Jun 04, Kathmandu - The government has introduced a new proposal to impose exorbitant deposits, licensing fees, and renewal charges on institutions providing educational consulting, language testing, and language training services.

Under the draft Schedule-2 classification, institutions offering educational consulting services will now be required to deposit a hefty deposit of Rs. 2.5 million. This deposit regulation is set to apply not only to central offices but also to regional branches, which must also pay Rs. 2.5 million each.

The licensing fee for educational consulting services is proposed at Rs. 50,000, with an additional Rs. 20,000 for regional offices. The annual renewal fee is also set at Rs. 50,000, plus Rs. 20,000 for regional branches. Critics argue that these steep fees threaten to push small and new entrepreneurs out of the market.

The proposed rates also extend to language testing services, which are crucial for students planning to study abroad. The deposit for language testing is proposed at Rs. 5 lakh, with licensing and renewal fees of Rs. 15,000 and Rs. 5,000 respectively. Similarly, preparatory courses for various exams and general language training will require a Rs. 1 lakh deposit, with licensing and renewal fees of Rs. 10,000 and Rs. 5,000.

Furthermore, the government plans to include educational fairs, exhibitions, and seminars within a hefty tax framework. Domestic organizers would need to pay Rs. 25,000 per day in municipal areas and Rs. 10,000 in rural municipalities for permits, though deposits and renewal fees would not apply. For foreign organizers, a daily fee of $1,500 USD is proposed.

These proposed financial burdens aim to boost revenue and regulate the consulting sector; however, critics warn that such measures will ultimately burden students and parents, as consulting firms are expected to pass on these costs. The increased deposits and fees are likely to force consulting agencies to raise their service charges, directly impacting Nepali students seeking higher education abroad.

Amidst a widespread economic slowdown, stakeholders argue that this policy of imposing millions in deposits and steep fees is shortsighted and counterproductive, risking further financial hardship for students and their families.