KATHMANDU: Though a comparatively higher pass percentage in SLC examinations this year paints a rosy picture of the school education, the dark sides abound. Most notably, the unstable political situation, marked by frequent bandhs, strikes and state of lawlessness, has left little enthusiasm among the graduates to pursue higher education.

Talking to The Himalayan Times today, Ruchin Khadka, an SLC graduate from Satya Sai Sikshya Sadan,Tokha, Kathmandu, said the political instability in the country had crippled every sector.

“Teachers are agitating for their rights. The HSEB has been padlocked for a week but no concerned sector seems to be serious about resolving these issues,” he said. “Major political parties are busy trading blames instead of seeking a way out of the impasse. I don’t think we will be able to gain the desired education in a country where strikes and bandhs occur twice a week.”

Rima Karki, a distinction holder, agrees with Ruchin. She said, “Education is the most important sector, but which is also the neglected one.” Her plan to join a TU-affiliated college for the Proficiency Certificate Level was shattered by the university’s decision to phase out the programme effective from this year. She believes that intermediate degree at the largest state-owned university is affordable for middle class.

Mandip Bhattarai, an SLC graduate from Yuyutshu English Secondary School, Kapan, said the government should ensure security in the institutions to facilitate the study of children.