From Classroom to Street: Why Nepal's Education Bill Has Private Schools Protesting | RB Katuwal | Sarthak Shikshya

In this timely episode of Sarthak Sikshya, presenter Narayan Acharya sits down with RB Katuwal, the General Secretary of PABSON, to discuss the widespread turmoil currently gripping Nepal’s education sector. Mr. Katuwal explains why the proposed Education Bill has become a major point of contention, compelling private education organizations, such as PABSON, N-PABSAN, and HISSAN, to launch joint street protests. He sheds light on the years of uncertainty and indecision surrounding the bill, which has now brought educators out of the classroom and onto the streets.

Delving into the core issues, Mr. Katuwal outlines the key provisions in the Education Bill that private institutions find unacceptable. He elaborates on the proposal to gradually convert privately-run schools into non-profit trusts, a move he argues creates immense uncertainty and discourages future investment in the sector. Furthermore, he criticizes the impractical changes to scholarship policies and the government's failure to honor previously negotiated agreements, making private educators feel unheard and targeted despite their contributions to national education.

Mr. Katuwal warns that if the bill is passed in its current form, it could lead to a decline in educational quality and force parents to send their children abroad for better schooling. While expressing deep concerns, he also highlights that the path to a solution lies in meaningful dialogue and mutual respect between the government and private stakeholders. He issues a strong call for unity among all private school operators, emphasizing that their collective voice is crucial at this critical juncture. This interview offers essential insights for parents, students, and policymakers seeking to understand the future of Nepal's private education system.