KATHMANDU: Education, Science and Technology Minister Sasmit Pokharel has urged teachers to maintain professionalism in educational institutions and stay away from political activities, saying those interested in politics should leave teaching.

Responding to lawmakers’ questions in a meeting of the Education, Health and Information Technology Committee at Singha Durbar on Tuesday, he said the government is committed to improving weaknesses in the education sector and ensuring a disciplined academic environment by ending political interference in schools.

Pokharel also said the academic session for this year began on April 28 due to fuel shortages and a Cabinet decision, while classes resumed from May 4 following an interim order from the Supreme Court that led to adjustments in admission and academic schedules.

He added that regulation of school fees falls under the jurisdiction of local governments and coordination is ongoing in this regard.

The minister warned that schools charging fees beyond prescribed limits will face action.