Let experts examine

As reported by Shashi Dhungel (THT, May 27) Bhaktapur Palace unveils hidden paintings deemed precious in historical and cultural terms dating to the era of King Bhupatindra Malla. The art overlaid by subsequent decorative paints of the ages would be difficult to be uncovered and salvaged. Recent renovation measures under the joint sponsorship of the

Department of Archaeology and Bhaktapur Municipality are understood to have come across: Cement material being used for strengthening the wall (possibly after 1934 earthquake). But it dampens the wood sporting the paintings. The renovation workers are confronted with complications, which, if not examined on time by experts of modern restorative

technology, might only encourage the precious assets getting lost forever.

The Palace is already included in the the World Heritage List. The concerned authorities must request UNESCO for a visiting team of experts to examine the complex issue and avail modern technology and sophisticated appliances to restore the paintings in their original dimension. It is time for us to act realistically for conservation, protection, renovation and restoration of the historic art.

Chiranjeevi Vaidya, Vaidya Sadan, Maharajganj Chakrapath

HS board

This is in reference to your news item published on May 26, “Call to revamp HS education system”. The present curriculum of HSEB is not just marks oriented and impractical but also

obsolete. The curriculum does not cater to the needs of an average Nepali. The education system provides hardly or no scope for vocational training and personality development

of students.

Most of the government institutions misuse their precious time and resources while the private institutions make bookworms out of the students. The need of the day is to introduce

practicality in education. The examinations should not be for name only but the evaluation method should make students realise their potentials and develop confidence in them. The world is fast shrinking and our system of education should be incorporated accordingly. I hope the timely thought of the educationalists evokes the concerned authorities to bring some changes.

Shikha Dhakal,

Kendriya Vidyalaya

Delayed

The integrated curriculum of the Science and Management faculties for Higher Secondary Education Board and TU is unlikely to take off this year too. New changes have to be

incorporated in the existing syllabus and all other groundwork performed. But all that is likely to be an even bigger burden for students already weighed down by a voluminous syllabus. All this indicates that the officials are not serious about reforming the education sector. Why can’t they decide after so many months whether or not to introduce the modified syllabus in schools? A member of the task force responsible for formulating the integrated curriculum was right when he said that a National Curriculum Development Centre to formulate an

integrated curriculum must be formed. The whole syllabus must be carefully reviewed and the new curriculum introduced in schools at the earliest.

Students will be relieved to have a common study matter.

Sakcham Rai, via e-mail