Ministry Mulls Biannual Intake for Schools and Universities

The Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology is contemplating the introduction of biannual intakes in secondary schools and universities, aiming to address the prevalent issue of student dropouts and the allure of foreign employment among the youth.

Secretary Suresh Adhikari, speaking at a conference organized by the Monitoring Educational Foundation, revealed the ministry’s consideration of this policy shift. Adhikari emphasized that the proposal comes amidst concerns over a significant number of students discontinuing their education midway, either due to failing annual exams or opting for foreign employment opportunities.

Highlighting the pressing need for educational reform, Adhikari noted that a staggering 43 percent of students in Grades 9 to 12 had dropped out, with only 15 to 20 percent gaining admission to higher education institutions. Additionally, an estimated 1.5 million students seek opportunities abroad annually.

Adhikari underscored that while Nepal boasts reputable higher education institutions, many students opt for foreign universities primarily for perceived better career prospects. He stressed that the proposed policy aims to address this trend.

Furthermore, Adhikari advocated for universities to evolve into research hubs, emphasizing the importance of self-sufficiency to reduce reliance on government funding.

Professor Lekhnath Sharma, former Vice-Chancellor of Nepal Open University, urged stakeholders to prioritize IT-driven educational policies to bridge intergenerational gaps effectively.

The conference saw experts and stakeholders engaging in discussions on various topics, including Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), vocational education, agriculture, health, environment education, and fiscal sector reforms.