Defying boundaries of all kinds, University of Hyderabad is in solidarity with quake-hit Nepal. UoH for Nepal, a student collective initiated by students is backed by the faculty and other well wishers. This earth quake relief programme is a small step to bring back life in the devastated mountain nation.
This noble cause was initiated when a research scholar from the Department of Anthropology from UoH (who wants to remain anonymous) decided to lend a helping hand. This research scholar spent his time with the villagers of Thecho in Lalitpur district, Nepal, that was one of the highly affected places.
As he spent considerable time with the villagers as part of his field work, he has been able to establish a link between the villagers and the University. He received required support from the UoH family, making UoH for Nepal a reality.
What makes UoH for Nepal different from other initiatives is their method of implementing the programme where beneficiaries were tapped after conducting a need-based assessment with the help of grass root level organisations.
The list of beneficiaries depending on their needs is ready and they will be provided accordingly – in cash or supplies.
“Unlike many other initiatives we are not planning to work with any NGO because it can be problematic. We are planning to work with certain youth clubs with whom I am already in touch with for bringing back Nepal”, said initiator of UoH for Nepal.
‘UoH for Nepal ( Earthquake Relief Fund Campaign)’ a Facebook group, was the first step. Currently the group strength is 616 members. Boxes have been installed around the university to collect funds. Transparency regarding the collected money is being ensured by constant updates on the Facebook group.
Apart from this, a musical night featuring Bhojpuri and folk songs was conducted May 5.
The initiative also spread to Shilparamam and Mehdipatnam where they collected money.
Three volunteers Sipoy Sarveswar, a research scholar along with Shyam Bharadwaj, student and Suresh Garimella, alumnus and research scholar in Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi are planning to go Nepal on May 17.
The collective is also planning to conduct a flash mob at Indira Nagar, Gachibowli. More contributions are welcome as life is still at stake in the valleys of Nepal.
Details: Sipoy Sarveswar
9440969674 or www.facebook.com/groups/930311583687811/