Pokhara, 1 January | In a significant move to reform the internal environment of educational institutions, the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology has officially prohibited the appointment of Discipline Incharges (DIs) across all private schools and colleges in Nepal. This decision, aimed at eliminating the culture of fear and physical intimidation, was formalized through a ministerial-level decree by Education Minister Mahabir Pun. The ministry’s directive comes in response to escalating complaints regarding the mental and physical harassment inflicted upon students by these officials under the guise of maintaining order. The ban applies to all private educational entities, including those operating with affiliations from international universities.
Minister Mahabir Pun revealed that the catalyst for this immediate policy shift was a heart-wrenching phone call from a distressed parent. The parent described the severe psychological trauma and physical abuse their child endured at the hands of a college DI. Further investigations by the ministry uncovered that several private institutions were using DIs not only for disciplinary reasons but also as a tool to intimidate parents and students over delayed fee payments. Minister Pun emphasized that such repressive measures are detrimental to the learning process and have no place in a modern educational system. He asserted that the ministry would no longer tolerate “gangster-style” management that creates an atmosphere of terror within academic premises.
As a mandatory alternative to the DI system, the ministry has directed all schools and colleges to establish dedicated “Counseling Centers.” Instead of punitive actions, institutions are now required to employ professional counselors to address student behavioral issues through psychological guidance and constructive dialogue. Alongside the ban, a comprehensive 10-point directive has been issued, mandating full transparency in fee structures, the provision of a 20 percent scholarship for students in foreign-affiliated colleges, and the installation of grievance boxes to ensure that student and parent concerns are addressed regularly. Minister Pun warned that any institution found violating these new regulations or failing to remove DIs would face the immediate revocation of their operating licenses.
