Track Suit Distribution to ECDC Students by Sejal and Sister Foundation
Beldangi, Jhapa – The Bhutanese refugee community in
Beldangi once again witnessed a moment of solidarity and encouragement as
students of the Early Childhood Development Center (ECDC) School received track
suits from Sejal and Sister Foundation. The program, held recently at
the school premises, brought smiles, enthusiasm, and a renewed sense of
belonging among the children who continue to pursue education under difficult
circumstances.
ECDC: A School Born from Community Effort
ECDC School stands out as the only functioning
school inside the Beldangi Refugee Settlement. While most institutions in the
camp were initially supported by international donors and humanitarian agencies
such as UNHCR, ECDC’s story is different.
ECDC school was established in 2019–2020
through the dedication and collective effort of Bhutanese refugee social
activists along with the Camp Management Team of that period. Their vision was
to ensure that refugee children, many of whom were at risk of losing access to
education after the withdrawal of major organizations from the settlement,
would still have a place to learn, grow, and prepare for the future.
Currently, the school is running with the support of
Nakshatra Foundation, an external partner that has been providing financial
backing to help keep the institution alive. Yet, the spirit of ECDC has always
been rooted in the self-reliance and determination of the Bhutanese refugee
community itself.
A Timely Support for Students
The track suit distribution program recognized the
continuing struggle of refugee children to pursue education despite limited
resources. Community leaders and school representatives expressed gratitude to
Sejal and Sister Foundation for their thoughtful support, which will help
promote a sense of unity and motivation among students.
Speaking at the event, representatives highlighted
that such contributions not only provide physical comfort for students but also
reinforce hope and solidarity within the refugee community.
ECDC has been playing a vital role in ensuring
access to education for Bhutanese refugee children, even in the absence of
large-scale donor backing. The recent gesture by Sejal and Sister Foundation
adds another chapter to the ongoing story of resilience, community support, and
collective progress in the settlement.
Conclusion
The track suit distribution event at ECDC School in
Beldangi was more than just a clothing program—it was a moment of recognition,
support, and solidarity for refugee children striving for a better future.
