KATHMANDU, March 20: With a near two-thirds majority secured in the March 5 elections, the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) is poised to form the next government. As expectations rise, a key question emerges: can the party deliver on its ambitious education reform agenda?
Education has been placed at the center of RSP’s policy priorities, largely in response to a growing crisis—millions of Nepali youth leaving the country each year for study and employment. The party’s election pledge outlines a comprehensive plan to curb this trend, presenting 100 policy directions aimed at transforming the education sector.
A skills-driven approach
At the heart of RSP’s plan is a shift toward skill-based education. The party has pledged to ensure that every Grade 12 graduate obtains a market-recognized vocational skill certificate. To support this, it plans to establish “Broad Skill Centers” in all seven provinces, creating opportunities for youth within the country.
In parallel, RSP aims to position Nepal as a regional technology hub by boosting IT exports to over Rs 50 billion annually. This includes expanding high-speed internet access and developing co-working infrastructure to attract both domestic and international talent.
Balancing public and private education
Education Minister Paudel presents his work plan
RSP’s approach to education reform departs from traditional party positions by advocating a balanced model. It seeks to strengthen public education while recognizing private institutions as complementary partners.
The party has committed to making education politically neutral, service-oriented, and accountable. Private institutions will be regulated based on fees, infrastructure, teacher qualifications, and learning outcomes, with an emphasis on transparency and social responsibility.
“We will significantly invest in public education over the next two decades to improve quality, access, and competitiveness,” the manifesto states.
Focus on inclusion and accessibility
RSP has also emphasized inclusive education. It plans to establish at least one advanced inclusive model school in each province and gradually make all schools accessible to children with disabilities.
The policy includes integrating services such as occupational, speech, and behavioral therapies within schools, alongside the use of AI-based assistive technologies. Teachers will receive specialized training to address diverse learning needs, while support programs aim to reduce the burden on families.
Reforming teachers and universities
Recognizing teachers as the backbone of the education system, RSP has pledged to introduce merit-based recruitment, promotion, and evaluation systems. Academic appointments will be made transparent and competency-driven.
At the higher education level, universities are set for restructuring. The party aims to make them research-oriented, autonomous, and aligned with market demands. It also plans to foster industry-academia collaboration and revise curricula to meet international standards.
RSP sees potential for Nepal to emerge as a regional education hub. Its plans include partnerships with foreign universities, allowing international campuses in Nepal, simplifying visa procedures, and encouraging Nepali scholars abroad to return.
Depoliticizing education
One of the most striking elements of RSP’s agenda is its commitment to removing political influence from educational institutions. The party has proposed banning political affiliation among teachers and professors, as well as restricting student organizations from disruptive activities.
Instead, it envisions a non-partisan student representation system that promotes leadership, creativity, and constructive engagement while maintaining academic discipline.
Expert perspective
Educationist Dr Bidyanath Koirala views RSP’s approach as a departure from past policies, noting that previous governments either resisted private education or sought to phase it out. In contrast, RSP’s model integrates public and private sectors.
He believes the party’s framework provides a clear roadmap for reform, but emphasizes that effective implementation—particularly targeted investment in weaker public schools—will be crucial.
