – for many children, it is simply essential. Around 85 children benefit each year, at a cost of 25 rupees per child per day.

ProNepal contributes approximately €2,500 per year; a further €500 is raised by the local community itself – a heartening sign of shared responsibility.