A New Look into the Mitrata Graduation Celebration
Graduation has a very special meaning for the children who are supported by Mitrata-Nepal Foundation for Children. It is the manifestation of our mission to empower children through education, healthcare, housing, and support services to become independent citizens of Nepal. When children graduate, they have completed an educational program, either a bachelor‘s degree, healthcare degree, or vocational training that will allow them to support themselves financially and live independently. They are not only graduating from school, they are graduating into self-sufficiency. They are able to enter into adult life, perhaps find a partner, establish a place to live, and engage in the working world.
The meaning of this accomplishment goes beyond what is typical in the USA. The children Mitrata serves come from extreme poverty, and are often the first person in their families to obtain an education. Our children’s parents are often single, uneducated or illiterate, working in low level jobs, or migrant workers. They live day by day on the wages they receive only when they are able to work. They have no money in savings and can only afford the meagerest housing, with dirt floors, no running water, no refrigerators to store food, and many family members living in just one room.
When our children graduate, they are instrumental in lifting their families out of the devastating cycle of poverty. In Nepali culture, family is highly valued. Our children share their earnings with their families due to the deep connections they hold. Education is powerful in Nepal, and our children greatly value the support they have received from Mitrata, BSF, and their sponsors. They know that they have had an opportunity that is very precious.
For all these reasons, we really celebrate graduation! It is an all-day event attended by all the Mitrata children. The day is packed with two meals, singing and dancing performances given by the children and staff, heart-felt speeches, and a ceremony of awards and certificates. After the ceremony, “free dancing” commences, and everyone lets loose with dancing and singing! It is the most joyful experience to witness.
It is our hope that this video will give you a small glimpse into the celebration of the profound accomplishment of overcoming so many obstacles to join a world where basic needs can be met and a bright future is available. I hope when you view this video that you can feel the love, joy, and gratitude. We have graduated 53 children since Mitrata began. Thank you for making this possible.
