Distance education

The article “Open Education: Government’s misplaced priorities” published in THT on

November 22 was a relevant one. Distance education is beneficial to a country like Nepal where a lot of people do not find enough time to attend regular classes. I agree with Dr Mana P Wagley that the authorities have not taken distance education seriously. Distance education is most appropriate for those who have missed earlier opportunities for education or are working professionals. Because of its cost effectiveness, flexibility and mass enrolments, it can help in generating human resources.

Given appropriate eligibility criteria, the degrees from distance learning system could be made equivalent to those of regular recognised universities. Indira Gandhi National Open University, a government of India university, created by an act of parliament, is a good

example. Since its establishment 20 years ago, it has provided education to over 1.3 million people. It is also recognised by all the Commonwealth nations. Provided we also do the same soon, we too can have the venue for studying while working or just studying on our own. The government should take steps in this direction as soon as possible.

Sushil Bista, Sanepa

Dark clouds

Shailendra Kumar Upadhyay’s article “Dhaka summit” published in THT on November 21 only gave some stereotyped opinion and suggestions. It seems that SAARC summits have just become a formality. Every summit ends by hailing its achievements but when it comes to

implementation, the achievement is almost nil. SAARC countries are actually caught up in their internal problems. We too are stuck with our own political crisis. The King says that his actions are aimed at creating a democratic environment in the country, but the present government is just trying to nip democracy in the bud. The people have no trust left in the political parties since everyone knows that they are just a power-hungry lot. The Maoists’ commitment to lay down arms too is doubtful. Thus, the dark clouds of disaster are hovering over the political firmament of the nation.

Thakur Lamsal, via e-mail

Clean notes

I have heard that Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) is launching an initiative called the “Clean Currency

Policy” under which writing on currency notes will be banned. This is a very good step against pranksters who disfigure paper money by scribbling on it. First and foremost, the NRB should note that bank-tellers themselves write all sorts of things on the banknotes all the time. It should begin educating their own staff before blaming the general people for their lack of “awareness.”

Bhai Kaji, Kathmandu

Improve it

It is unfortunate that the condition of Sagarmatha Zonal Hospital, Rajbiraj, is deteriorating by the day. Even though it is the largest hospital of the region, patients do not receive medical services in time as there is an acute shortage of doctors. The hospital administration should take immediate steps to solve these problems. Also, the areas surrounding the hospital should be cleaned regularly.

Vijay Kumar Yadav, Rajbiraj