National Curriculum Development and Evaluation Council Approves Bilingual Teaching of Social Studies in Nepali and English
The National Curriculum Development and Evaluation Council has taken a significant step by allowing the teaching of school level social studies in both Nepali and English mediums. This decision aims to address the challenges faced by foreign students studying social studies in Nepal.
Bilingual Approach for Enhanced Learning
Chairman of the National Examination Board (NEB), Dr. Mahashram Sharma, stated that social studies will be taught and examined in Nepali language, while for foreign students, the medium of instruction and examination will be English. This approach ensures that all students, regardless of their linguistic background, can effectively comprehend and excel in social studies.
Resolving Challenges for Foreign Students
Recognizing the difficulties faced by foreign students, President Sharma highlighted that the previous requirement of studying and taking exams in Nepali language posed challenges for students from foreign diplomatic missions studying in Nepal. To address this issue, the council introduced provisions for teaching and examination in both Nepali and English, ensuring that foreign students have access to quality education in social studies.
Inclusive Education for Foreign Diplomatic Mission Schools
This decision allows schools attended by foreign students from foreign diplomatic missions to teach social subjects in English. The council acknowledges that foreign students might face difficulties in comprehending the subject matter in Nepali, and this decision aims to address those concerns. By offering bilingual instruction, the council aims to make social studies more accessible and comprehensible for foreign students.
Implementation for Upcoming SEE Students
The newly approved bilingual teaching approach will be applicable to students appearing for the Secondary Education Examination (SEE) from the next academic year. This decision takes into account the weak Nepali language skills of Nepali students living abroad and foreign students residing in Nepal. By providing education in both English and Nepali, the council aims to ensure that students from these two categories receive a comprehensive and balanced education.
Alignment with Private Schools
In the past two years, private schools have been teaching social subjects in English. The recent decision by the council aligns the teaching medium of public and private schools, promoting consistency and coherence in the education system. This harmonization will benefit students by providing them with a standardized learning experience.
Examination Paper in Both Languages
In addition to the bilingual teaching approach, the examination papers for social studies will now be available in both English and Nepali languages. This step aims to facilitate students' understanding and expression in their preferred language, ensuring fairness and inclusivity in the assessment process.
By adopting this bilingual approach, the National Curriculum Development and Evaluation Council seeks to enhance the quality of social studies education, cater to the diverse needs of students, and promote a more inclusive and equitable learning environment in Nepal.
Published on 6th May 2023
