Chih-Yi Wu, Mun-Keat Lee, Hui-Chen Chang, Huang-Ming Yin| Reporting from Nepal 

In the rural expanse of Lumbini, Nepal, surrounded by lush fields and humble homes, lies Siddhartha School. Despite its modest red-brick appearance, this school holds immense hope for the local community. Until now, the school has lacked essential resources and proper facilities, but all of that is about to change with Tzu Chi Foundation’s commitment to providing an educational sanctuary that can uplift generations. 

Education is seen here as the key to breaking the cycle of poverty. Hence, the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Siddhartha School campus is more than a routine event—it’s a beacon of hope for families who dream of a brighter future for their children.  Local leaders and school officials have joined hands to ensure every detail of the ceremony reflects the dedication and reverence they hold for this transformative mission. 

In a region where most residents rely on agriculture, economic hardship is common. Yet, through persistent effort and compassion, Tzu Chi volunteers and local leaders have worked tirelessly to bring the promise of education closer to every child in Lumbini. “Through education, we can pave a way out of poverty. This groundbreaking ceremony symbolizes that very hope,” one school official remarked, emphasizing the significance of this milestone for all involved. 

The current conditions in the school reveal the determination of both students and teachers to pursue education, regardless of obstacles. Facing sweltering temperatures that can reach over 40 degrees Celsius, students and teachers gather, often drenched in sweat, to attend classes in rooms without fans or proper ventilation. Recognizing these challenges, Tzu Chi took the initiative to install ceiling fans, bringing some relief to the students and teachers. 

Creating a Nurturing Environment 

“Our goal is to create a nurturing environment,” said Piyu Lin, Vice President of Tzu Chi Foundation. “With the addition of new facilities like a library and a computer room, we are providing more than a building; we are shaping a supportive and dignified space for learning.” 

For Siddhartha School’s Principal, Altaf Husen Khan, the transformation has extended beyond infrastructure. Inspired by Tzu Chi’s philosophy of education through love, the school has embraced a compassionate approach, moving away from traditional disciplinary practices. "We teach with love now," Principal Altaf shared, “which is something Tzu Chi has taught us—to respect our students and nurture them with kindness.” 

The shift has made a profound impact on the students, who now feel a sense of belonging and safety within their school. Over the past few years, student enrollment has steadily risen, with nearly 200 children now attending. The school is buzzing with the sounds of active, enthusiastic learners, each dressed in a distinctive blue uniform, reflecting their pride in being part of the Siddhartha School family. 

As the day of the groundbreaking approached, Tzu Chi volunteers and school staff meticulously planned every aspect of the event to ensure it would convey the depth of their commitment. Students diligently practiced sign language performances to demonstrate their respect for the occasion. Even minor adjustments in gestures were made with utmost care, symbolizing the reverence they hold for this new chapter. 

VP Lin described the event’s symbolism, saying, “Love is the foundation—strong and steady. Wisdom is like the walls, also firm and upright. But here, the school walls are slanted and leaning.” Volunteers prepared chant booklets for the monastics who would be reciting blessings, every detail crafted to foster a solemn and respectful atmosphere.

The Finishing Touches 

On the day before the ceremony, Tzu Chi volunteers from Malaysia, led by Shea Sieng Toh, worked tirelessly to prepare the venue. With great care, they smoothed the circular sand mound and adjusted the Tzu Chi emblems, readying the space for the next day’s ceremony. “We’ve placed 30 plaster emblems, all meticulously crafted, to represent our dedication to this school and its future,” Toh explained, his voice filled with pride and anticipation. 

As volunteers moved across the grounds, they finalized the last details. “The sun is hitting just right,” said Malaysian volunteer Soon Hock Tan, coordinating with others to ensure everything was in place for a memorable event. 

Leaving a Legacy of Hope and Unity 

The construction of Siddhartha School includes a well-organized campus layout, with a library, computer rooms, and other educational facilities previously unseen in the Lumbini region. “This school is more than bricks and mortar; it represents an investment in the minds and hearts of the children here,” said VP Lin. “While infrastructure is important, it’s the nurturing and uplifting spirit we hope to leave behind that matters most.” 

From the early planning stages to the final preparations for the groundbreaking, Tzu Chi volunteers worked together with residents, overcoming language and logistical barriers to bring this project to life. Malaysian volunteer Suat Keng Ang expressed a sentiment shared by many, saying, “These blessing packets we’re preparing, with Jing Si Aphorisms in Nepali, represent our wish for every villager’s success and happiness.” 

The journey from vision to realization has not been without challenges. Within a month, volunteers tackled local festivals, limited resources, and tight schedules to see the project through. With each volunteer united by a shared purpose, the sense of camaraderie among all is undeniable. “Although we come from different places, we speak the same language of compassion,” said volunteer Soon Hock Tan. “Our shared identity as Tzu Chi volunteers makes every task easier and more meaningful.” 

A Brighter Future Begins 

With the groundbreaking ceremony complete, the anticipation for Siddhartha School’s future is palpable. Volunteers, educators, and community members alike envision a thriving campus where students will grow, learn, and carry forward the values of compassion, resilience, and unity. For the people of Lumbini, Siddhartha School is not just a building; it is a legacy of hope that will inspire future generations to dream beyond limitations.