Government Eyes Boost in Education Investment, Tied to Economic Growth - Education Minister Ashok Rai

Kathmandu, 10 October 2023 - In a pivotal House of Representatives meeting on Sunday, Education, Science and Technology Minister, Ashok Kumar Rai, highlighted the government's unwavering stance on amplifying investment in the education sector.

Economic Growth as the Cornerstone

The minister laid emphasis on the country's economic progression as the foundational step before any significant hikes in the educational budget can be achieved. He stated, "The roadmap to augmenting our educational investments is intrinsically tied to the nation's economic prosperity."

Budget Breakdown

Outlining the current fiscal distribution, Minister Rai shed light on the 11.27 percent allocation of the total budget towards education. He expressed optimism, noting, "With the ongoing economic advancements, we foresee a potential surge in the education budget in the subsequent years."

However, Rai was quick to underscore the multifaceted challenges of the equation. "Economic growth, burgeoning industries, flourishing trade, and burgeoning agricultural output are all key determinants influencing the trajectory of our educational investments," he emphasized.

Bill Enrichment and Stakeholder Consultation

Minister Rai also hinted at the potential refinement of the School Education Bill-2080 through broader consultations with subject-matter experts. He reiterated the government's commitment to cater to the legitimate concerns of educators, students, and guardians. "We are steadfast in our pursuit to shape a bill that resonates with the aspirations and demands of all stakeholders," he affirmed.