Himalayan News Service

Kathmandu, April 14:

The United Nations has urged everyone concerned to let schools be zone of peace in 2062 BS. “Let 2062 BS be a year when children can learn, grow and play at schools without fear and disruption,” stated a press statement of the UN System in Nepal. It said no child should be prevented from enrolling in school because of geographic, economic, cultural or social barriers, or because of fear. It is vital that all children receive the foundation of education. The UN System reminded all duty bearers of their obligations to children under the Convention

on the Rights of the Child, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights,

as well as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. “All children have the right to education

— in peace,” it said. The UN System notes that April 15 is the start of the new school year, when thousands of children should be enrolled in schools.

The UN System also applauded the continuing efforts by parents and parents’ and teachers’ organisations, governmental and non-governmental organisations and others that work to increase school enrolment and retention. With their support, the goal “Education for All” can be achieved in Nepal. It further asked all parties to help ensure that all schools — both public and private — remain open, welcoming all children without disruption to teaching. “All children and teachers should feel comfortable and safe in schools, free from harassment; all schools and their grounds should remain free from weapons and explosive devices and all schools should remain free from any political or military activity.” It said the government should ensure supply of books, and teachers should reach schools without impediment and children should not be taken for political indoctrination or recruitment, nor should they be harassed as suspected insurgents or placed in preventive detention.