An hour passed when nearly 10-15 locals registered their suggestions. Their major concerns were over gender, citizenship and religion. However, no one talked about education until Srishika Shrestha, a ninth grader took the microphone.
"I hear everyone talking about citizenship, gender and ways of restructuring the country but no one appears to be concerned about improving the education sector. I had come to listen but as I see no one has shown any concern about education, I think I must speak," said Shrestha. She said the education sector in Nepal is in need of drastic improvement.
Talking to Republica, Shrestha said, "Many students from underprivileged families would get the opportunity to study and better their future if the government sets up free education for up to grade 12. Moreover, the government should allocate more scholarships to attract children," said Shrestha.
Rosi Lama, a 10th grader from the same school echoed Shrestha. However, she emphasized more on the need to make the schoolteachers disciplined. "Even in our school, there have been incidents where teachers have tried to sexually harrass students. Such teachers should be given harsh punishment," said Lama.
While the students shared their views, lawmakers of Lalitpur constituency-7, both Siddhi Lal Singh and Chand Maharjan noted down the suggestions.
The scenario was no less different at another public hearing on the constitution held at Tinkune area of Kathmandu. Besides advocating for a better education system, students from NERIC Academy expressed dissatisfaction over the aggressive behaviors of locals present to make their comments.
"We are all here to listen and make comments but looking at our elder's childish behavior is making us very uncomfortable. We don't understand why they are fighting over the microphone. Can't they just wait for their turn and make their comments decently," said Pramila Gairi, a ninth grader.
'Education should be free up to university level'
LALITPUR, July 21: Most students, who participated in public feedback collection organized by Omega International Higher Secondary School, Kumaripati on Tuesday, demanded fewer provinces, free education up to university level and restoration of Hindu state.
Free education by law
“Education should be free up to the university level,” said Prabhat Roy, a 12th grader, while another student, Shankar Shah, said, “There should be as few states as possible. Each state should be connected with hill, mountain and Tarai. It would be better if the Constituent Assembly turned existing five development regions into five provinces.” Sandhya Khatry wanted a woman as prime minister and president of the country.
“There has been no woman prime minister in Nepal's history. The new constitution should have a provision to address this,” said Khatry. Majority of the students spoke in favor of Hindu state. Lawanaya Dhungana, Program Coordinator of Omega, assured that the students' suggestions will be sent to the CA through the CA member of this constituency.
Madan Amatya, CA member from constituency number three of Lalitpur, who was inspired by student's participation and inputs, however expressed disappointment with the CA process. He complained that top leaders have rendered CA members role-less. Amatya assured the students that he would take all their views to the concerned committee
