College Readers recently had the opportunity to speak with Hemlal Sharma Bhusal, the Founder Chairman of Butwal Public School and Joint Treasurer of PABSON Central Committee. He shared with College Readers his unique approach to education, which includes the implementation of bookless education.

College Readers recently had the opportunity to speak with Hemlal Sharma Bhusal, the Founder Chairman of Butwal Public School and Joint Treasurer of PABSON Central Committee. He shared with College Readers his unique approach to education, which includes the implementation of bookless education.

Bhusal explained that the goal of bookless education is to encourage students to become independent learners, and to develop their creativity and critical thinking skills. While it may be uncomfortable for students and parents in the initial phase, this concept is ultimately accepted as useful, as they become more accustomed to it.

During our conversation, Bhusal emphasized the benefits of progressive education and the role that bookless education plays in this approach. He believes that by allowing students to take ownership of their learning, they are better able to develop the skills they need to succeed in today's rapidly changing world.

You have extensive experience in educational practices in Nepal. In your opinion, what should be the next level of school education in Nepal to align with the skills needed in the 21st century?

I completely agree with your perspective on education in the 21st century. To prepare students for the future, we need to promote bookless and research-based education that emphasizes innovation, proactivity, technology, and ethics. This approach, which can be termed progressive education, puts the focus on student-centered learning and encourages students to take ownership of their education.

It's encouraging to see that many countries, such as Finland, the U.K., and India, are prioritizing progressive education. By giving students the tools, they need to become independent learners and critical thinkers, we can help them to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Additionally, by leveraging technology in the classroom, we can create a more dynamic and engaging learning experience that prepares students for the digital age.

You also have a prominent role in PABSON. Currently, the slogan “Education with Skills, Culture, and Ethics” is gaining popularity as a campaign. How successful do you believe private schools have been in incorporating this type of education?

It is impressive to see how many private schools have embraced technological advancements and successfully conducted virtual classes during the pandemic crisis. This demonstrates their commitment to providing quality education to their students and willingness to adapt to changing circumstances.

In the 21st century, education must go beyond just imparting knowledge, it should also focus on developing skills, culture, and ethics. Progressive education is the best approach to meet this demand and prepare Nepalese students to be globally competitive in human resources. It encourages critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, which are essential in today's world.

However, some small schools still struggle to survive and provide adequate training for their teachers. To strengthen their teaching and learning efficiency, these schools should consider merging with other schools. By pooling their resources, they can adopt the progressive model and provide a better education for their students.

Quality education cannot be guaranteed solely by the efforts of a school; parents also play an essential role. In your opinion, what is the primary role of parents in enhancing quality education?

You're absolutely right about the significant role that parents play in the academic success of their children. In fact, they are an indispensable part of the success of any academic institution. However, being a good parent is not an easy task and comes with many responsibilities.

It is concerning to hear that about 80% of parents in Nepal think that it is solely the responsibility of schools to provide a good education for their children. While paying fees and taking financial burden is important, it is equally important for parents to ensure that their children act responsibly and embrace personal and social etiquette.

Conscious and sanguine parents should make an effort to get information about each activity of their children and the school. They should visit the school regularly, provide feedback, and take updated information about their children's progress. By doing so, they can play an active role in their children's education and development.

Proper support and care from parents are essential for the development of their children and academic institutions. By working together with the school, parents can create a positive learning environment for their children and help them to reach their full potential.

What is bookless education? What qualities do teachers need to implement this approach?

Bookless education is an approach that emphasizes learning without textbooks. While books are used as references, the focus is on practical learning experiences that encourage students to become more independent learners and develop critical thinking skills. This approach provides students with hands-on experiences that can help them apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations and fosters creativity and innovation.

To effectively implement bookless education, we need skilled and up-to-date teachers. These teachers are well-versed in Internet and computer technologies and understand the current trends in education. They use various online resources such as educational apps and digital content to supplement their teaching and enhance students' learning. They also provide opportunities for students to work collaboratively and engage in online discussions, which helps them develop essential communication and teamwork skills.

Outdated teaching methods that rely solely on textbooks and lectures are not effective in today's educational landscape. Teachers who lack knowledge about current trends and technology may struggle to engage students and provide them with the tools they need to succeed in the future. That's why it's essential to prioritize skilled and up-to-date teachers in bookless education, to ensure that students receive quality education that prepares them for the challenges of the 21st century.

Finally, what message would you like to convey to the parents?

Proper management, academic environment, trained teaching faculty, physical infrastructure, teaching pedagogy, selection of the right course book, and feedback from pass-out students are all crucial in ensuring that a school provides quality education to its students.

It's great to hear that Butwal Public School is a center of academic excellence and is dedicated to the personal well-being and social responsibility of its students. The school's focus on curricular, co-curricular, and extra-curricular activities is a testament to its commitment to incorporating education with life skills, culture, and technology. By prioritizing practical orientation, the school is preparing its students to thrive in the real world.

I would like to convey the message to all parents and students that supporting a school like Butwal Public School can make a significant difference in the lives of students. The school is working tirelessly to bring breakthroughs in the education of its students, and it's important to recognize and appreciate these efforts.