May 12, Kathmandu - Education, Science, and Technology Minister Sasmita Pokhrel has expressed the government’s commitment to implementing positive reforms. During a session of the Education, Health, and Information Technology Committee at Singha Durbar, Minister Pokhrel responded to questions raised by lawmakers about ongoing challenges.

He informed that due to fuel shortages and cabinet decisions, the academic session for this year had to be postponed and started from Baisakh 15. Adjustments were made to the schedule following an interim order from the Supreme Court, leading to classes resuming from Baisakh 21. The minister also highlighted ongoing discussions with local authorities, including Kathmandu and Lalitpur metropolitan cities, regarding the implementation of the committee’s recommendations on holidays and credit hours.

Addressing concerns about school fee regulation, Pokhrel assured that local governments have the authority to oversee fee collection, and schools charging excessive fees will face strict action. To ensure transparency, the ministry has launched a new system for managing the 10% scholarships offered to students. Under this system, students receiving scholarships must submit detailed profiles, including personal information, parental income sources, and photographs, through the ‘Image’ platform.

Minister Pokhrel further emphasized efforts to improve access to science and technology in remote areas through specialized policy initiatives. He also revealed that disciplinary proceedings are underway against professors at Tribhuvan University who take study leaves to collect stipends without returning the funds. Additionally, regulations have been issued to ensure timely payment of stipends to doctors at Chitwan Medical College, and some recipients have already begun returning the money.

He reiterated that teachers should leave political activities aside and focus on professionalism within educational institutions. Regarding school mergers, Pokhrel clarified that they would only be used as a last resort, primarily in areas with low student numbers and accessible locations.

The minister also announced plans to establish supplementary exams and additional classes for students who fail the SEE examinations, improve access to clean drinking water in schools, and amend laws to recognize medical professionals with D.M. qualifications as equivalent to Ph.D. holders. To prevent educational disruptions for students from marginalized communities, the ministry is developing a dedicated portal to address grievances and ensure inclusive learning.