The Backwardness of Education in Nepal: A System Stuck in Memorization

The Backwardness of Education in Nepal: A System Stuck in Memorization

Education is considered the foundation for the development of any nation, yet in Nepal, it remains outdated and rigid, especially in the context of the 21st century. Despite global advancements in teaching methodologies, digital learning, and practical education, Nepal’s education system continues to rely heavily on traditional paper-based examinations. This system emphasizes rote memorization rather than understanding, application, or innovation—especially concerning for technical fields like Information Technology (IT) and Engineering.

Outdated Examination System

One of the major flaws of the current education system in Nepal is the over-reliance on written, memory-based exams. Regardless of the subject—be it science, mathematics, IT, or even engineering—students are evaluated based on how well they can memorize and reproduce information during a three-hour written exam. There is little to no scope for using practical tools, online resources, or collaborative problem-solving techniques, which are essential in real-world applications.

For example, IT and Engineering, which are fields rooted in experimentation, coding, design, and problem-solving, are still taught and tested using printed textbooks and hand-written answers. Students are often judged on their ability to memorize definitions, write theoretical answers, or draw diagrams, rather than being asked to build projects, write working code, or use real software tools.

Lack of Practical Exposure

A major issue resulting from this outdated model is that students graduate with degrees but lack the practical skills needed in the job market. Most engineering and IT graduates struggle to meet the expectations of employers both in Nepal and abroad. They are unfamiliar with current technologies, tools, and trends because their education never truly exposed them to hands-on learning. Instead of being innovators, they are trained to become exam-passers.

No Encouragement for Critical Thinking

When students are taught only to memorize and not to question, analyze, or innovate, the result is a workforce that follows instructions without asking “why” or “how.” This hinders creativity, problem-solving abilities, and critical thinking skills. It also creates fear of failure, because the system does not reward trying and failing—it only rewards remembering and writing the “correct” answer.

Resistance to Change

Despite the global shift towards digital education, online learning platforms, project-based assessments, and competency-based evaluations, Nepal’s education system has been slow to evolve. One of the reasons is a lack of infrastructure, but another big factor is the mindset of educational institutions and governing bodies, which often resist change. There is also little investment in teacher training, digital tools, or curriculum redesign.

The Way Forward

To improve education in Nepal, especially in technical fields, several changes must be made:

1. Adopt Practical-Based Assessments: Evaluate students through real-world projects, coding tasks, and problem-solving exercises.

2. Incorporate Digital Learning: Use online platforms, simulations, and software tools as part of teaching and exams.

3. Train Teachers: Provide proper training and resources so teachers can adapt to modern teaching methods.

4. Revise Curriculum: Focus on critical thinking, collaboration, and skill development rather than just theory.

5. Encourage Innovation: Create a learning environment where curiosity and experimentation are encouraged, not punished.

Conclusion

Nepal has immense potential, with a young population hungry for knowledge and success. But as long as the education system remains stuck in outdated methods focused on memorization and paper exams, we are holding back generations from achieving their full potential. It is high time for Nepal to shift from theory to practice, from rote learning to real learning, and from examination to education.