In Nepal, a major teachers' strike is now in its third day, causing widespread disruption to public schools, affecting millions of students. Approximately 110,000 teachers are protesting against an education reform bill in parliament, primarily objecting to proposals granting local governments authority over schools and prohibiting teachers from affiliating with political groups. The protests escalated with a march toward the parliament building in Kathmandu, met by anti-riot police. Students and parents are appealing for a resolution to the strike to resume classes. Some teachers argue that their rights are being infringed by the bill, particularly a provision restricting their involvement in politically affiliated organizations.
This issue has historical roots as Nepali teachers have played significant roles in the country's democratic struggles. However, education experts contend that teacher involvement in politics may undermine educational quality and advocate for the prohibition of party politics within educational institutions.
Nepali teachers on strike are opposing the idea of local government having control over schools, arguing that such authority should remain with the federal government. A constitutional change from 2015 decentralized governance of certain public institutions, including schools and hospitals, due to concerns about excessive centralization in Kathmandu. After eight years, some teachers claim that local officials lack the necessary skills to manage schools, resulting in a decline in education quality. Nonetheless, many Nepalis are in favor of the bill, as they see it as a means to enhance teacher accountability.
Nepali teachers have presented several demands to the government, including transferring decisions on promotions and transfers to the provincial level rather than local municipalities. They are also seeking higher wages, the establishment of a council for overseeing teacher training, and opportunities for contract-based teachers to secure permanent positions. The Nepal Teachers' Association, led by Kamala Tuladhar, claims that previous agreements with the government were not fully honored, leading to their current protest. Acting Prime Minister Purna Bahadur stated that the teachers initiated the protest without prior notice of their demands. Although government officials met with the protesting teachers, the discussions were described as "positive" but inconclusive.
The teachers have threatened to continue their demonstrations if their demands are not met, while the government has assured that it has no intention of undermining teacher morale, according to Kamal Giri, the press adviser to Deputy Prime Minister Narayankaji Shrestha.
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