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For a sizable number of young students, English is quite hard to crack, as the recently-published results of grade 12 show. Out of 448,837 students, a whopping 109,527 got non-graded (NG), in the words of the National Examination Board (NEB). In plainspeak, almost a quarter of the grade 12 examinees failed their English papers as they could not even score 35 percent.  

It has been years since schools—not only private and boarding schools but community and government schools also—adopted English as a medium of instruction. Many private and boarding schools do not even allow students to communicate in languages other than English on their premises.

Against this backdrop, ApEx talked with students and experts to better understand this below-par performance—not only of individual students, their parents and teachers but of the country’s education system.   

“I attempted all the questions but still failed my English exam. To be frank, I find grammar quite hard. I will now be taking tuitions to improve my grades,” says Aditya Paudel, one of the students.

Paudel is one of the 123,396 students eligible for grade increment exams to be held on Sept 23 and 24. Only after clearing these exams will they be eligible for pursuing college education. 

The experts point out that lack of reading and writing culture among students, lack of patience and lack of government policies are some of the factors that have made English a ‘difficult’ subject for many students. The lack of government policy in orienting both the teachers and students about the topics, teaching materials and methods has hampered English teaching and learning big time.

Lack of patience and motivation among students, lack of infrastructure and lack of access to latest technologies have not helped, either. Old methods of teaching, lack of interest in students, lack of growth opportunities for teachers and workload are some other problems in English teaching and learning.

“Teachers possess scant knowledge on ways to teach the topics/chapters. Orienting teachers on teaching methods will benefit both teachers and students,” says Motikala Subba Dewan, president of Nepal English Language Teachers’ Association. The government should develop a handbook of teaching materials to help with English language teaching.

“Some schools have made it compulsory for the students to speak English on their premises. It is not the right to control the use of the medium. Use of Nepali, mother tongue mediums and English will help students understand the subject matter better,” says Professor Dr Abhi Subedi.

The education institutions should be transformed into centers of learning (in a true sense) and a task-based approach used to improve the command of the language. The experts suggest assigning tasks to students by forming peer groups for positive outcomes. They have some suggestions for teachers too. The teachers should teach properly and complete the courses on time to help students clear their exams, they say. 

These days, students have unfettered access to English via the Internet. If used skillfully, this medium can help students brush up their English. Subject teachers should motivate the students to make use of this medium to polish their English and perform better in their exams, suggest the experts. 

What’s more, the experts suggest improving the English teaching environment for better results. “It should be taught naturally,” says Subedi. 

Prescriptions aside, who will help out the students in need is a moot question.

Nepal Police personnel have a very limited role at the Tribhuvan International Airport, though they are one of the most visible teams deployed for the security of the airport. These personnel are primarily stationed at the ‘Departures’ section of the airport, where they have, over the years, apprehended numerous individuals attempting to smuggle prohibited items.

However, police personnel have a minimal role in the ‘Arrivals’ section. Within the bureaucratic structure—consisting of customs and immigration officials—they hold a lower position. Though readily identifiable due to their uniform, Nepal Police personnel have a limited role to play as the immigration and customs departments have primary roles in the arrivals process. 

Despite extensive research on airport security, their findings remain unimplemented. Regular training is not enough for airport security teams; they need specialized training on airport safety.

All in all, political leadership can play a decisive role in revamping the airport security system. 

The author is former DIG of Nepal Police

It is extensively recognized that the active participation of all citizens, regardless of gender, is essential for the construction and maintenance of robust democracies and the attainment of human development goals. Throughout history, women have consistently made substantial contributions whenever provided with the chance to hold public office or lead communities and informal organizations. However, only a small percentage of women occupy leadership positions across various government branches and decision-making levels. This imbalance underscores the unequal standing of women in society, resulting in restricted access to political and other opportunities coming from both governmental and societal entities. Achieving equality in opportunities requires a fundamental shift in perception. One of the primary challenges lies in cultivating confidence in women’s capabilities. Regrettably, a significant portion of the population remains hesitant to fully acknowledge women’s competence and assign them deserving roles because it is grounded in a misconception rather than a factual representation of intelligence. It is essential to recognize that these doubts stem from deeply ingrained beliefs, rather than an accurate assessment of women’s abilities. Overcoming this barrier demands concerted efforts to challenge and change these beliefs. By doing so, the society can work toward providing women with equal opportunities and promoting their participation and leadership across all sectors. 

