We first discovered Leptung during the devastating 2015 earthquake. The small village, located in the Dolakha district, approximately 7 to 9 hours’ drive from Kathmandu depending on road conditions, had suffered severe destruction. During several relief visits, we provided emergency support to more than 200 families affected by the disaster.

When we asked one of the local teachers about their plans for continuing the children’s education after the school had been completely destroyed, the answer was heartbreaking: “We will wait until the government arrives.” With more than 5,600 schools demolished across Nepal, we feared that an entire generation of children could lose access to education.

Determined to act quickly, Norbu and I decided to return with enough metal sheets to build nine temporary classrooms for 360 students. Along with construction materials, we brought food supplies sufficient for one and a half months. Our idea was simple but meaningful: appoint a local cook to prepare daily meals so children could return to school, while parents focused on rebuilding their homes.

One week later, we returned with 1.2 tons of metal sheets, which Norbu had managed to secure after waiting more than seven hours in line. At that time, there was no road access to the village. What followed was a moving human chain — villagers of all ages working together to carry the materials up to Leptung. The spirit of unity and cooperation was truly heartwarming.

When we came back the following week and saw the nine classrooms completed and children back at their desks, it was an unforgettable and deeply gratifying moment.

By the summer of 2016, we began planning something more permanent: rebuilding the school with a concrete structure. Although the government had not yet inspected the site, we believed the children deserved a safe and durable learning environment. Thanks to the generous support of Grégoire Comina and Pierre Morand, owners of COMINA Architecture and Morand Constructions, this vision became achievable.

In autumn 2017, a dedicated Swiss team — including Grégoire, Pierre, Gilbert, and several entrepreneur friends — traveled to Nepal to help construct the new building. We shipped 30 tons of materials from Switzerland to Nepal, a logistical challenge in itself. On the ground, our Swiss volunteers were supported by our Nepali WILD YAK Team and members of the Leptung community.

Each day presented new challenges: arranging electricity supply, sourcing iron bars in remote areas, and transporting materials by tractor up steep village paths. Yet, through teamwork, perseverance, and shared purpose, remarkable progress was made.

After just ten days of intensive work, the new school building proudly stood tall — a symbol of resilience, solidarity, and hope for the children of Leptung.