Overview
SOS Hermann Gmeiner School Surkhet, situated amidst the tranquility of Birendranagar-4, Kalagaoun, Surkhet, is a renowned educational institution operated under the auspices of SOS Kinderdorf International. Established in 1989 AD, the school is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to delivering exceptional education to children from SOS Children's Village Surkhet, as well as those from the local community. By extending scholarship assistance to families enrolled in the Family Strengthening Program and other marginalized groups, the school aims to create a diverse student body.
Comprehensive Student Composition:
At SOS Hermann Gmeiner Secondary School, the student population comprises a wide spectrum of individuals. From scholarship students and children from SOS Children's Village Surkhet to staff members' children and fee-paying students, the school fosters an inclusive environment. With its non-profit status, the institution endeavors to serve society by offering high-quality education at affordable fees.
Guiding Principles:
The philosophy of SOS Hermann Gmeiner Secondary School aligns with the vision of the founder of SOS Children's Villages, who believed that all children in the world are our collective responsibility. The school adheres to the guidelines set forth by the United Nations, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UN CRC). Moreover, it upholds the child protection policy of SOS International, emphasizing the belief that no child should grow up alone. Recognizing the unique qualities of each child, the school embraces the notion that every child deserves love and possesses their own special talents.
Commitment to Quality Education:
As a beacon of educational excellence, SOS Hermann Gmeiner Secondary School is committed to providing top-notch instruction. The school's curriculum is designed to meet rigorous standards, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education. With a team of dedicated and highly qualified teachers, the institution fosters an engaging learning environment that stimulates intellectual growth and personal development.
Community Engagement:
SOS Hermann Gmeiner Secondary School actively engages with the local community, recognizing the importance of collaboration between the school and its surroundings. Through various initiatives, the institution promotes social responsibility, instilling values of compassion, empathy, and respect in its students. By fostering a sense of civic duty, the school prepares students to become responsible global citizens who actively contribute to the betterment of society.
SOS Hermann Gmeiner Secondary School in Surkhet stands as a testament to the power of education in transforming lives. By providing quality education to a diverse student body and upholding the principles of inclusivity and child well-being, the school has become a pillar of the community. With its unwavering commitment to excellence, SOS Hermann Gmeiner Secondary School continues to shape the future of its students and contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.
History:
Establishment and Early Years: SOS Hermann Gmeiner School Surkhet was established in 1989 as a response to the need for quality education for children residing in SOS Children's Village Surkhet and the surrounding communities. Initially, the school began as a primary school, offering classes from Nursery to Grade Five, with operational permission granted on April 20, 2045 BS. The expenses were covered by the SOS National Executive Committee in Nepal.
Expansion of Grade Levels: In line with its commitment to providing comprehensive education, SOS Hermann Gmeiner School Surkhet introduced Grade Six in the academic session of 2048 BS. Following that, operational permission was granted to start Grade Seven from the academic session of 2049 BS. Over the subsequent years, Grades Eight, Nine, and Ten were successively added, with operational permissions obtained for each academic session from 2050 to 2052 BS. This culminated in the school's participation in the national level School Leaving Certificate Examination (SLC) in 2053 BS, with 26 students appearing for the first time.
Affiliation and Expansion to Higher Secondary Education: To further elevate the educational offerings, SOS Hermann Gmeiner School Surkhet obtained affiliation from the Higher Secondary Education Board (HSEB) on July 21, 2060 BS. With this affiliation, the school expanded to Grade 11 in the Management stream, commencing from the academic session of 2060 BS with 40 students. Subsequently, in 2076 BS, the school introduced the Science stream to cater to students' diverse interests and academic pursuits. As part of this transition, the management stream phased out its operations, becoming effective from 2080 BS.
Continued Commitment to Growth and Development: SOS Hermann Gmeiner School Surkhet has continually evolved to meet the educational needs of its students. By expanding its grade levels, obtaining affiliations, and diversifying its academic streams, the school has demonstrated its dedication to providing holistic education. With a focus on nurturing the intellectual, emotional, and personal growth of its students, the school remains committed to fostering an environment where students can thrive and reach their full potential.
