Key Amendments Anticipated for the School Education Bill in Nepal

Kathmandu, October 4, 2023

The school education bill under scrutiny by the Nepal parliament is set for crucial discussions and potential amendments. The impending deliberations are set to be influenced by consultations with key stakeholders and experts in the field.

Highlights:

• The Stand of House Committee: Bhanubhakta Joshi, chairman of the education, health and information technology committee of the House of Representatives, highlighted the role of the committee in shaping the bill. The committee will make necessary amendments, but only after gathering insights from experts and stakeholders.

• Inadequate Preparation: On the third anniversary of the Education Journalist' Group on October 2, 2023, Joshi expressed concern over the government's lack of thoroughness in framing the bill. He called for incorporating issues which previously led to street protests.

• Quality Education on Forefront: A major focus of the discussions will be on enhancing the quality of education and public education. Joshi emphasized that expertise from stakeholders is paramount in law and policy formulation.

• Views from the Education Sector:

  • Dr. Mahashram Sharma, Chairman of the National Examination Board, opined on global standards and experiences for structuring examination methodology.
  • Ramesh Silwal of the Higher Institutions and Secondary Schools' Association Nepal (HISSAN) raised questions on the clarity of the bill, especially regarding teachers, staff, and the future of education in Nepal.
  • Kamala Tuladhar, President of the Nepal Teachers' Association, appealed for an agreement with the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology from September 22, 2023, to be translated into the bill.
  • Dr. Basudev Kafle and Dr. Balchandra Luintel, noted educationists, emphasized the importance of the bill aligning with the broader interests of education in Nepal and meeting the constitution's vision of socialism-oriented education.

• Role of Journalism: Prakash Silwal, head of the Education Journalist Society, urged the media to prioritize research, study, and investigative journalism to facilitate educational policy reforms. The event also witnessed the felicitation of dedicated education workers and the awarding of standout education journalists.

The proposed amendments to the bill are expected to reshape the future of Nepal's education sector, and all eyes are now on the upcoming meeting of the House of Representatives.