Building Futures in Skardu: How Your Support Powered a Semester of Growth
At Rakaposhi Organics, our commitment extends beyond providing wellness from the Himalayas; it's about nurturing the communities within them. We are proud to share the latest narrative report from our partnership with the Narjis Khatoon Hearing Impairment School and College in Skardu. This update is a direct reflection of the impact made possible by our community—by you. The past semester was a vibrant tapestry of learning, creativity, and empowerment. We invite you to read their story below and see how your choice to be part of Rakaposhi Organics helps build tangible futures, one skill and one smile at a time.
An International Inspiration
The academic season began on an inspiring note with the visit of Mr. Mathieves, a deaf teacher from France, who volunteered his time as a teacher and trainer. His presence served as a powerful role model for students, demonstrating firsthand the heights they can achieve. Through interactive workshops and classroom demonstrations, he shared innovative teaching strategies tailored for deaf learners, leaving both staff and students motivated and equipped with fresh, modern approaches to education.
Art in Service to the Community
The students of Narjis Khatoon extended their creativity beyond the school walls, embracing a spirit of community service. They took great pride in decorating the Skarchan School in Shigar and, in a particularly meaningful project, painted the walls of Thorgu Hospital. This work not only added color and positivity to the health facility but also taught the students valuable lessons in teamwork, discipline, and the joy of contributing to their community. Notably, one of our graduates is now proudly serving as a teacher in Shigar, a testament to the school's mission of empowering deaf youth for independent futures.
Celebrating Identity and Building Foundations
In September, the school celebrated Deaf Week with great enthusiasm. Students designed pamphlets and banners featuring motivational quotes about deaf identity and empowerment. This celebration was crucial for building self-esteem, strengthening cultural pride, and raising awareness in the broader community about the abilities and rights of deaf individuals.
Meanwhile, in the Kindergarten section, the youngest learners engaged in hands-on activities designed to spark joy and development. They crafted paper bags and learning materials from simple items and practiced counting with buttons, turning foundational skills into playful and interactive experiences.
Crafting Skills for Independence
The vocational training classroom was a hub of impressive productivity and skill acquisition. Students showcased their growing tailoring expertise by stitching 20 complete school uniforms for the students of Skarchan School. They also designed beautiful floral patchwork sweaters and learned intricate embroidery, applying floral patterns to shirts and kurtas. Many of these handmade items were sold at reasonable prices, giving students their first taste of entrepreneurship and a tangible path toward financial independence.
Embracing the Digital World
To ensure students are prepared for the modern world, computer classes focused on essential digital literacy. Students learned to create simple Scratch games and gained practical skills in Microsoft PowerPoint, Word, and Excel. These technological competencies are vital building blocks for future higher education and employment opportunities.
A Grand Showcase of Talent
The semester culminated in a grand Talent Exhibition on November 20th, a dazzling display of the skills nurtured within the school. Students competed and showcased their abilities in sketching, painting, pottery, jewelry making, stitching, bamboo craft, and embroidery. The event provided a proud platform for students to express their creativity, refine their craftsmanship, and experience the spirit of healthy competition.
The exhibition day also included the announcement of first-term results. The event began with heartfelt student performances, including Tilawat and Tablos. Position holders were celebrated for their academic excellence, encouraging all students to strive for their personal best.
Our Shared Commitment
This report from Narjis Khatoon School is more than a list of activities; it's a story of potential unlocked, dignity earned, and community strengthened. It vividly illustrates how targeted support can translate into education, artistry, confidence, and self-reliance.
At Rakaposhi Organics, we believe true wellness is holistic—it encompasses the vitality of individuals and the health of communities. We are deeply grateful that you, through your support, are part of this meaningful work. Together, we are not just sourcing the purest shilajit from the Himalayas; we are helping to nurture its most precious resource: the bright, capable future of its children.
