Empowering Local Ideas Through Innovation and Engagement: iJatra at Simara

Continuing its commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship, i Jatra was successfully held at Shree Nepal Rashtriya Secondary School located in Dumarbana, Jeetpursimara Sub-Metropolitan, Madhesh Pradesh on 12th Falgun 2082. Organized approximately six months after the iLab program in the same school, the event celebrated innovation while further honing the entrepreneurial skills of students.

Different personnels such as the deputy mayor of Jeetpursimara Sub-Metropolitan, WorldLink Communications representatives, teachers, school leadership, students from neighboring schools, and local community members visited the stalls.

There were around 12-15 stalls, attracting around 400-500 visitors showcasing a variety of products and food items. Students demonstrated remarkable creativity and critical thinking through their products. One group produced paper pencils made from recycled paper waste. Similarly, another stall upcycled waste wood and cardboard into high-end decorative lamps, reflecting their ability to transform everyday waste materials into useful and marketable products. Recognizing the growing demand for jewellery and people’s fascination with handmade items, one stall created and sold handmade pearl jewellery, including earrings, bracelets, and necklaces. They also crafted saree pins and brooches inspired by the Tamang culture of “Shilam Shakma.” Another group produced paper handicrafts such as roses, bouquets, and dream catchers. One of them also sold 3d printed bookmarks.

With the aim of promoting local food and commercializing it within the wider community, students marketed and sold traditional sweets such as thekuwa, rasket, and gujiya. In addition, one stall sold homemade chicken achar prepared by the students themselves. They also sold  popular street foods like panipuri and chatpate.

This event helped to change the perspective of the community, and the teachers about the outcome of instilling entrepreneurship skills to the students. Overall, students gained greater confidence and developed a strong determination to create and contribute within their community. Similarly, representatives from Worldlink visited stalls and appreciated the commitment, creativity, and work of the students. Their ability to transform ideas into reality was highly acknowledged and appreciated.