Solukhumbu-
The Nepal Mountain Academy has successfully completed a 15-days free Women’s Trekking Guide Training in Garma, Solukhumbu. The program ran from Mangsir 2 to 16 with the aim of enhancing women’s capacity, leadership, self-reliance, and participation in the adventure tourism industry. As the first residential training of its kind in Solukhumbu, the program is believed to have created new opportunities for women’s skill development at the local level. Under the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, the Nepal Mountain Academy operates several academic programs in Kathmandu in collaboration with Tribhuvan University, including Bachelor in Mountaineering Studies, Master of Adventure Tourism Studies (MATS), and MSc in Mountain and Mountaineering Science (MSc MMS). Additionally, the Academy regularly offers various skill-based courses such as trekking guide, ski guide, mountain bike guide, climbing support guide, and porter guide trainings, according to Executive Director Anil Kirati.
A total of 28 women from Solukhumbu, Sankhuwasabha, Sindhupalchok, Dhading, Kathmandu, Lamjung, Dolpa, Jhapa, and Gorkha took part in the training.
The opening program was graced by distinguished guests:
- Mr. Chandra Singh Shrestha – Solukhumbu District Coordination Officer
- Mr. Tukti Sherpa – Administrative Head, Solududhkunda Municipality
- Mr. Sonam Sherpa – Ward President, Solududhkunda Ward-7
- Mr. Balakaji Karki – Ward Member, Solududhkunda Ward-7
- Mr. Lakpa Rinji Sherpa – Principal, Number Vocational Training Center
Kirati noted that although the Garma training was primarily designed for women from Solukhumbu, participants from other districts were included due to lower local enrollment. He added that stronger coordination with local governments will be essential in making future programs even more effective.
