Why Education is important to us

Education Challenges in Nepal 

Nepal faces significant barriers to education. Literacy levels are below the global average, with only an estimated 70% of people aged 15 and above able to read a simple text. On top of this, Nepal is one of the countries most at risk from climate-related disasters, which can damage infrastructure, making it much harder for children to consistently attend school. 

These challenges are exactly why access to education and learning resources matters to Sherpa. 

Riyan’s Story 

For Riyan, a six-year-old boy from Nepal’s Gorkha District, education means much more to him than learning to read and write. 

Riyan was only able to attend school once a week, on library day. His mother was very unwell, and his father had to travel long distances for work, leaving Riyan and his older sister to care for their bedridden mother at home. 

On library day, Riyan would collect enough books to last the week and each evening, after finishing his chores, he would sit beside his mother’s bed and read the stories to her. Caring for his mother was his priority and the books from Room to Read’s library brought him and his mother joy – she loved listening to him read to her. 

Then one day, everything changed. Riyan’s mother sadly passed away. 

Despite grieving, Riyan began attending school every day. His teacher made sure he was supported, offering gentle encouragement and extra reading materials. Riyan says he likes his teacher because she encourages him to read and supports him in a way that reminds him of his mother. 

For Riyan, and so many others, school is more than a place of education. It can be a place of refuge and comfort. Books can be a source of healing and hope - especially during the most difficult moments of a child’s life. 

Accessible education and learning resources have the power to shape young lives in ways that go far beyond the classroom. 

Why we’re proud to support Room to Read 

Riyan’s story is just one of many that inspire our partnership with Room to Read. The charity works closely with local educators, providing the training and resources needed to help more children learn to read and write effectively. They also support schools in creating child-friendly classroom libraries, filled with colourful, local-language books written and illustrated by local authors who understand their communities. 

Recognising the gender inequality in education in Nepal, Room to Read also runs a Girls’ Education Program, supporting secondary school students - mainly girls - through mentorship and life-skills workshops. These programs help young people navigate challenges such as bias, social pressure, and the risk of dropping out of school too early. To see how this support can change lives, you can read Sulochana’s story here.

Education Changes Everything 

Education changes lives. It can open doors, nurture resilience, and offer hope — even in the hardest moments. Through our partnership with Room to Read, and with the support of our community, we’re helping more children like Riyan access not just education, but greater opportunity, comfort, and possibility.

This World Day of Education, we’re proud to double our impact by donating two school days for every item sold, because when children are given the chance to learn, they’re better equipped to shape their own futures.