The residential Winter Alternative Learning Programme (Khangrtsa Yontan), organized by rZamba Trust, concluded on December 18 in Kargil. The programme aimed to prepare facilitators from diverse communities across the district to implement alternative, community-rooted educational practices during the winter months.

A flagship initiative of rZamba Trust, Khangrtsa Yontan ensures continuity of learning during winter through project-based, culturally responsive, and community-driven educational approaches.

The closing ceremony was graced by Imteeaz Kacho, JKAS, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Kargil, as Chief Guest, and Sonam Wangchuk, Chief Education Officer (CEO), School Education Department, Kargil, as Guest of Honour.

Nahida Wahid, Programme Coordinator, introduced the Winter Alternative Learning Programme and highlighted its focus on meaningful, experiential, and culturally relevant learning during winter.

Participating facilitators shared their reflections and learnings, expressing confidence in implementing alternative teaching methods in their respective learning spaces. They spoke about exposure to Project-Based Learning (PBL), Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), wildlife and environmental education, hands-on science learning through kits, and community-based experiential activities.

Both dignitaries appreciated the design, content, and overall quality of the residential induction programme. They lauded the preparedness, clarity, and commitment of the facilitators and congratulated rZamba Trust for its efforts in holistic child development beyond conventional classroom learning.

ADC Imteeaz Kacho remarked that he always felt at home at rZamba Trust events due to the enriching experiences offered. He commended the trust for providing unique teaching and learning methods that complement the initiatives of the School Education Department, and wished facilitators the best for their winter educational endeavours.

The guests also acknowledged the contributions of the core leadership team of rZamba Trust, including Saldon Shifa, Founder & CEO; Marziya Bano, Co-founder; Ghulam Murtaza, Programme Lead; Hakima Banoo, Programme Lead; Rifat Amin, SEL Lead; and Nahida Wahid, Programme Coordinator.

The event was formally concluded by Saldon Shifa, who commended facilitators for their commitment and participation. She emphasized the importance of staying rooted in community realities, practising reflective teaching, and ensuring that winter learning spaces remain joyful, inclusive, and meaningful for children.

The ceremony concluded with a collective commitment from facilitators and the core team to implement the Winter Alternative Learning Programme with integrity, creativity, and a strong focus on holistic child well-being.