#education #Nepal #private schools
The government of Nepal had proposed a bill in the House of Representatives on the 27th of Bhadra, 2080, regarding the registration of the School Education Act. Initially, the bill had outlined the establishment and operation of private schools under the educational trust system. However, after nearly two years, the Education and Governance Committee of the House reached a consensus to amend this provision.
The amendment now allows for the operation of private schools under the educational service, public welfare, and non-profitable framework. The mandatory nature of the trust system has been made voluntary under the current provisions.
During discussions in the Education Committee, members of parliament raised concerns about not allowing the establishment and operation of private schools and insisted on making it non-profitable. Despite some strong objections, they were eventually compelled to support the proposal brought by the government, which deviated from their original proposal.
Ramesh Khatri, the representative of Kansai Nepal News, expressed his opinion on the matter. He stated, “The continuous changes in the School Education Bill reflect a lack of consistency in the government’s approach. While various political parties and leaders have raised different points, the bill has seen modifications without incorporating any new or suggested provisions.”
The bill, registered in Parliament for the fourth time, initially stipulated that private schools would be established and operated under the educational trust system. However, the latest version of the bill now mentions that private schools can operate as educational services, for public welfare, and non-profitably.
Despite heated discussions on Thursday and Friday in the committee, no significant changes were made. Vidyanath Koirla, an education expert, commented, “What leaders say doesn’t necessarily translate into action.” The issue seems to have reached a stalemate despite attempts to address concerns.
Moreover, another contentious subject arose during discussions – primary education. The government’s stance on primary education underwent slight changes, with consensus reached on extending the duration to two years. However, disagreements persist on whether primary education should be included under school education.
Regarding primary education, Minakshi Dahal, an education expert, pointed out that the bill fails to address crucial issues related to teachers and their role in improving school education. She emphasized the importance of recognizing teachers’ service facilities and political aspects. However, the bill does not seem to address these concerns adequately.
The issue of primary education is set to be further deliberated in the upcoming committee meeting on Saturday. The government’s reluctance to allocate sufficient funds for primary education has raised questions. Dahal criticized the leaders, stating that while they are willing to fund their own expenses, they are hesitant to invest in children’s education.
Suresh Raj Sharma, former Vice-Chancellor of Kathmandu University, believes that two years are sufficient for primary education, but he emphasized that the Secondary Education Examination (SEE) should not be entrusted to local levels or provinces as it might compromise standards.
In a discussion with Nepal Byuj, Koirla expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s lack of clarity on primary education. She stressed the need for a clear definition of primary education and highlighted the importance of integrating primary education into the school system.
In conclusion, while the debates continue, it remains to be seen how the government will navigate the complexities surrounding private schools and primary education in Nepal.
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Author: MAYA | HARUTO
Posted at: June 28, 2025 12:00 am
