Kathmandu, August 28
The government has directed all universities in Nepal to suspend examinations scheduled from August 29, citing the disruption caused by natural disasters to the lives of students, parents and the general public.
Education and Sports Minister Sasmit Pokharel issued the directive to university vice-chancellors by exercising the authority granted under the respective university laws.
Under the directive, all examinations scheduled from August 29 must be postponed. Universities have been asked to publish revised examination schedules at an appropriate time.
Universities have also been instructed to arrange re-examinations at a suitable time for students who were unable to sit for examinations scheduled for August 28 due to various circumstances.
Minister Pokharel has also asked universities to suspend non-essential gatherings, workshops, seminars, assemblies and other collective events.
Universities have been directed to maintain regular contact and coordination with disaster-affected students and parents through the universities and concerned educational institutions, and provide necessary support and facilitation.
They have also been asked to arrange psychosocial counselling for affected students and, where necessary, their parents. Universities have been told to take necessary measures to ensure students can continue their education and receive appropriate academic support in light of the disruption caused by the disaster.
Pokharel urged university officials to take immediate decisions to implement these measures, citing the sensitivity of the current situation.
He also called on university authorities to give the highest priority to the safety and welfare of students, parents, teachers and staff during the difficult period caused by the disasters.
