As educators, it is our responsibility to broaden our students’ understanding of the world and the diverse cultures and peoples that inhabit it. One way to achieve this is by teaching about Nepal, a small but vibrant nation located in the Himalayas.
To begin with, it is essential to introduce Nepal on the map and provide students with some key geographic details. Nepal is situated north of India and south of Tibet, with an area of approximately 147,181 square kilometers. It is home to over 29 million people, and Nepali is its official language. Additionally, Nepal’s capital city is Kathmandu, and the country’s currency is the Nepalese Rupee.
Once students have the basic geographical information, it is also important to delve into Nepal’s history and heritage. Nepal has a rich culture and is known for its formidable and awe-inspiring Himalayan Mountain range – including Mount Everest, which is the highest peak in the world. Nepal is also famous for its religious sites such as Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha, and the ancient city of Bhaktapur, which is known for its stunning architecture.
Furthermore, Nepal’s culture, with its unique art, music, and traditions, reflects its diverse populations, which include over 100 ethnic groups spread across different terrains. Exploring Nepal’s cultural heritage can allow students to appreciate the importance of diversity and multiculturalism.
Teaching about Nepal’s current events and challenges can also be a valuable and relevant lens through which to approach the country. For instance, Nepal is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, which have devastated the nation in recent years. Additionally, Nepal has experienced a drastic reduction in tourism since the Covid-19 pandemic, which is expected to have significant repercussions on the country’s economy.
In conclusion, when teaching students about Nepal, it is crucial to cover as much ground as possible, from its geography and history to its cultural heritage and current events. Understanding Nepal can help students develop their global awareness, promote cultural harmony, and gain a better appreciation of the world. Finally, teachers should encourage their students to incorporate their lessons on Nepal into their artistic pursuits, such as drawing, poetry, or storytelling, so that they can share their newfound knowledge of Nepal’s rich heritage with others.
