A Personal Connection
This mission holds deep personal significance for Dipak Niroula, the founder of BLSO USA. Having grown up in rural Nepal, Dipak attended underserved schools. Now, in a full-circle moment, he has made these schools the centerpiece of BLSO USA’s inaugural program, honoring his roots while empowering the next generation.
Unable to afford meals or even snacks, Dipak spent long hungry days journeying to and from school with nothing more than a pile of books in his arms. Shoes were a luxury he could only dream of. His thin flip flops barely protected him from the rocky terrain. During monsoon season, he shielded himself from the rain with plastic sheets or leaves from nearby trees. As soon as he got home, he spent the daylight hours helping take care of the farm with his parents and studied by the dim light of a wood fire at night.
“I remember those days vividly,” Dipak recalls. “I loved learning, but the challenges were overwhelming. It wasn’t just about education—it was about survival. My dream was to see children from my village have opportunities that were never possible for me.”
While some progress has been made, the reality for many children in these rural areas has not changed significantly. Thirty-five years later, Dipak is determined to give back to his community and ensure no child endures the hardships he faces.
Why Rural Nepal?
Despite small improvements, rural Nepal remains one of the most challenging environments for education due to:
- Extreme Poverty: Families struggle to afford basic supplies like books and uniforms.
- Gender Inequality: Girls often drop out early due to cultural norms and lack of resources.
- Lack of Infrastructure: Many schools lack libraries, technology, and proper classrooms.
- Health and Nutrition Issues: Malnutrition continues to impact learning and attendance.
