Draft:2025 Nepal Teachers Protest

2025 Nepal Teachers' Protest

The 2025 Nepal Teachers' Protest refers to a nationwide strike and series of demonstrations by public school teachers across Nepal during April 2025. Organized primarily by the Nepal Teachers' Federation (NTF), the movement was triggered by dissatisfaction with the government's proposed School Education Bill, which the educators believed undermined job security, centralized control, and neglected long-standing agreements made with teachers' unions.

Background

Following Nepal's transition to federalism in 2015, the need for an updated School Education Act became apparent. Teachers' unions consistently voiced concerns over the decentralization of teacher management to local governments, fearing increased politicization and inconsistency in standards. The government attempted to introduce a new education bill in 2023, but faced repeated delays and failed to incorporate previously agreed terms with teacher organizations.

Start of the Movement

On April 2, 2025, the Nepal Teachers' Federation initiated an indefinite strike, mobilizing tens of thousands of teachers from all 77 districts. Demonstrations centered in Kathmandu, especially around Maitighar and New Baneshwor, disrupted the capital's traffic and daily routines. The protests intensified after the government failed to provide clear commitments, prompting continued sit-ins and nationwide school shutdowns.

Key Demands

Teachers demanded:

• Job security and permanency for relief quota and contract teachers.
• Equal pay and benefits comparable to civil servants.
• Legal backing for previous agreements signed between the government and unions.
• Opposition to the delegation of teacher recruitment and management to local governments.
• Medical facilities and inclusion in social security schemes.
• Timely passage of the School Education Act with union representation.

Major Events

As protests intensified:

• On April 14, rallies shut down major city areas.
• On April 18, over 60 protestors were injured in clashes with police.
• April 22 saw the resignation of Education Minister following mounting pressure.
• On April 24, the National Examination Board postponed Grade 12 exams.

Impact

The protest led to the closure of over 28,000 public schools, disrupting education for more than 6 million students nationwide. Public transport and local businesses were affected, especially in Kathmandu. The NEB's Grade 12 board exams were postponed by 10 days. Parents and civil society began calling for a swift resolution.

Government Response

Initially hesitant, the government later initiated talks with union leaders. On April 27, officials and union leaders met but failed to reach consensus. International observers and rights groups criticized police action during the protest. On April 30, following political pressure, a preliminary agreement was reached and the strike was suspended.

See Also

• Education in Nepal
• Constitution of Nepal