Challenges in Technical and Vocational Education in Nepal
In a recent development on December 29, 2023, a significant issue has emerged in Nepal's education sector, particularly affecting the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT). Here's a detailed look at the situation:
Closure of Nursing Programs:
67 educational institutions affiliated with the CTEVT have reached a critical juncture. These institutions, which have been offering nursing programs at the proficiency certificate level since 2000, are facing hurdles in continuing their educational services. The administrators reported that new admissions have been halted since 2021, largely due to the lack of support from the Medical Education Commission.
Government's Response and Efforts:
Education, Science, and Technology Minister Ashok Kumar Rai acknowledged the complexity of the issue. He expressed that addressing the demands of technical school operators is challenging and requires collective efforts. Minister Rai plans to discuss the matter with the Prime Minister, Health Minister, and other relevant authorities to find a viable solution.
Impact on Staff and Students:
The decision to suspend new admissions has had a ripple effect. Notably, the final examinations for students enrolled in 2020 were completed on December 12, 2023. However, the cessation of new admissions led to the closure of institutions due to a lack of students, rendering the educational infrastructure redundant. This situation has resulted in significant job losses, with around 1,675 instructors and administrative staff being forced into unpaid leave.
Financial and Educational Implications:
According to Nirmal Sapkota, General Secretary of the Forum for Health and Technical Science, the closure of the nursing program has resulted in a substantial financial loss for the institutions. Additionally, the educational aspirations of over 10,000 prospective nursing students have been disrupted, compelling them to either study abroad or switch to different disciplines.
Legal Framework and Expectations:
The CTEVT Act, 1992 AD, places the responsibility for the guardianship of technical and vocational education under the Minister of Education, Science and Technology. Stakeholders are now looking towards the minister for proactive measures. These include reopening admissions in closed institutions, ensuring job security for teachers and staff, and safeguarding the financial investments made by these institutions.
Collective Appeal for Resolution:
A memorandum has been submitted to various authorities, including the Ministry of Health and Population and the Parliament's Education, Health, and Information Technology Committee. The goal is to urge these bodies to take decisive action in resolving the issues plaguing the technical education sector.
This situation in Nepal underscores the challenges in managing technical and vocational education, especially when regulatory changes and administrative decisions can have far-reaching consequences on students, educators, and the broader educational landscape.
CTEVT