Who We Are:
SOS Children's Villages is a global organization dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of children growing up without adequate care, protection, and guidance. We work locally, alongside children, young people, and families, to provide support, advocate for children's rights, and lay the foundations for a brighter future.
Advocating for Children's Rights:
At SOS Children's Villages, we firmly believe that all children have equal rights to care, protection, and a healthy, abuse-free life. We actively defend and promote these rights on a global, regional, and national level. Through partnerships, we strive to improve laws, policies, and practices to ensure that every child, young person, and their families receive the necessary care and support. By advocating for their rights, we empower children to become their strongest selves.
Our Vision:
Our vision is simple yet powerful: every child deserves to belong to a family where they can experience love, respect, and security. We believe that family is the foundation for a child's well-being and healthy development. By promoting family-based care, we aim to create a nurturing environment that allows children to flourish and reach their full potential.
Our Mission:
The core of our mission revolves around three fundamental actions. First, we build families for children in need, providing them with a loving and supportive home. Second, we empower children and young people to shape their own futures, equipping them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and support to thrive. Lastly, we actively participate in the development of communities, recognizing that sustainable change starts at the grassroots level.
Our Values:
The values we uphold guide our actions and define who we are as an organization:
- Courage: We take bold and decisive action to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children. We face challenges head-on and remain steadfast in our commitment to their well-being.
- Commitment: We honor our promises and stay dedicated to our cause. We work tirelessly to ensure that children and families receive the support they need, consistently and reliably.
- Trust: We believe in the power of trust and foster a culture of mutual respect and belief in one another. Trust forms the foundation of our relationships, collaborations, and partnerships.
- Accountability: We hold ourselves accountable for our actions and decisions. As reliable partners, we take responsibility for the outcomes of our work and strive for transparency and excellence.
At SOS Children's Villages, we are united by our vision, mission, and values, as we work together with donors, partners, communities, and governments to create a world where every child receives the care, protection, and opportunities they deserve.
Modern Facilities:
Library: Our school boasts a well-equipped library, serving as a vital resource for students. It houses a wide range of books, journals, and reference materials to support their academic pursuits. With a serene environment conducive to studying, the library encourages a love for reading and independent learning.
Science Lab: Our school prioritizes practical learning, and our science laboratories are equipped with the necessary tools and equipment. These state-of-the-art labs enable students to conduct experiments and explore scientific concepts, fostering a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Maths Lab: To enhance mathematical proficiency, we have introduced a unique concept in the entire Karnali province—a dedicated Maths Lab. This innovative space provides hands-on learning opportunities, where students can engage with various mathematical concepts through interactive activities and experiments.
Sports Facilities: Recognizing the importance of physical well-being, our school offers multi-purpose playgrounds catering to various sports and recreational activities. These spacious grounds provide students with ample opportunities to participate in sports, promoting teamwork, fitness, and overall holistic development.
Cafeteria: Our model canteen is designed to provide a cozy and comfortable dining experience for up to 150 students. With a focus on nutrition and hygiene, the cafeteria offers a diverse range of healthy meals, ensuring that students receive proper nourishment to support their learning and growth.
Research Opportunities: Our commitment to practical learning extends to the establishment of a botanical garden. This garden serves as a dedicated space for biology practical sessions, enabling students to engage in hands-on research and observation, deepening their understanding of the natural world.
Computer Lab: Equipped with modern technology, our school's ICT lab accommodates up to 40 students. This model computer lab provides students with access to the latest software and hardware, enabling them to develop essential digital literacy skills and explore various facets of information technology.
Children's Park: The newly built school building also features a dedicated Children's Park. This vibrant and engaging space offers recreational facilities, playground equipment, and a safe environment for students to relax, socialize, and enjoy their leisure time.
At our school, we are committed to providing an enriching learning environment that extends beyond the classroom. These facilities are designed to enhance students' educational experiences, promote their overall development, and foster a love for learning in a supportive and engaging atmosphere.
