Khumjung School: A Legendary School of the Everest Region

Khumjung School, located in the village of Khumjung of Solukhumbu, is an important educational institution that serves as a cornerstone of education in the Everest region. It has been a key part of the local community for many years, offering educational opportunities to the children of the Sherpa people as well as other residents of the region.

The school was established by (no surprises!) Sir Edmund Hillary in 1961. It was founded with the aim of improving the quality of education in the Khumbu region, where access to education was limited due to geographic isolation and a lack of resources. There is a famous story about the origin of this school. After summiting Everest and gaining worldwide fame, Hillary wanted to give back to the community that had given him so much. He asked a local guy named Urgen Sherpa what he could do for them. The guy replied:" Burrah Saheb (Old Sir), our children have eyes but they cannot see." Hillary was deeply touched by this statement and he vowed to build a school for the people of this community. He returned to his country New Zealand and started to raise fund to help establish this school. With the support of the Indian Aluminium Company, which donated a prefabricated aluminum structure, and The International Committee of the Red Cross Society, who helped transport these parts by flight, Khumjung School's classroom

The school initially provided only primary education for children from nearby villages. Over the years, the school’s curriculum expanded to include higher levels of education (secondary and higher secondary level), making it the biggest and most reputed school in this region. It has expanded and improved its infrastructure and facilities as well. It now has a hostel, library, and a computer lab. However, like many schools in Nepal’s rural regions, Khumjung School still faces challenges related to limited resources, including a shortage of teaching materials and equipment as well as qualified teachers.

Nevertheless, the school has had a significant impact on the Sherpa community. Many of the graduates from here have gone on to become successful doctors, entrepreneurs, teachers, etc. It is still the main place of education for the people living around this region. Khumjung School has thus helped generations of Sherpa people develop their skills and knowledge to improve the quality of their life and build a better future for themselves as well as for their community.

The school is mainly supported by Hillary's foundation Himalayan Trust. It also receives donations and support from various international organizations, volunteers, and alumni, all of whom recognize the importance of education in remote areas. Khumjung School is seen as an example of how community-driven education can make a difference in areas that are often overlooked by the government.

Today, Khumjung School stands as a symbol of progress and the importance of education, providing hope and opportunities to generations of Sherpa children. The school’s legacy continues to inspire local children to dream big and pursue a better future. It remains a key part of the community, not just as a place of learning, but as a beacon of possibility in one of the remotest corners on earth.