Maintaining Education in Kathmandu Metropolitan City: No School Closures Allowed
In a recent directive, the Kathmandu Metropolitan City has mandated that all schools within the city limits must remain open. This decisive action ensures that no organization can force schools to close under any pretext, demonstrating a firm commitment to preserving the continuity of education in the city.
Mayor Balendra Sah's Stance
Balendra Sah, mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, made it clear that if any organization attempts to force school closures, the Nepal Police will intervene, maintaining order and possibly initiating criminal proceedings. This strong stand aligns with the School Peace Zone National Framework and Implementation Guideline 2068, which prohibits disruptive activities in schools.
The Disruption of Public Schools
The Nepal School Staff Council had previously announced an emergency closure of public schools nationwide. This move was in response to the federal government's failure to meet their demands. However, Mayor Sah has rebutted this decision on his Facebook post dated June 17, 2023, emphasizing that public schools should continue their operations on June 18, 2023.
Upholding the Peace Zone Concept
Reminding all that according to a 2011 decision by the Government of Nepal, schools are deemed a peace zone. Any actions contradicting this concept within the metropolis are banned. This decision highlights the city's commitment to fostering a peaceful and conducive learning environment for the children.
Implications for Staff and Management
Mayor Sah has further clarified that community schools, their staff, and school management committees must conduct regular classes. Any obstruction in the normal functioning of the schools will lead to legal action. Additionally, if a teacher or an employee is absent, they risk losing their position as per section 41(a) of the Kathmandu Metropolitan City Education Act. School management committees that fail to ensure regular classes or contribute to disruption may be dissolved under section 28 of the Municipal Education Act.
Metropolitan Education Department's Position
Sitaram Koirala, head of the Metropolitan Education Department, reinforced this sentiment. The Kathmandu Metropolitan Municipality won't tolerate any form of political activity or strikes within schools. From Sunday onwards, mechanisms and resources will be put in place to deter and manage such activities.
Nepal School Staff Council's Resistance
Despite these stringent rules, the Nepal School Staff Council continues to express their discontentment. They argue that their demand for professional stability and various service facilities have been recognized in policy but overlooked in the budget issued on May 29, 2023. The council has urged their working committees nationwide to intensify their protests. However, the stance taken by the Kathmandu Metropolitan City continues to prioritize student education and institutional stability over these protests.
Kathmandu