Education vs. Schooling:

Before we define “school,” it’s essential to distinguish between education and schooling. Education is a lifelong process of learning and understanding the world around us. It’s a social process, as John Dewey described it, emphasizing living rather than mere preparation for the future. In contrast, schooling often appears as an institution with a specific motive: to impart knowledge according to predefined plans. Paulo Freire famously called this approach “banking,” where learners are treated as passive recipients of knowledge deposits.

Greek Origins:

The modern word “school” traces back to the Greek word “skhole,” which initially meant “spare time,” “leisure,” or “learned discussion.” Learning was once associated with leisure or pastime.

What Makes a Good School Culture?:

A strong school culture revolves around connections. Key elements include:

• Fundamental Beliefs
• Shared Values
• Norms (how people should act)
• Patterns and Behaviors
• Tangible Evidence

Purposes of School:

Is school solely about knowledge? While learning expands the mind, the question arises: What knowledge, and who decides? School exposes students to diverse ideas and concepts, providing personal fulfillment. However, the purpose extends beyond mere knowledge acquisition.

In summary, schools serve as educational institutions and physical spaces where teachers guide students in their learning journey. They play a crucial role in shaping minds, fostering connections, and contributing to personal growth and societal progress. 

Pre-Covid Situations:

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, education in Nepal faced both progress and challenges. Here are some key points:

1. Educational Progress:

   • Nepal had made considerable strides in education indicators over the past two decades.
   • Efforts were being made to improve access to quality education for all children¹.

2. Challenges and Inequalities:

   • School Closures: In March 2020, all educational institutions in the Kathmandu Valley were abruptly shut down due to the pandemic, affecting year-end examinations.
   • Economic Inequality: The pandemic’s containment measures amplified economic inequality and social disparities across the country.
   • Digital Divide: The shift to distance and online education highlighted discrepancies in internet access and quality of education.
   • Public vs. Private Response: Inequalities persisted between public and private educational responses to the pandemic.
   • Mental Health: The crisis also impacted mental health among students and educators.

3. Efforts to Mitigate Impact:

   • Initiatives aimed to limit the negative impact of the pandemic on learning opportunities.
   • Alternative resources like the internet, radio, and television were used to ensure continuity of learning at home

In summary, while Nepal had made progress in education, the pandemic posed significant challenges, emphasizing the need for equitable access and innovative solutions. 

During Covid:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Nepal faced significant disruptions in education. Here are some key points:

1. School Closures:

   • Extent: All 34,816 schools in Nepal were closed for more than an academic year.
   • Impact: This jeopardized children’s health, safety, and resulted in substantial learning loss for almost 8.3 million school-aged children

2. Digital Divide and Inequalities:

   • Visibility of Inequities: Extensive lockdowns and surges in COVID-19 cases exacerbated educational inequalities and digital divides.
   • Marginalized Youth: Many marginalized youth from informal settlements and low-income areas around Kathmandu Valley faced challenges due to financial struggles, connectivity issues, and the growing digital divide.
   • PiE Program: St. Xavier’s College’s Partnership in Education (PiE) program became a lifeline for marginalized youth during the pandemic, providing education and support

3. Economic Impact:

   • Job Losses: Government-enforced containment measures amplified economic inequality, with a significant incidence of job loss or prolonged work absence reported by economically active workers.
   • Health and Safety: Schools were abruptly shut down in March 2020, affecting year-end examinations³.

In summary, Nepal grappled with educational challenges during the pandemic, emphasizing the need for equitable access, innovative solutions, and support for marginalized communities. 

Post Covid Situations:

the post-COVID education situation and schools in Nepal:

1. School Closures and Learning Loss:

   • The COVID-19 pandemic led to widespread school closures in Nepal, affecting all 34,816 schools.
   • These closures jeopardized children’s health, safety, and resulted in substantial learning loss among approximately 8.3 million school-aged children¹.

2. Educational Inequalities and Digital Divides:

   • In the capital, Kathmandu, extensive lockdowns and surges in COVID-19 cases exacerbated educational inequalities and digital divides.
   • Marginalized youth from informal settlements and low-income areas around Kathmandu Valley faced challenges due to financial struggles, connectivity issues, and the growing digital divide.
   • St. Xavier’s College’s Partnership in Education (PiE) program stepped in to fill education gaps and support marginalized youth during the pandemic².

3. Challenges Identified:

   • Interviews highlighted four major issues:
     • Socioeconomic Hardship: COVID-19 containment measures caused financial struggles.
     • Digital Divide: Unequal access to technology impacted learning.
     • Public vs. Private Responses: Disparities between public and private educational institutions.
     • Mental Health: The crisis affected students’ well-being

4. Government Response and Opportunities:

   • The pandemic provided opportunities for the government to devolve school education management to local levels.
   • New plans and guidelines aimed to continue education amid the pandemic

In summary, Nepal faced significant challenges in education during and after COVID-19, emphasizing the need for equity, innovation, and support for marginalized communities.