Kathmandu: The ongoing agitation by the National Teachers’ Federation, which began on Chaitra 20, may be drawing to a close as talks with the government enter a critical phase. Teachers and government officials held late-night discussions on Tuesday, with both sides expressing optimism that a concrete agreement will be reached today.

Despite over four weeks of protest, which severely disrupted community schools, halted SEE paper evaluation, and delayed the Grade 12 exam, the movement appears to be losing momentum. The number of protesting teachers has decreased significantly, with many reportedly returning home due to financial constraints.

Teachers have been demanding the implementation of the Education Act, fulfillment of previous agreements, and the addressing of several key issues, including:

-Salary security for school staff and ECD teachers

-Inclusion in the social security fund

-Remote area allowances

-Adjustment of grades and merit-based promotions

-Healthcare concessions for teachers

-Uniform pay between Secondary School Level I and II

The Grade 12 exam, already postponed once, is now in jeopardy again if the dispute isn’t resolved imminently. Originally set for Baisakh 11, the exam was pushed to Baisakh 21, but further delays are possible.

Education Minister Raghuji Pant, along with Deputy Prime Minister Bishnu Poudel and Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, participated in Tuesday night’s two-and-a-half-hour meeting with Federation leaders, including President Laxmikishore Subedi.

Teachers are scheduled to hold internal consultations this morning, followed by a three-hour street protest starting at 11 am. Further negotiations with the government are expected after 2 pm.

Both sides have signaled that today's dialogue could bring an end to the nearly month-long disruption that has impacted thousands of students nationwide.