"The audacity to dream": Girls' Education Program graduate joins peacekeeping mission in South Sudan

My name is Shrijana Khadka, and I hail from Dukuchap-3, Lalitpur. I am currently pursuing my second semester of a master's degree and am proudly affiliated with the Nepal Army. My profession involves safeguarding the nation and, when necessary, standing on the front lines to defend it. Serving in the Nepal Army has always been both my dream and my aspiration — a way to contribute meaningfully to my country’s security.

My village, though only 30 kilometers from Kathmandu, faced immense challenges in fulfilling basic needs. Despite its natural beauty, it remained underdeveloped, and life was far from easy. Growing up, I walked 10 kilometers daily to attend school, often hurrying to avoid being late. My parents, concerned about the distance, frequently discouraged me, but I remained steadfast in my determination to achieve something significant for myself and my family.

Room to Read's support marked the beginning of a transformative journey.

While my parents were my first and most important guardians, the mentors from Room to Read became equally vital in shaping my life. I was a strong student academically, but it was through their guidance that I developed an interest in extracurricular activities — particularly sports. My potential in athletics became evident when I participated in a 3-kilometer running competition and secured second place. With encouragement from my teachers and mentors, I continued to compete, later achieving first place in both district and national-level events, including one organized by the National Sports Association. These achievements not only brought me accolades but also earned me a spot on the Kho Kho team of the Tribhuvan Army Club, a milestone that transformed my life.

Shrijana, far right, was the manager of the Tribhuvan Army Club Kho Kho team in the 9^th Annual National Championships. Her team won gold.

The audacity to dream

Coming from a modest family where my father’s income was barely enough to cover basic needs, pursuing a career in the Nepal Army initially seemed unattainable. However, the audacity to dream and the unwavering encouragement of a social mobilizer from Room to Read fueled my belief that women are capable of achieving great things.

I was inspired to seek scholarships and pursue my ambitions relentlessly.




Participating in Room to Read’s life skills training deepened my understanding of resilience and adaptability. The training helped me build confidence and equipped me with the tools to tackle life’s challenges effectively. I observed significant positive changes in my school environment following the programs. Students became more confident, unified and open to communication, fostering a collaborative atmosphere that made problem-solving and school management far more effective.

A peacekeeping mission

Continuing my education and advancing in my career, I have overcome numerous personal and professional challenges, reaching where I am today. For the past eight years, I have proudly served in the Nepal Army, safeguarding my nation. Education has been a cornerstone of my journey, empowering me to balance my studies, sports, and professional responsibilities successfully.

In 2024, I had the honor of joining the Nepal Army’s peacekeeping mission in South Sudan. This mission provides me with an incredible opportunity to maintain stability, ensure security in conflict-affected areas, and support women and children in vulnerable situations. I aim to empower them by imparting tools for resilience, conflict resolution and self-reliance. It is a privilege to contribute to global peace while continuing to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need. 

Room to Read's content and curriculum supports all adolescents, particularly girls, in developing life skills that promote gender equality, ensuring they can graduate with the tools to lead, make informed decisions and pursue lifelong learning.  

Help us benefit more adolescent girls with life skills that promote gender equality