Improvement in the Image of Public Schools in Nepal Despite Enrollment Pressure
Public schools in Nepal have been facing intense pressure to enroll new students, with pressure coming from high-level officials and people's representatives. Despite this, the number of new students enrolling in some public schools has decreased, and many schools are struggling to cope with the influx of applications. The Auditor General's statistics show that the quality of education in public schools has declined due to political interference. However, there are some schools that are excelling due to the leadership of the principal and the hard work of the teachers.
The pressure to enroll students in public schools is so intense that some schools have had to implement a coded system for entrance exams. Some of the schools that are struggling to cope with the demand include Adarsh Secondary School, Kalika Manavgyan Secondary School, and Gyanodaya Secondary School.
Despite the pressure to enroll new students, the image of public schools in Nepal is improving. Parents and students are still attracted to public schools, indicating a change in attitude towards public schools. Some public schools have come forward as models, and getting admission in those schools is considered a great achievement.
However, most public schools lack adequate physical infrastructure and human resources. To manage this, schools have been collecting additional funds from students in the name of annual fees and managing teachers from private sources.
The Education Advisor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, Reshu Aryal, has said that studies are being conducted on the physical structure and manpower of community schools in the city. The social testing of schools is underway, and a decision will be made on what to do after the study is over.
Overall, public schools in Nepal are facing enrollment pressure, but the image of public schools is improving. Some schools are excelling due to the leadership of the principal and the hard work of the teachers. However, most public schools still lack adequate physical infrastructure and human resources. Studies are underway to improve community schools in Kathmandu, and a decision will be made after the study is over.
Published on 1st May 2023
