A big hue and cry about online classes for students and this takes me back to the “Maoist Insurgency”era!That period is a black phase in the history of #Nepal & to be specific for children of school going age!Many lost opportunities to get basic education1/8
The ones who could continue their education during the time were the ones who had access, less risk and of course, few children of the Maoist leaders who were sent elsewhere! We used to talk about the class division that were to come in few years time 2/8
A void in the quality education received! And now when I see the discussion around not letting children go for online courses, I am pulled back to that phase again and fear that void for children sitting idly for months would lead to eventual frustration! 3/8
Agree the issue again is about access BUT who is to be blamed for this? Every school be it govt or private should be able to communicate with its students one way or the other! I do not advocate discrimination BUT time we reflect on privileges and biases! 4/8
Time the Ministry of Education come with relief packages for educational institutions that cannot provide access to its students!They have the right to basic education even during a pandemic!Globally from kindergarten onwards online classes are happening5/8
And why should #Nepal go back to the dark era where by pointing privileges and biases we punish children! Pathetic that the Ministry cannot decide till Day 42! BUT schools, teachers and students trying to adjust to online is a welcoming step! 6/8
Of course flaws are there and schools will need to reassess grading structure BUT let Nepali children get a taste of online!Community school packages for access needs to be looked into and provided so that we rise above discussion of “have and have nots” 7/8
But look for access to each student and parents who are not privy to such! It is a difficult period for the educators, children and parents BUT we must rise beyond this “differences!” This is where federal structure should come into play! #RightToEducation 🙏🏽
