Nepal’s government has been increasing its spending on education, recognizing its importance in the country’s development. In 2021, the government allocated 12.82% of its total expenditure to education, a 1.36% increase from 2020 ¹.
Education Expenditure as a Percentage of GDP
Nepal’s education expenditure as a percentage of GDP has also been increasing. In 2018, it reached 4.43%, up from 2.89% in 1998 ². This increase indicates the government’s commitment to investing in education.
Breakdown of Education Expenditure
The government’s education expenditure can be broken down into three categories: primary, secondary, and tertiary education. In 2015, primary education accounted for 53.77% of the government’s education expenditure, while secondary education accounted for 33.32%, and tertiary education accounted for 10.80% ².
Challenges and Future Directions
Despite the government’s efforts to increase education spending, challenges persist. Nepal’s education system faces issues such as inadequate infrastructure, shortage of qualified teachers, and disparities in access to education. 25To address these challenges, the government should prioritize investments in education infrastructure, teacher training, and programs that promote equitable access to education. Additionally, the government should explore innovative solutions, such as public-private partnerships and technology-based learning initiatives, to improve the quality and accessibility of education in Nepal.
Conclusion
The Nepalese government’s increasing spending on education is a positive step towards developing the country’s human capital. However, challenges remain, and the government must prioritize strategic investments in education to ensure that all Nepalis have access to quality education.
