Our Story

Our Journey Through the Years

VHS Bhaktapur was founded with a simple yet powerful vision: to provide accessible, high-quality German language education in Nepal and open international pathways for young people.

Our journey began in 2011 as a small, one-room initiative with an initial investment of just 170 euros. At that time, many motivated Nepali students were unable to secure placements through Goethe-Zentrum. VHS Bhaktapur emerged to bridge this gap—offering structured German language courses, academic guidance, and a supportive learning environment.

Within a short period, our commitment to quality teaching, learner-centered methods, and professional standardsearned us recognition as a trusted German language institute in the Kathmandu Valley.

2013 | Growth and Vision Expansion

With a growing number of students and staff, VHS Bhaktapur moved to a new and modern building in Bhaktapur. This year marked a strategic turning point as the institution revised its vision and mission.

In addition to German language education, VHS expanded into community-based youth programs, including:

• Teacher training in German language teaching
• Community talk programs
• Art and cultural classes
• Youth-focused educational initiatives

Through cooperation with GIZ, VHS Bhaktapur began hosting weltwärts volunteers, fostering strong intercultural collaboration and enriching both the local team and international participants.

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2014 | Creating New Opportunities

Responding to student needs, VHS Bhaktapur introduced alternative language examination preparation options and launched Nepal’s early career counseling initiatives, supporting students in making informed academic and professional decisions.

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2015 | Recognition and Social Responsibility

Due to rising demand, VHS Bhaktapur opened its second operational center in Kathmandu. This year was marked by major milestones:

• Strengthened cooperation with the German Embassy, including an official ambassadorial visit
• Official authorization to conduct ÖSD German language examinations
• Visits from DVV International representatives
• Selection for Erasmus+ projects

Following the devastating earthquake in Nepal, VHS Bhaktapur demonstrated strong social commitment by coordinating a relief campaign involving over 400 volunteers and launching the reconstruction project “NepalHilfe der VHS Bhaktapur.”

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2016 | Academic Advancement

VHS Bhaktapur became the first institution in Nepal to offer German language courses at the B2 level. The institute also conducted DaF (German as a Foreign Language) teacher training programs in cooperation with VHS and Goethe experts and organized multiple international examinations.

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2017 | International Exposure

VHS organized one-month international exposure programs for its teachers at universities, VHS centers, and youth organizations in Austria and Germany. In the same year, Nepali youth were sent abroad for job shadowing in Italy and Spain and training programs in North Macedonia.

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2018 | Strengthening the Team

While continuing German language education, VHS introduced official translation services at the request of the German Embassy. The year focused strongly on empowering the Nepali team through soft skills and didactics training, supported by volunteers from Germany, Austria, and other European countries.

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2019 | Youth Mobility and Capacity Building

VHS conducted extensive trainings, seminars, and workshops for youth workers traveling to North Macedonia, Italy, Greece, and Belgium. Upon their return, participants led local training programs in Nepal. By the end of the year, the VHS team had grown to 32 full-time staff members.

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2020–2021 | Resilience During the Pandemic

In early 2020, VHS hosted international Erasmus+ trainings with participants from 12 organizations across 11 countries. However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced a prolonged shutdown.

Despite severe financial challenges, VHS adapted by:

• Moving German language classes online via Moodle
• Downsizing operations
• Relocating all activities to VHS Kathmandu

By the end of 2021, the team was reduced from 32 to 10 dedicated members, yet the quality of education remained uncompromised.

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2022 | Recovery and Rebuilding

With limited capacity, VHS gradually regained its market position. ÖSD examinations resumed in Kathmandu, and all previously suspended Erasmus+ projects were successfully completed. Team members participated in international trainings in Belgium, Italy, Uganda, Vietnam, and North Macedonia.

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2023 | A Strong Comeback

In June 2023, VHS Bhaktapur reopened in Jagati, and later returned to its original Adarsha, Bhaktapur building under a new contract. Examinations resumed, volunteers returned, and VHS conducted exams for over 1,200 examinees within one year—earning recognition as the largest German language school in Nepal.

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2024 | Expansion and Stability

VHS successfully cleared all COVID-era loans and became one of the most recognized German language education brands in Nepal. The institution restructured its departments, expanded evening and youth pilot programs, and operated 15 hours a day with a team of 45 members. Plans were finalized to expand beyond the Kathmandu Valley.

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2025 | A New Chapter

In January 2025, VHS proudly opened VHS Pokhara, its first center outside the Kathmandu Valley. Today, VHS serves over 800 students daily across its centers.

Looking ahead, VHS aims to revive and expand:

• Workshops and seminars
• National and international exchange programs
• Youth-focused projects and partnerships

By diversifying beyond language education, VHS continues its mission to grow as a dynamic youth hub and international education platform.

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Our Vision Forward

From a single room to a nationwide presence, VHS Bhaktapur’s journey reflects resilience, innovation, and trust. We remain committed to empowering young people, fostering intercultural dialogue, and shaping meaningful educational futures.