Several children at Bhimeshwor School for Deaf Children in Charikot, Dolakha, were diagnosed with severe ailments when Dr Binod Dangal and his team from Gaurishankhar General Hospital conducted a free health check-up.  

One of the children, a six-year-old boy, had a hole in his heart and another, a girl, had a tumour in her stomach. There were many other children who needed surgeries and long-term treatment, said Dr Dangal, who has pledged to offer free treatment to the children.

The doctor also raised his concerns about the  lack of resources at the school.

He said as the school lacks hostel, the children, especially the girls, do not feel safe.

Saruna Shrestha, who works for the welfare of deaf children, said it was particularly difficult for the girl students during their  periods.

Ramesh Lama, chairman of the School Management Committee, admitted that the school was faced many problems and they were doing everything  to address them.

Besides separate buildings for school and hostel, the school is also in need of sign language tutors.

The school had received permit to teach children with hearing impairment six years ago.