Improving the Quality of Education: The Need for Compulsory Education in Public Schools
In the pursuit of enhancing the quality of education, there is a growing emphasis on the enrollment of high-ranking individuals and national service employees' children in public schools. This measure is seen as a means to address the existing challenges in education and counter the increasing commercialization of the educational sector.
Ishwari Prasad Pokharel, a former deputy secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, as well as an esteemed educational researcher, highlights the importance of enrolling children of employees in public schools. He advocates for a significant increase in investment in education to strengthen the overall educational landscape.
Based on various studies conducted during his tenure at the policy and planning branch of the ministry, Pokhrel underscores the need for a concrete state initiative to integrate marginalized groups into mainstream education. This initiative would ensure that those who have been left behind in terms of educational opportunities are given the chance to participate fully.
To further enhance the educational system, Pokharel calls for the Council of Technical and Vocational Education to align its examinations with the National Examination Board. He argues that the current misalignment between curriculum development, class instruction, and examination processes hinders the effectiveness of technical and vocational education.
Regrettably, Pokharel expresses his dissatisfaction with the lack of attention given by higher authorities to the results of his studies. This highlights the importance of effective communication and implementation of research findings to bring about positive changes in the education sector.
Addressing the concerns of teachers and school staff, Bishnu Prasad Bhandari, President of the Nepal National Teachers' Association, criticizes the government's proposed budget for failing to address these crucial issues. He perceives this as a betrayal of the ongoing reforms in public schools, which are vital for improving overall educational standards.
Prakash Silwal, President of the Education Journalists Association, emphasizes the need for the government to actively implement the study's findings and conclusions to foster transformative changes in the education sector. He believes that these recommendations should be embraced and executed at all levels of governance.
Overall, the mandatory enrollment of high-ranking individuals and national service employees' children in public schools can significantly contribute to enhancing the quality of education. Adequate investment, inclusivity, alignment of examination processes, and effective implementation of research findings are essential for achieving tangible improvements in the education sector. By addressing the concerns of teachers and staff, and prioritizing reforms, the government can create a conducive environment for comprehensive educational development.
Published on 4th June 2023
