KATHMANDU: Educational consultancy operators staged a protest in Putalisadak, Kathmandu, on Friday, demanding that the government withdraw what they described as restrictive provisions in the Educational Counseling, Language Teaching, and Preparation Classes (Operation and Management) Regulations, 2026.

The demonstration, organized by the Joint Struggle Committee of Educational Counseling Entrepreneurs, was held amid concerns that some provisions could severely disrupt the educational counseling business. Protesters carried placards reading, “Education is a service, not a crime,” “Correct the errors of the Educational Counseling Regulations 2026 immediately,” and “Let’s develop the country as an international education hub.”

Educational Consultancy Association of Nepal (ECAN) Chairperson Rajendra Baral said the disputed provisions could threaten the sustainability of the sector, prompting operators to take to the streets.

The protesters demanded the withdrawal of provisions requiring annual license renewal, ministry approval to organize educational fairs and seminars, and permission to conduct programs even within office premises. They argued that the regulations impose unnecessary administrative burdens on educational consultancies.

More in Photos: