'Our Happiness' curriculum brings positive changes in schools

By Our Correspondent,Nawalpur, June 19: After the implementation of ‘Our Happiness’ curriculum at Janata Secondary School of Madhyabindu Municipality, Nawalpur, positive changes have been noticed in most of the students studying from Grade 1 to Grade 8.

The curriculum, which has been introduced since the last academic year, has developed the habit of helping, respecting, addressing someone respectfully, and concentrating and getting along with friends among students.

Seven-year old Kristina Basnet studying in Grade 2 at Janata Secondary School used to watch TV or mobile phone as soon as she gets home without taking off her dress and washing her hands and face.

 If she didn’t get the food she like, she used to fight with her mother, get angry and cry. She even used to fight with her brother and beat him. But now, as soon as she gets home she changes her dress, wash her hands and face and eat whatever snack her mother has prepared. She even asks her mother if there is any chores she can help with. Her mind has become sharp, she has stopped getting angry and works with full concentration.

After the implementation of the 'Our Happiness' curriculum, almost all children here have become more aware of their excessive use of mobile phones and consumption of junk food. This positive change in behaviour has also brought great happiness to the parents.

Chandu Kumal, mother of a Grade 5 student at Little Step Boarding School, shared that her son has been advising her to reduce her mobile phone use. 

She said, “I used to spend all my time on TikTok, but he tells me not to watch too much TikTok and instead watch educational content on knowledge, where I can learn something.  When such a young child starts teaching such important things, it is a greater joy for a mother like me.”

‘Our Happiness’ curriculum is implemented in 64 public and private schools within the municipality which has brought about positive changes not only in students and parents but also in the teachers themselves.

"Earlier, I used to get angry when students made noise, and sometimes even ended up hitting them," said Bishnu Thapa Karki. She added, "Now, I have learned many things, my anger has decreased, and I’ve developed the habit of speaking to children with joy, kindness, and a smile. There is also improved cooperation among teachers.”

The curriculum was officially implemented on August 24 last year by then Minister of Education, Bidya Bhattarai. The municipality believes that this curriculum is a significant step toward developing students’ sensitivity and expanding family relationships.

Mayor Bhimlal Adhikari stated that since the curriculum has been successful, it is necessary to implement it in all municipalities across the district and nationwide.