Kopila Valley School Wins 2023 Green Difference Award
Thursday, May 11, 2023
Kopila Valley School, the “greenest school in Nepal,” has been awarded a Green Difference Award for 2023 in the Green and Healthy Schools category. The award honors outstanding environmental education and STEAM education efforts in schools and communities across the globe.
Located in the Karnali region of rural western Nepal, Kopila Valley offers free, high-quality education to over 400 children in the region, most of whom would not be able to attend school otherwise. The innovative and sustainably-built green campus uses place-based learning and an environmental studies curriculum that includes outdoor learning and agriculture projects such as gardening, composting, and permaculture training.
Founded as a program of the BlinkNow Foundation in 2010, Kopila Valley School built a sustainable and environmentally-conscious school building in 2019, using a solar-powered cooking system, rainwater recycling, and rammed earth walls that cut down on heating costs. This facility is used as a teaching tool for students and the community, promoting care for the earth and global citizenship.
Beyond the classroom, students and teachers take collective action to reduce waste, conserve energy, and reuse materials. The additional programs of BlinkNow integrate environmental education across all initiatives, including a Children’s Home, Health & Wellness program, Women's Center, Home for At-Risk Students, and a Futures Career Readiness Program.
Eco-conscious practices are spreading as students share the need for sustainability with their families and communities. Environmental action classes are provided to the community, and local farmers are trained in organic practices, to protect the local food supply chain and offer income opportunities to small local farmers.
While remaining connected to the local culture, language, and land, students are also prepared to be future leaders in their communities, region, and the world.
Founded in 2007, Project Green Schools strives to empower youth to drive positive change toward creating a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future. To date, the organization has reached millions of individuals looking to make the green difference in schools and communities throughout the U.S. and across the globe. The annual Green Difference Awards recognize the achievements of green education advocates and environmental leaders of all ages making strides for our planet, from students, teachers, and school administrators to citizens and community leaders.
The BlinkNow Foundation provides an education and a loving, caring home for orphaned, impoverished and at-risk children. Founded by American Maggie Doyne and Nepali Tope Malla, the foundation also provides community outreach to reduce poverty, empower women, improve health, and encourage sustainability and social justice - it fulfills its mission by providing financial support and management oversight to the Kopila Valley Children's Home and Kopila Valley School in Surkhet, Nepal. In addition to the home and school, Kopila Valley runs a Health & Wellness program, Women's Center, Home for At-Risk Students, Futures Career Readiness Program, and integrated Sustainability Program across all initiatives.