Education in crisis

In recent decades, Nepal's education system has made notable progress. The government has prioritised the expansion of educational opportunities, as demonstrated by the 2016 education reform bill, which made Grades 1 to 8 education free and compulsory. However, significant challenges remain, with many students still lacking access to quality education and opportunities.

Most public schools grapple with under-resourcing, leading to difficulties in recruiting and retaining teachers. Consequently, in areas with insufficient teacher allocations, primary school teachers find themselves compelled to instruct secondary level students, exacerbating their workload and compromising the quality of education. This strain particularly impacts students preparing for the SLC board examination, as they are taught by instructors who may lack the qualifications to adequately prepare them for success. That 67% of public school students failed their SLC in 2015 signifies this pattern of underperformance, conveying the need for systemic change.

Financial constraints and disinterest hinder many Nepalese students from completing their education, perpetuating a cycle of limited opportunities. Despite efforts to enhance educational access, significant barriers persist, particularly for those from disadvantaged and rural communities.

Teacher quality remains a pervasive concern, with many educators lacking adequate training. Low salaries and limited professional development exacerbate high turnover rates, aggravating the shortage of qualified instructors. Insufficient access to teaching materials, textbooks, and technology further impedes educational quality.

UKF’s model for change

To address these challenges, the Upendra Kandel Foundation will:
Hire, train, and support teachers: UKF aims to address the shortage of qualified educators by actively recruiting teachers, providing them with comprehensive training programs to enhance their teaching skills, and offering ongoing support to ensure their continued professional development. By investing in the capacity-building of teachers, UKF seeks to improve the overall quality of education imparted in schools.
Donate essential resources: Recognizing the critical role of resources in facilitating effective learning, UKF plans to donate essential educational materials such as textbooks, laptops, and science equipment to schools in need. These resources will not only supplement classroom instruction but also enable students to engage in hands-on learning experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of various subjects.
Fund scholarships for disadvantaged communities: In an effort to break the cycle of limited opportunities as a result of financial constraints, UKF intends to provide scholarships to students from disadvantaged communities. These scholarships will enable deserving students to pursue their education without facing financial barriers, empowering them to fulfil their academic potential and pursue higher education or vocational training opportunities.

Offer English and IT lessons to schools in rural locales: Recognizing the importance of English language proficiency and IT skills in today's globalized world, UKF plans to offer English language and IT lessons to schools in rural areas. By equipping students with these essential skills, the foundation aims to enhance their employability prospects and broaden their access to educational and economic opportunities beyond their local communities.