Earning while Learning: A revolutionary approach to reform Higher Education of Nepal.

As per the present education system of Nepal, a student has to continue study till the age of 24 years to complete formal education up to Master's level. It is based on the calculation that a child gets admitted to grade 1 at the age of 5 years, completes basic level at 13 years, secondary level at the age of 17 years, bachelor's at age of 22 years and Master's level at the age of 24 years. In between, if the student fails or repeats certain level , the total time may reach up to 30 years. The average life span  of a Nepali citizen is about 70 years and about half of his/her life is taken by formal education. Then when to get a job, or get married, or set up a beautiful house?

Secondly, the academic calendar of Universities in Nepal is really frustrating. It even takes 7-8years for graduation in 4 years Bachelor curriculum. This has paralyzed the most fruitful age of youths in the colleges and still ending up with skill less degree and unemployment. So, the current school curriculum as well as university curriculum needs a drastic reform and inclusion of earning aspect along wiht education for university students. 

Hence it is necessary to include the curriculum of vocational skills and training in the basic level as well as in secondary level. The introduction of a course of Occupation, Business and Technology Education in grades six to eight is an important step in this regard. If teaching learning is structured in such a way that the products of the students are accessible to the market, the students earn when they learn.

Another important provision in the vocational training in our country is the curriculum under the programs of CTEVT. However, these courses are expensive and are not accessible to all people.