KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 6

Minister of Education, Science and Technology Raghuji Pant has emphasized prioritizing non-formal education to link traditional knowledge, skills, and arts with life, under the National Qualification Framework.

Speaking at the National Non-Formal Education Conference, jointly organized by the ministry, the Education Human Resource Development Center, and UNESCO, Pant stressed the importance of integrating lifelong learning with traditional skills and addressing challenges posed by climate change and modernity.

He said, 'We have immense traditional knowledge, but the main challenge is how to connect education and skills with life. Formal education alone cannot address lifelong learning and conservation.'

The conference also featured presentations and group discussions on digital literacy, adult learning in the digital age, and the role of community learning centers. UNESCO Representative Jaco du Toit noted Nepal's progress in literacy but called for greater equity and inclusion to reach marginalized groups.

Education experts, NPC members, and youth participants stressed that non-formal education must be strengthened to support Nepal's long-term development vision and ensure no one is left behind.