Learning their native language, 42 students completed a summer course where they learned the Nepalese language.
On Saturday, students from the Nepali Language School celebrated a summer of hard work.
In total, 42 Nepalese-American children ages 4-11 completed the weekly summer course, which ran on Saturdays from June through August, according to International Nepali Literary Society Colorado Chapter President Raju Sitaula.
“We want to teach children of Nepali families in Colorado to read and write the Nepali language,” he said. “We’re seeking to preserve language and cultural knowledge.”
Since 2003, the Nepali Literary Society in Colorado has aided the Nepali American community with a wealth of literary and educational programs.
“We are highly encouraged by the support and interest we got from parents and kids and are planning to continue the school next summer and expand it to other cities in Colorado,” he said.
Nepal kids rarely learn about the purpose behind their cultural celebrations, according to Sunanda Dangol, coordinator of the first Nepali Jatra, in Longmont.
Dangol tried for many years to coordinate the event, without much luck. However, in May she was able find the funding to get the event off the ground.
Expecting a small crowd, Dangol was surprised when nearly 400 people showed up to celebrate the Nepalese culture, she said. Her goal, like many others from the Front Range Nepalese community want to teach their youth — many of whom have never experienced their culture firsthand — their traditions and celebrations.
The school will continue its cultural teachings through its upcoming fundraising event on Saturday. The event will feature a trio of renowned Nepali singers: Robin Sharma, Reema Gurung Hoda and Bijay Adhikari.
“There will also be dance performances by three local child artists: Dilasha Karki, Bibhuti Adhikari and Priyanka Shrestha,” Sitaula said.
Contingent on funding, Sitaula said organizers hope to expand offerings at the Nepali Language School.
“We will probably schedule shorter sessions prior to next summer,” he said. “We hope to have a longer session next summer.”
The event will be held on Saturday at 6 p.m. at the Broomfield Auditorium. For more information about the event email the Nepali Language School at [email protected].
