Kathmandu— Nepal's Minister for Education and Sports, Sasmit Pokharel, has stressed the importance of collaboration among all three levels of government – federal, provincial, and local – to effectively develop the nation’s education sector. The call came during a three-day provincial orientation program on education policies, programs, budgets, and implementation processes held in Dhangadhi, Kailali, aimed at fostering better coordination and understanding across governance tiers. Minister Pokharel emphasized that improvements in education are contingent upon unified efforts and adherence to existing regulations and laws. The orientation seeks to establish a common ground for implementing educational initiatives and addressing challenges through dialogue with stakeholders.

Focus on Coordination and Legal Framework

Minister Pokharel stated that effective work in the education sector requires collaboration with both provincial and local governments, urging all parties to follow the 10th amendment of the Education Regulations and other relevant acts. He believes dialogue is key to resolving issues within the education system and emphasized the need for extensive consultation with stakeholders when creating new education laws, policies, and regulations.

Ana Prasad Neupane, Director of the Department of Education, explained that the orientation program was designed to build a shared understanding between provincial authorities, local levels, and the Education Development and Coordination Unit (EDCU) regarding the implementation of various educational policies, laws, guidelines, standards, and annual programs.

Fiscal Year Planning and Implementation

The orientation included discussions on education programs for the fiscal year 2083/84 from the province, EDCU, and local levels. Jeevan Neupane, Head of the Coordination Unit Kailali, noted that participants would receive information about education policy, programs, budgets, indicators, and budget releases related to the 'Sector Wide Approach'.

The program also featured training on developing annual strategic implementation plans and work plans based on local education plans, with a focus on linking approved plans to annual budgets. Participants were provided guidance on utilizing school education sector information management systems and analyzing data obtained from them.

Standards and Stakeholder Participation

Orientation sessions covered various standards and policies within the education sector, aiming to ensure consistent application across all levels of government. The program brought together heads and representatives from education-related bodies in all nine districts of Sudurpaschim Province, facilitating a broad exchange of ideas and perspectives.

The orientation program concluded with expectations that local levels will be better equipped to align their approved education plans with annual programs and budgets, ultimately contributing to improved educational outcomes across the province.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.