Madan Kumar Subedi, Principal of Akash Deep School/College, has been involved in the education sector for the past three decades. Currently, he’s actively engaged as a committee member of HISSAN, Bagmati Province. College Readers recently caught up with him and discussed his vision of education and his role as a responsible educational activist. Excerpts

With your extensive experience in the education field spanning several decades, what insights can you provide regarding the future development of the education system in Nepal?
The education sector in Nepal has faced numerous challenges in the past, primarily due to the limitation resources and the scarcity of skilled professionals. The lack of necessary means to adapt and improve hinders the growth of a system. However, the situation has undergone a significant transformation in the recent times with the availability of abundant resources and a growing pool of skilled individuals. These advancements have opened up new possibilities for the education sector. Despite these positive developments, the educational system in Nepal still grapples with substantial issues that demand attention. The primary cause of these problems lies in the lack of clear direction and guidance from the government regarding educational concepts and strategies. Without a well-defined vision and framework, it becomes a challenging task for all the stakeholders to implement effective reforms and bring about substantial changes in the system. However, there is a collective determination to raise the standards of education in Nepal and offer students world-class level education. The focus is now shifting towards skill-oriented knowledge that prepares students for the future. The aim is to equip them with practical skills that are relevant and applicable, ensuring their usefulness and success in their chosen paths. Efforts are being made to align curricula and teaching methodologies with this goal. Interactive and experiential learning methods are being promoted, allowing students to engage actively in the learning process. Integration of vocational training, internships, and entrepreneurship skills development are being prioritized. A holistic approach to education, encompassing not only academic growth but also social and emotional development, is being emphasized. While challenges persist, the commitment to enhancing the education system in Nepal remains strong. The focus on skill-oriented education and the recognition of practical skills as essential components of learning are promising steps. By addressing the existing challenges, providing clear directives, and implementing reforms, Nepal aims to create an education system that empowers students with the necessary tools and knowledge to thrive in a competitive and dynamic global landscape.

What initiatives should the HISSAN Bagmati province undertake?
HISSAN (Higher Secondary Schools' Association Nepal), Bagmati Province, plays a pivotal role in the development of quality education across Nepal. With this significant responsibility, HISSAN acts as a vital bridge connecting the districts with the central authority. Strengthening this bridging process becomes imperative for effective collaboration and coordination in the education sector.

One of the key tasks for HISSAN is to establish and maintain a seamless flow of communication between the districts and the center. This involves ensuring that information, discussions, and decisions originating from the central authority reach the grassroots level efficiently. By acting as an intermediary, HISSAN can disseminate policies, guidelines, and updates, facilitating their implementation and addressing the concerns or queries, if there are any, that rise at the district level. To fulfill its mission effectively, HISSAN operates with strict adherence to rules and regulations. By upholding a robust framework, it provides a structured environment for educational institutions, ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability. This includes overseeing compliance with standards, managing resources effectively, and fostering an environment conducive to quality education. Moreover, HISSAN has the responsibility to advocate for the needs and aspirations of the educational community it represents. By actively engaging in policy discussions, HISSAN can voice the concerns, suggestions, and aspirations of schools, teachers, and students at the national level. This active involvement contributes to shaping educational policies, reforms, and decisions that align with the requirements and aspirations of the stakeholders. In essence, HISSAN's role as a bridge between districts and the central authority is instrumental in promoting educational excellence and holistic development. By strengthening this bridging process, while simultaneously adhering to rules and regulations, and facilitating the flow of information and discussions, HISSAN can effectively contribute to enhancing the quality of education across the Bagmati province and beyond.

If the ongoing trend of students' exodus abroad after completing their plus 2 education at home continues, it can potentially result in a decline in the number of students remaining in Nepal for higher education. In this context, it is essential to consider the role of HISSAN.

What are the key considerations for students while selecting a course of study?

Choosing a course of study is a critical phase in a student's career. Each student has his or her own distinct qualities, abilities, and limitations. However, it is common for students to make course decisions based on peer pressure or parental interests, neglecting their personal interests. This can lead to a misguided path that hinders their chances of achieving true success. It is essential for students to prioritize their own aspirations, skills and passions while selecting a course, ensuring a path that aligns with their individuality and maximizes their potential for growth and accomplishment. Choosing a course of study is a critical phase in a student's career. Each student has his or her own distinct qualities, abilities, and limitations. However, it is common for students to make course decisions based on peer pressure, neglecting their personal interests. This can lead them through a misguided path that hinders their chances of achieving true success. It is essential for students to prioritize their own aspirations, skills, and passions when selecting a course, ensuring a path that aligns with their individuality and maximizes their potential for growth and accomplishment. In essence, what I want to emphasize is that students should take into account their personal interests while making their choices.

Lastly, what message do you want to convey to students?

The primary thing students should consider while choosing a course of study is their financial disposition and personal interests. It is crucial not to pursue a path simply because of peer influence if there is no genuine interest. At Aakash Deep family, we consistently provide support and assistance to parents and talented students through scholarships that range from 50 to 100 percent.