Historic Achievement

A recent result for the examination of section officers under legal service, published by the Public Service Commission (PSC), must be delightful news for all Nepalis, the bureaucracy and governance sector in particular. The result was terrific indeed, as 86 percent of the passed students were women. It is a historic achievement - a true reflection of women's educational attainment and empowerment in Nepal. The success obviously warrants celebration.  

Among 44 persons who made it through the PSC exam for section officer, 38 were women. The PSC exam demands dogged perseverance from anyone aspiring for a job in public service. It is the most trusted and credible institution in Nepal that selects the prospective persons through a rigorous selection process for public service, ranging from bureaucracy to judiciary. The present result, therefore, reflects women's persistence, passion and patience - all aimed at achieving the goal. Similarly, another message is that women students are excelling in higher education, doing better than their male colleagues. Also, Nepali educational institutes are gradually emerging as centres of excellence. 

At a time when a large section of Plus Two graduates is going abroad for higher study, this incident can be a strong reminder that there are good opportunities for law graduates within Nepal. The colleges, which have been training their students for future judges, attorneys, and legal experts, must have been proud of this result.  The investment in legal education seems to be paying handsome returns. 

Nepal's entire governance system, ranging from bureaucracy to politics and other institutions, is plagued by male domination. In this context, the achievements of women in the legal field not only help systematically hit the patriarchal Nepali system but also prompt actions. In the judiciary, most of the judges, attorneys and lawyers are males, perpetuating gender stereotyping. Now, one can imagine how gender sensitive justice will be served in the days to come. Moreover, this result functions as an inspiration and encouragement for thousands of other law graduates to concentrate on preparing for the PSC exam. 

Once such hordes of women enter the public service for some years and work honestly for the country and people, it will undoubtedly result in a radical change in the perspective towards women and the achievement of a balanced approach. Researchers and rights defenders have argued that, apart from having an inclusive system in place in the wake of federalism, the policy and lawmaking are yet to be women-friendly. Once this success is replicated in other arenas as well, it would ensure synergic impact. However, we cannot ignore the system - the proportional representation and inclusion - that helped encourage more women to secure the achievement. 

Now, the new ones in the public service need to be provided with a proper work atmosphere. There is a vast difference between study and practice.  Proper pre-service and in-service training are helpful to adjust them to the office, as well as to their roles and responsibilities. Cooperative and friendly work atmosphere instils confidence, but a politicised public service not only derails personal ambitions but also negatively impacts entire career and service delivery. The new officers, therefore, need to stay away from the ill influence of politics and vested interests.