The open education and distance learning programme that the government has decided to launch from the next academic year promises to benefit a large number of students. Those pupils who have had a gap of two years after passing grade eight are eligible to opt for this programme, introduced for the first time in the country. The good news is that they will ultimately be allowed to sit for the SLC examination. It is thus a unique opportunity, especially for those who have somehow been unable to complete their high school education for one reason or the other. The Open School Education Programme will be run in one school in each development region. According to the officials, the pilot project will benefit at least 175 school dropouts at present.

Learning through distance education has become a popular practice worldwide. Such a method of teaching, in which students make use of reference materials and audio-video tapes, is particularly useful for a country like Nepal where a bulk of the children toil as the family’s bread earners and therefore cannot attend school full time. But there is a problem: What if the whole business turns into a moneymaking racket? In all probability, illegal means of obtaining certificates would come into play. The authorised agencies concerned should thus prepare to ensure that all unwarranted practices like buying and selling of certificates are stopped, while a certain standard of education is maintained.