KATHMANDU, June 15: Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has decided to establish two levels of primary education within the metropolitan area to enhance the educational quality of public education.

Mayor of KMC, Balendra Shah (Balen) presented the policies and programs of the fiscal year 2024/25 at the 15th Municipal Assembly on Friday, proposing to integrate Grade 1 into primary education from the upcoming academic session to enhance the quality of public education.

Currently, the concept of Early Childhood Development (ECD) is being implemented nationwide to prepare for Grade 1 admissions. However, private schools have been conducting three levels of pre-primary classes due to which they have shown positive educational outcomes.

Mayor Balen has stated that the KMC has adopted a policy to prioritize the education and health of children, including the implementation of a day meal program with a diet plan. 

"In schools with fewer than 200 students, a central kitchen arrangement will be made," said Mayor Shah. "In consideration of children with autism, the metropolitan city will establish a special school," he further added.

Mayor Shah stated that arrangements have been made to distribute scholarships provided by community, institutional, and non-governmental bodies through a unified system in the metropolis.

The metropolis has adopted a policy to ensure inclusive learning environments without discrimination in all private and community schools for students with disabilities.

Regarding educational and employment counseling services, Mayor Shah mentioned, "A Kathmandu-based Skill and Training Academy will be established for the authorization, regulation, examination, and certification of educational and career advice providers." Additionally, based on assessments of physical and financial conditions of community schools, a School Improvement Project will be initiated.

He added, "Financial administration of the schools will be maintained through financial audits conducted by the metropolis."

"The Academy will operate sports programs in schools to foster potential athletes," said Mayor Shah. "The metropolis has a policy to organize monthly sports events annually in schools. The KMC has decided to attract foreign students by developing Kathmandu as an international educational destination," he added.