Kathmandu— Nepal's Minister for Education and Sports, Sasmit Pokharel, announced a nationwide initiative focused on gathering input from stakeholders across the country to inform lasting policy solutions for the nation’s education sector. Since assuming office, Pokharel has adopted a ‘listening and learning’ approach to understand challenges within the system, with initial efforts in his first 100 days concentrated on establishing rules and guidelines for reform and good governance. The ministry is now prioritizing the new Education Act, Technical Education Act, and contemporary reforms in higher education through direct engagement with local communities.

Nationwide Dialogue Program Launched

A team led by the Ministry’s chief advisor and the head of the School Education Division is currently traveling to all seven provinces of Nepal as part of the ‘Education Dialogue’ program. This initiative aims to collect issues, suggestions, and expectations from a broad range of stakeholders including local authorities, teachers, education staff, parents, schools, and students. The ministry has specifically prioritized concerns related to early childhood development (ECD) facilitators and school management within these discussions.

The dialogue is designed to directly address the needs and challenges faced by those involved in the education system at the local level. Stakeholders unable to attend the sessions physically can submit their input through an online ‘Education Dialogue: Suggestions, Problems, and Expectations Collection Form,’ which will be incorporated into the policy formulation process.

Key Legislative Priorities

The ministry is currently focused on finalizing several key pieces of legislation, including the new Education Act and the Technical Education Act. An expert team tasked with revising the national curriculum framework has also reached the final stages of its work. Minister Pokharel expressed his commitment to swiftly finalize the Education Bill by considering all concerns, consulting experts, and basing decisions on factual evidence.

He emphasized that the suggestions received regarding the role of local bodies, challenges in school management, and broader policy issues will serve as a foundation for future reforms within the education sector. The ministry has stated its commitment to finding sustainable solutions to Nepal’s educational problems.

Accessibility and Participation

To ensure broad participation, the Department of Education is also preparing to collect suggestions on the education bill directly from local governments in all seven provinces. This multi-faceted approach aims to create a comprehensive understanding of the issues facing the education sector across Nepal.

The ministry has provided contact information – 9851014006 – for those wishing to participate in the ‘Education Dialogue’ program, further demonstrating its commitment to open communication and collaboration.

The Ministry of Education anticipates that these ongoing dialogues and legislative efforts will lead to significant improvements in Nepal's education system. The collected feedback is expected to play a crucial role in shaping future policies and ensuring equitable access to quality education for all.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.