Teachers’ protest yields historic gains, federation thanks participants

KATHMANDU: The Chair of the Nepal Teachers’ Federation, Laxmi Kishor Subedi, has extended heartfelt gratitude to all teachers and staff who actively participated in the recently concluded nationwide protest.

Hailing it as a “historic achievement,” Subedi emphasized that the unity, dedication, and trust in leadership shown by educators and employees formed the bedrock of the movement’s success.

The protest, which began on 20th Magh 2078, lasted for a total of 89 days, with the final 29 days focused on street demonstrations in Kathmandu.

Subedi highlighted the unwavering enthusiasm and resilience of teachers and staff who marched daily through sun and rain in the capital, drawing significant public and media attention.

According to Subedi, the movement successfully resolved long-standing issues such as equal grades and salaries, and secured key benefits for temporary teachers, including provisions for accumulated sick leave and equal access to medical treatment at Civil Hospital.

Additional achievements include:

Remote area allowances for all teachers.

Resolution of teacher seniority hierarchy issues.

A formal written commitment from parliamentary leaders and committee chairs ensuring the new Education Act will be passed by Asar 15, 2082.

Further provisions to be included in the upcoming Education Act are:

Pension rights, periodic promotions, and recognition of temporary service periods.

Permanent employment status for relief, contract, former lower secondary, special education, and technical stream teachers.

Solutions for ECD teachers and school staff.

Chair Subedi also confirmed that the Federation will play an active role in drafting the new Education Act, and announced continued advocacy for the amendment of the Pension Fund Act 2075 to ensure full pension rights for teachers appointed permanently after 2075.

While the Federation strived for a peaceful resolution, the movement was marred on its 26th day by police intervention, which led to injuries among 62 teachers and staff. Subedi expressed deep respect and wished a speedy recovery for the injured.

He concluded by thanking all demonstrators, Federation officials, mobilization committee members, stakeholder organizations, and those who supported the cause in various capacities.