Malika Rural Municipality in Gulmi is preparing a five-year periodic education plan to provide accessible and quality education within the village, aiming to reduce rising migration.
A draft plan has been prepared following extensive discussions and a study involving headteachers, teachers, parents, intellectuals, education enthusiasts, and ward-level members of the village education committee.
99 New Programs Proposed After Months of Preparation
Bhumi Gharti Magar, head of the education branch and coordinator of the draft writing committee, shared that a six-member team worked for three months to propose 99 new educational programs in the draft.
The municipality also organized an educational conference to refine the draft and gather expert suggestions. According to education expert Dr. Nagendra Aryal, this initiative is expected to improve educational outcomes significantly.
Program Highlights Include Health, Nutrition, and Sustainability
The 99 new programs include components related to:
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Health and nutrition
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First aid and emergency management
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Practices promoting sustainable development
This initiative also aims to connect students with local culture and traditions. Additional features include the introduction of:
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A public library
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A technology park
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A green school model
Chairperson Gandaki Thapa of Badigad Rural Municipality, Baglung, stated that neighboring local units should emulate Malika’s approach.
Local Government’s Commitment to Reform and Implementation
Focusing on education and health, Malika Rural Municipality has declared 2080 BS the “Year of Educational Reform.” Chairperson Deviram Aryal noted that this declaration brought innovative changes to the education sector.
Former Ward Chairperson Shobha Kharg Giri added that successful implementation of the conference agendas could transform Malika. Education expert Krishna Bhandari emphasized that the five-year plan could achieve remarkable improvements in the education sector.
Plan Finalization and Broader Recognition
Vice-Chairperson Upendra Aryal mentioned that the program would be implemented after reviewing expert suggestions and gaining approval from the executive body.
Chief Administrative Officer Kashiram Panthi remarked that the draft writing committee conducted in-depth studies and tried to develop programs tailored to Malika’s context. Chiribabu Maharjan, Mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City, called the periodic plan exemplary and shared intentions to apply similar programs in his municipality.
Local Curriculum and Technology Integration
Malika Rural Municipality has also introduced a local curriculum for grades one to eight across all schools. A special initiative involving the chairperson and vice-chairperson focuses on directly engaging with students and parents to understand their challenges.
Efforts are ongoing to integrate education with technology. Around 6,000 students are enrolled across 54 schools within Malika Rural Municipality.
Gulmi