Education in Nepal

During “Vedic or Pauranic Era” in Nepal, education was highly influenced by the religion. The main emphasis used to be spiritual growth of people. Education was only accessible to those belonging to three “Varnas” or the castes: “Brahmin, Chhetriya and Vaishya.” It was not accessible to those who belong to “Sudra” caste. Then the children used to stay in “Gurukull” for a fixed period of time in order to gain knowledge and skills under the guidance of their “Gurus”. They used to comply with moral, spiritual and practical value of the society. Teacher used to act like guardian and discipline was the most for the student. The first lesson, the child has to know was the knowledge about humility which has been reflected in the following Sanskrit verse:

The Brahmins used to have a strict rule and control over education. Education was organized and managed entirely by the private sectors. The individual or social organization developed a trusty environment, which used to be the main source for their “Gurukull.”.

The Brahmins used to solely decide what to teach to whom and who is eligible for that education. However, women were allowed to study “Veda”. After the completion of their education they will be provided with option. They had choice to enter family life (“Grahastha”) or remain single and preach Veda. Our Eastern society proudly remembers name of two prominent female Vedic literati: Gargi and Mayitreyee. However, by 500 BC female education was set back due to a gradual reduction of the age at marriage.

The content of the syllybus used to vary depending upon the caste of the learner. Different learner used to have definite functions to carry out in their society. There, the Brahmins were responsible to teach or impart knowledge, Kchhetriyas were responsible for ruling who were supposed to protect the State or nation and Vaisyas were responsible for development of business and trade within the nation. The main purpose or aim was to fully equip every individual according to their skills, competiencies and knowledge. The teachers or lecturer were regarded very high , next to the God by the society, which has been reflected in Saskrit language.

English translation: Salutation to the noble Guru, who is Brahma, Vishnu and Maheswara, the direct Parabrahma, the Supreme Reality.

The Sanskrit language was the medium for teaching in the ancient times. The dialogues, discussion, demonstration and presentation were employed in their education. Those who have more knowledge or skills were encouraged and employed to teach that knowledge and skills to other students or group of members. Giving logical answer, individual capacity of debating and putting forward the knowledge into practice were the main criteria where successes were measured.

English Translation: Teacher! You are my mother and father; you are my brother and companion; you alone are knowledge and wealth. O Lord, you are everything to me.

The main aim of the education was self-realization. It was for the purpose of liberalization of soul and its unity with the supreme.  The knowledge was declared as the medium through which a person can pass darkness to light.