‘Learn-and-Earn’ program cut hits practical education in community schools

KATHMANDU: The discontinuation of the ‘Learn-and-Earn’ program in community schools has created challenges for technical and skill-based education.

The program, which provided students with hands-on and practical learning opportunities, has left schools struggling to maintain the same level of experiential education.

According to Dhruvaraj Regmi, principal of Yashodhara Secondary School in Taksar, Bhojpur Municipality-12, the removal of the program has directly impacted teaching and learning. “Without the ‘Learn-and-Earn’ program, it has become difficult to provide necessary materials, conduct fieldwork, and give students practical training,” he said.

He added, “This program was highly effective in community schools. Students were gaining practical knowledge while earning a small income from their own production. Its removal weakens practical learning, and it is unfortunate that such a useful program has been discontinued.”

The program was halted in the fiscal year 2081/82. Under the initiative, schools engaged students in farming vegetables, fruits, rice, and mushrooms, as well as other skill-based activities. Some schools even rented land to run commercial training programs. With the program discontinued, schools conducting commercial activities are now finding it challenging to continue practical education.

School authorities have urged the government to introduce alternative programs to sustain skill-based learning opportunities.