Kathmandu— The Nepali government has announced an increase in remuneration for teachers and school staff operating within the federal grant system. The decision was made during a Cabinet meeting held today at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, providing a Rs. 5,000 monthly salary increase to Early Childhood Development Facilitators (ECDs), school employees, and school assistants. This move aims to support those working in crucial educational roles across the country.

Salary Increase Details

Government Spokesperson and Minister for Education and Sports, Sasmit Pokharel, confirmed the salary increase will be applied to ECDs, school employees, and school assistants who are employed under federal grant programs. The additional Rs. 5,000 per month is intended to recognize their contributions and improve working conditions within Nepal’s education sector.

No details were provided regarding the total number of educators and staff affected by this decision or the overall financial impact on the national budget.

International Cooperation & Agreements

In addition to domestic policy changes, the Cabinet also approved several international initiatives. A grant assistance of approximately Rs. 2.73 billion from the Government of Japan will be used for improvements to air traffic control at Tribhuvan International Airport.

The government has given approval for a Nepali delegation, led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, to attend the 81st General Assembly of the United Nations in New York, United States. Furthermore, bilateral air service agreements between Nepal and Saudi Arabia were also approved.

Disaster Preparedness & Administrative Appointments

The Council of Ministers has sanctioned the establishment of a sub-center for the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center within Nepal, signaling an increased focus on regional disaster risk reduction efforts.

A decision was also made to promote Joint Secretary Kamal Prasad Bhattarai to Gazetted Special Category and appoint him as Chief Secretary of the Office of the Chief Minister and Council of Ministers in Bagmati Province.

New Committee Formation

The meeting approved the Software Development and Operations Committee (Formation) Order, 2083 BS, indicating a move towards streamlining software development processes within the government. This suggests an effort to modernize administrative functions through technological advancements.

These decisions reflect the government’s ongoing efforts to address both domestic needs in education and disaster preparedness, as well as strengthen international partnerships.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.