Nepal Education Minister Commits to Prioritizing Mental Health

Nepal’s Education and Sports Minister, Sashmit Pokharel, has expressed his commitment to prioritizing mental health in the education sector. Speaking at a discussion held at the Ministry of Education and Sports in Kathmandu, Pokharel emphasized the importance of addressing mental health issues in schools and universities.

The discussion, which was attended by lawmakers, psychologists, mental health experts, and students, focused on how to effectively institutionalize mental health services in educational institutions, address existing challenges, and raise awareness at the community level.

Participants stressed the need for a clear policy, programs, and resources to prevent, identify, and manage mental health issues in the education system. They also highlighted the importance of recognizing mental health problems as being as significant as physical health issues.

Minister Pokharel acknowledged that mental health is a serious and sensitive issue in today’s society. He assured that the ministry would seriously study the suggestions and experiences shared by experts and stakeholders. Pokharel also expressed his commitment to incorporating mental health into the education policy and making necessary policy reforms for long-term solutions.

He emphasized the need to raise awareness about mental health among students, teachers, and parents. The minister also informed that the ministry is positive about expanding counseling services in schools and universities, conducting awareness programs, and making necessary arrangements.

Lawmaker Kranti Shikha Dhital expressed her confidence that the ministry would take necessary initiatives to address mental health issues in a structured and policy-based manner. She thanked the ministry for organizing a timely discussion on this critical issue.

The ministry’s advisor, Shailesh Jha, stated that the ministry is committed to addressing mental health issues seriously and exploring policy-based initiatives in this area.

During the discussion, participants suggested making mental health services easily accessible in schools and higher education institutions, managing trained counselors, incorporating mental health-related content in the curriculum, and expanding awareness campaigns at the community level.