Nepal shifts to two‑tier school system, merging primary and secondary levels

The Nepalese government approved the 10th amendment to the Education Regulations, redesignating school education into Basic Education (grades 1‑8) and Secondary Education (grades 9‑12). The change aligns the legal framework with the 2015 Constitution, which had already endorsed a two‑tier model, and removes the outdated four‑tier structure that distinguished primary, lower secondary, secondary and higher secondary levels.

Joint Secretary Shiva Sapkota said the reform paves the way for future adjustments in teacher recruitment, promotions, transfers, and school management, and strengthens the role of local governments in planning and resource allocation. While existing teachers' service conditions remain unchanged for now, the new structure is expected to streamline classification and eventually be incorporated into the upcoming School Education Act.