Activity Report on Lumbini / Nepal Project

　

　Lumbini/Napal Project is part of the World Terakoya Movement of UNESCO promoted by National Federation of UNESCO Associations in Japan (NFUAJ). Meguro UNESCO Association also supports the project. The following is the latest report by NFUAJ.

　

　Terakoya/Community Learning Centers (CLC) in Patariya and Madhubani were completed in February and March 2004. Inauguration ceremonies were held, with Terakoya supporters from Japan present. The other 4 schools of Terakoya/CLC are under construction now. The Lumbini Project has been going on despite Maoists’ subversive activities.

　

A Plaque on which the names of Terakoya supporters are engraved was hung up in the school. You can see the name of MEGURO UNESCO ASSOCIATION on the 6^th line.

　

Note: In 2001-2002 Meguro UNESCO Association contributed 300,000 yen to the Lumbini Project, and 100,000 yen to a training program for people working on literacy education.

　

　

A Visitor from Serbia and Montenegro

　

　On April 26^th (Mon), Mr. Slobodan Prosic, First Counselor of Embassy of Serbia and Montenegro visited us. He introduced the current situation of his country and talked about the importance of peace. He hoped to be able to have an opportunity to speak to our members.

　A former Yugoslavian ambassador to Japan and his wife once attended our International Friendship Youth Retreat.

　Sad to say, the country's name Yugoslavia disappeared later on. Not only did the country have its name changed but also many buildings designated as world heritage sites have been destroyed. It seems that we seldom realize how wonderful it is that Japan is a peaceful country. I am reminded anew that it is very important to be grateful for living in peace and to cooperate in the effort to make the world peaceful. 　　　　　　　　　　　　 By Fumiko Harada