Cultural Differences

On our third day in Nepal, we embraced cultural differences at every level. This theme was present throughout the day. Let us walk you through some of the major ones...

Concept of time: Punctuality is remiss in Nepal. When our colleagues tell us they will meet us in 30 minutes, it really means within approx an hour or hour and a half (Nepali time).

Religious differences: Nepal consists of two major religions, Hindu and Buddhism. We took a trip to the Boudha Temple, one of the largest in the world, which was absolutely beautiful and fascinating. The chanting in the backround, candles, rituals that promised peace, and enlightenment filled our senses. As we walked through another square, we also came across a Hindu God.

Boudha temple

Hindu God

Educational differences: We visited some of the elementary schools, which left us feeling heartbroken. The schools are completely run down. Each classroom consists of one blackboard and 5 benches. Classrooms for each grade level are only separated by a mobile chalkboard. We also learned that the profession of being a teacher is not respected and is seen as a last resort if they are unable to find any other jobs. Therefore, needless to say, children are exposed to deplorable learning environments as well as individuals who do not care. Ironically enough, one of the schools we visited was in, what used to be, a Buddhist temple. 

City center school

School in an old Buddhist temple

Typical classroom

Social differences: Our senses were completely overwhelmed and overstimulated again today. As we walked through Durbar square (a tourist site that consists of temples and museums), we were faced with crowds of people walking the streets that had cars and motorbikes trying to occupy the same space, in addition to children following us, begging for money. We felt like we had to be on high alert at all times - dodging cars, motorbikes, people, all while hearing the endless honking noises of all the cars and bikes trying to pass. It was overwhelming, to say the least, and really drained us. Luckily, our colleagues were quite supportive and helpful through the process, but for us, it was difficult given that we are not used to these living conditions. 

Communication differences: Nepali people are incredibly polite, so it's hard to know who they really are.  We learned they will say one thing, but may mean another, making it interesting for negotiations. There is a lack of communication due to their politeness, so one is not always aware of their true intentions. We also leaned that true intentions and their sense of timing will take you by surprise. 

While we encountered many differences, our journey is teaching us to embrace them. The irony is that the materials of Speak To Children teach children and teachers to celebrate differences. So we will look to celebrate these differences in the days to come when training our teachers. 

We leave you with a quote, "Unexpected travel suggestions are dancing lessons from God." - Kurt Vonnegut

Namaste