Minister Rai vows more investment in education

Minister for Education, Science and Technology Ashok Kumar Rai has vowed increased investment in the education sector for its development.

Addressing a programme organized on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of local Shivapuri Secondary School here today, Minister Rai, however, informed that financial problems and constraints were hindering augmentation of investment in education. The government continues investing in education to the extent the available resources allow.

"Although there is an international standard that at least 20 percent of total budget should go to education, we are able to invest only 11.77 percent," he said, assuring that the government would certainly increase the budget after the country witnesses an improved economy.

According to him, education is the prerequisite to infrastructure. Government is making an effort to increase investment in the future. Noticeable works could be accomplished if the resources had permitted.

Moreover, the Minister pointed out the need for cooperation from all sides to make the bill on education timely. The bill was drafted in consultation with the Federation of teachers, and agreement was reached with agitating teachers accordingly. Rai further made it clear that with the agreement, there was no room for grievances on the part of teachers and school staff.

"A draft of the bill for making an act to ensure quality education has been registered at parliament. Parliament is entrusted to prepare a timely and effective education bill. I am also active to make the bill timely," he reminded.

On the occasion, Nepali Congress lawmaker Pradeep Paudel suggested that the government pay attention to arrange infrastructure and human resource management of community schools so that citizen's access to quality education would be guaranteed.

He further viewed that the State could increase investment in community schools to retain students and guardians' trust.