In Nepal, women have consistently demonstrated their intellectual capacity to lead the nation and contribute to its development. The country’s history shows that women are no less capable than men. . Nepal’s political parties exploit women during elections and movements, only to neglect them once the events are over. This is due to the prevailing male-dominated mindset, lack of awareness, male biases, and the predominance of men in all political parties. These factors collectively impede women's active participation in politics and decision-making processes.

Several factors hinder women’s engagement in public life and decision-making roles. These include limited awareness of their rights and how to assert them; restricted access to information about laws, policies, institutions, and governing structures; issues related to self-esteem and confidence; and the need for an enabling environment that facilitates women’s involvement in decision-making processes. Economic dependency, inadequate financial resources, limited access to information, perpetuation of negative stereotypes in both family and public spheres, domestic responsibilities, intimidation, harassment, and violence further contribute to these constraints.

Regrettably, women’s participation in politics and decision-making roles has largely remained marginalized within Nepal’s political systems. Despite representing grassroots interests, many women lack political influence and access to decision-making positions. A few determined women politicians like Kamakshya Devi, Kanak Lata Shrestha, Sahana Pradhan, Mangala Devi and Astalaxmi Shakya have managed to overcome obstacles and violence to attain decision-making roles. However, the prevailing male-dominated nature of politics has dissuaded most women from envisioning politics as a viable career path. Those who do pursue this path often endure harassment and discrimination in a male-dominated field. The long-standing issue of violence against women politicians persists, often hidden due to the absence of platforms to voice grievances and concerns. Women politicians’ voices have been silenced by societal norms, political parties, the state, and individuals, perpetuating their suffering.

The deeply competitive landscape of male-dominated politics, coupled with patriarchal mindsets and systemic structures, presents a substantial hurdle to women’s political participation. The refusal of political parties to nominate a sizable number of women candidates obstructs women’s engagement in governance. That women are more likely to lose elections is not the issue; the underlying problem of group egos and hindrances to women’s capabilities is the real issue. This includes instances where certain women’s groups also add to these obstacles. In the realm of politics, power dynamics are apparent, predominantly favoring men. Women who aspire to claim this power encounter resistance and struggle against societal biases. Becoming a politician is not merely a matter of entering public life, it is also about managing personal and societal expectations simultaneously.

Two primary reasons contribute to women’s reluctance to engage in politics. Firstly, election aversion arises due to divergent political ambitions. Secondly, voter prejudice against female candidates, fueled by social bias, hinders progress. Many qualified women are forced to remain inactive due to these challenges. While some women accept the challenge and engage in elections, they often face limited success. It is imperative to critically analyze the root causes and devise strategies to foster the development of women’s political careers in alignment with their aspirations. 

It is clear that our Constitution seeks to ensure equal rights for all individuals. It guarantees fundamental rights, including equality and the right to a dignified life, for every citizen. However, when women endeavor to advocate for the enforcement of these rights and challenge the status quo, their actions often encounter resistance within society.

