Kathmandu– Thousands of teachers from various parts of Nepal took to the streets of Kathmandu on Saturday, demanding the immediate enactment of the School Education Act. The protest, organized by the Nepal Teachers’ Federation, saw demonstrators marching from Maitighar to New Baneshwar, urging the government to pass the long-awaited legislation aimed at reforming the education sector.
Massive Protest in the Capital
Carrying placards and chanting slogans, teachers voiced their concerns about the government’s delay in passing the School Education Act. The protest highlighted ongoing issues in Nepal’s education sector, including job security, salary structures, and policies affecting both public and private schools.
Teachers emphasized that the lack of a proper legal framework is severely affecting Nepal’s education system. Many expressed frustration over unfulfilled promises by successive governments regarding educational reforms.
Why the School Education Act Matters
The proposed School Education Act aims to address critical challenges such as the standardization of teaching policies, fair salary structures, and the rights of educators. According to the Nepal Teachers’ Federation, the act would also improve the overall quality of education by ensuring well-defined policies for recruitment, training, and working conditions of teachers across Nepal.
“The government has repeatedly assured us that the School Education Act will be passed soon, but we have yet to see any real progress,” said Krishna Prasad Sharma, a senior member of the Nepal Teachers’ Federation. “Without this act, teachers continue to face uncertainty in their careers, and students are deprived of a well-regulated education system.”
Government’s Response
In response to the protest, government officials acknowledged the concerns raised by the teachers. Education Minister Devendra Poudel stated that the government is in the process of finalizing the act and urged teachers to remain patient. However, many protesters expressed skepticism, citing previous delays and broken commitments.
A high-level government meeting is expected to take place next week to discuss the act further. Some officials have suggested that the final draft could be tabled in Parliament soon, but no specific timeline has been provided.
Growing Frustration Among Educators
Many teachers argue that despite Nepal’s constitutional commitment to quality education, the sector remains neglected. The absence of a structured education policy has led to disparities in teacher salaries and working conditions, especially between government and private schools.
“The teaching profession in Nepal is becoming increasingly unstable. If the government does not address our concerns now, the future of education in Nepal will remain uncertain,” said Sita Bhandari, a protester and primary school teacher from Pokhara.
The Nepal Teachers’ Federation has warned of continued protests if the government fails to take immediate action. Representatives have hinted at a possible nationwide strike, which could disrupt the education system across the country.
The protest in Kathmandu is one of the largest teacher-led demonstrations in recent years, signaling growing discontent among educators. With pressure mounting, the government faces a crucial decision in addressing teachers’ demands and ensuring long-overdue reforms in Nepal’s education system.
For more updates on this developing story, visit Nepal Monitor.
