Sherpa school appeal celebrates life's work

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the ascent of Everest and in recognition of the life's work of Sir Edmund Hillary in bringing education to the Sherpas, the Weekend Herald is launching a campaign to raise money for one of the schools he helped to build in Nepal.

Chaurikharka school, nestled at the foot of the Himalayas, has big dreams and few resources. Its 288 pupils range in age from 5 to 18, and some walk two hours to learn in its small, crowded stone buildings.

Sir Edmund told the Weekend Herald that he had always held great sympathy for the conditions under which the Sherpas lived, and in the years after his climb had asked them how he could best help.

"They all agreed that what they really wanted was the opportunity for their children to get an education."

In response, Sir Edmund has helped to build many schools.

Chaurikharka hopes to improve the opportunities for its pupils by building a computer room and buying computers. It also needs a new classroom.

* Donations can be sent to: The Nepalese School Fund Appeal, Editorial Department, New Zealand Herald, PO Box 706, Auckland.