I am not implying that this sentiment applies universally, but a significant number of individuals are quick to cast doubt on women’s capabilities, often baselessly attributing any perceived shortcomings to their partners. This raises a fundamental question: What gives anyone the audacity to pass judgment without evidence? Furthermore, who granted them the authority to intrude into others’ private lives? Such behavior is not only objectionable but also undermines the dignity of those involved and tarnishes their reputation. Tragically, many individuals, often self-proclaimed, are not hesitant to label women as commodities to be blamed and criticized at will. This prevailing atmosphere dissuades women, particularly those from the grassroots, from embracing the role of change-makers. They weigh the potential risks against the benefits and find little incentive to undertake such challenges. It’s important to recognize that even women in higher positions face similar predicaments. There have been instances where a woman’s association with a high-ranking individual has led to accusations of direct or indirect corruption. Even esteemed figures like Hisila Yami, Arzu Deuba, Radhika Shakya, and our former president have not been spared such accusations.

This phenomenon raises the question: Why do people feel compelled to meddle in others’ private affairs, often overlooking the contributions these women have made, especially when their partners were actively involved in democratic struggles. Regardless of their individual achievements as engineers, teachers, doctors, social workers and more, they are often overshadowed by their companions’ identities. Is this not a form of violence against them too? It is imperative for society to shift its perspective, acknowledge women’s autonomy and capabilities, and stop unjustly blaming and interfering in their personal lives. A true understanding of equality requires recognizing and respecting each individual’s distinct contributions and potential. Only through such recognition can we truly foster an environment where women are empowered to pursue their aspirations without unwarranted hindrances.

Numerous women have distinguished themselves as political trailblazers and adept decision-makers in the present era. Many have showcased their talents and proficiency. Take, for instance, the accomplishments of individuals like Shanta Thapaliya, Lily Thapa, Sapana Pradhan Malla and Geeta Saungaula. These exceptional women have demonstrated their capacity to dismantle barriers, foster an environment conducive to creativity, and challenge social norms within their respective spheres. Despite these achievements, it is disheartening to witness how society tends to focus solely on their shortcomings, rendering their accomplishments as women secondary.

The paradox is evident: On the one hand, women possess the capability to excel in their roles and responsibilities, regardless of their field, experience, education, or personal contributions. Yet, on the other hand, they themselves often contribute to their own limitations in decision-making and other domains. This is not only a phenomenon within politics but also extends to other realms where opportunities are provided by both the government and society. When a few women manage to reach leadership positions, the need for an enabling environment and a supportive pathway for others are often forgotten.

Recognizing the critical role that women play in shaping policies, it is imperative to enhance their representation across all levels of political power structures and opportunities. Women occupying such roles should comprehend the ripple effects of their presence and advocate for their rights and authority without compromising their principles. Collaboratively investigating concealed truths and collectively asserting their presence in politics and decision-making are vital steps toward empowerment. However, this journey requires an understanding of individual identity, as intelligence alone might become a burden without a clear sense of self.

The government must adopt innovative policies and programs with robust implementation strategies. Establishing dedicated evaluation committees at various levels of governance can ensure effective execution. Political parties should examine their internal structures and processes, eliminating any form of discrimination against women’s participation. This might involve incorporating gender perspectives into party agendas and ensuring equal representation of women in leadership roles. Recognizing women as essential components of the political framework and acknowledging their voices as crucial to democracy’s strength can pave the way for an equitable, developed, and harmonious society.

The media can play a significant role in changing perceptions. By highlighting women’s accomplishments as decision-makers through feature articles and diverse perspectives, the media can empower women and foster political interest. When women see themselves depicted as capable leaders, they are more likely to engage in politics and seize opportunities without fear. Unity among women of different backgrounds is paramount. By amplifying a collective voice, women can dismantle barriers and create a more inclusive society. This unity will pave the way for meaningful participation in political and decision-making processes.

Summing up, a multifaceted approach is necessary for women’s meaningful participation in political and decision-making processes and their empowerment. Government policies, political party reforms, media representation, and women’s unity all contribute to shaping a more inclusive and equal society. By breaking down barriers and fostering an enabling environment, women can take their rightful place as catalysts for change in various fields, including in politics and decision-making.

The author is a Kathmandu-based advocate

inDrive has been operating in Nepal since 2022 and has become one of the popular ride-sharing services. The founder and CEO of inDrive, Arsen Tomsky, was in Nepal a few days earlier for the launch of his biography, inDriver, now available in Nepali too. ApEx caught up with him to talk about his book and business. Excerpts:

How do you feel about your first book launch in Nepal?

I am delighted. The foundation and growth of inDrive is not just a professional endeavor for me, but a deeply personal and emotional journey that has shaped my life, and writing about its development has been transformative, and I am thrilled to invite everyone to embark on this adventure with me.

What was the inspiration behind writing the book?

I wanted to share my journey with readers. With this book, I seek to motivate people to develop themselves and the world around them in any circumstance. In my case, challenging injustices have become an important driver for the foundation and development of the application.

Why did you choose to publish your biography in Nepali?

The book is already available in English, Spanish and Portuguese. It is now out in the Nepali language. The book is not for any business purposes. Rather we have planned to donate these books in schools and libraries just to share my journey and motivate others.

Nepal has no legal provision for ride-sharing services. Still, you launched inDrive here. What made you do so?

We follow a common industry practice of testing new markets through research and development activities. In Nepal, we are currently offering the inDrive app to citizens without charging any fees or commissions. This helps us understand the market and its potential before we officially launch our services. We are in touch with relevant government bodies and are committed to getting the necessary documents and approvals required by the law before the official launch. 

Yes, currently there are no ride-hailing laws as this is a recent development and in most countries the laws are being formulated. However, the concept of ride-sharing is not alien to Nepal. There are different service providers providing some form of platform-based services. In addition, the rise and need for such services have been acknowledged by courts and authorities.
inDrive is dedicated to fighting injustice and upholding transparency and fairness in the mobility and transportation space. The inDrive is focused on emerging economies where there are injustices to solve. The test run conducted in Nepal has made us more confident that the people would support our service.

inDrive has gained plenty of popularity in Nepal. Data suggests that it was last year’s most downloaded ride-sharing app here. What are the company’s future plans for Nepal?

inDrive arrived in Nepal in Q2, 2022 and since then thousands of drivers have been using inDrive on a daily basis and earning money with our platform. This year we are collaborating with NRS Sports Foundation to support a new initiative aimed at developing the running culture in Nepal and nurturing long-distance runners to participate in international running championships. The training program will be conducted within the Kathmandu Valley as well as in Thimi, Hetauda, Butwal and Pokhara, with plans to expand to other cities in the future. To promote young and underprivileged runners, inDrive will support more than 300 athletes by providing slots in Kathmandu Marathon which is scheduled for Oct 14.

We also run multiple initiatives supporting startups and gender equality in the tech industry around the globe. Very soon we will be announcing next year's traditional Aurora Tech Award in Nepal and in other countries.

What is your message to new entrepreneurs who are willing to start new ventures?

To other entrepreneurs with dreams of taking a startup into the global market, my advice is: We call ourselves underdogs because we are from a remote place. We didn’t have access to knowledge, experience, technology, investments, or other professionals. We had low chances to build something, but we did it. We focused on our goals and our mission to challenge injustice. We hope our example will inspire millions of other underdogs around the world.

What is inDrive’s goal for this year?

Our main objectives are to expand our business into new countries and grow in the markets we 

currently operate in, launching new verticals including freight, courier delivery and others to offer more equitable services. Alongside this, we prioritize enhancing customer experience and ensuring safety for all users. 

We are continuing our journey of empowering communities through our inVision programs, where we support access to education, arts, sports and science. 

To uphold our commitment to safety, we have introduced the Safety Pact—an initiative empowering users with dedicated features, tips, and a code of conduct for drivers and passengers. We promote mutual respect and have a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination.  By pursuing expansion, growth, customer satisfaction, and safety, we are well-positioned to continue delivering great results and making a positive impact in the communities we serve.