Kathmandu: The CPN-UML has appointed senior leader Raghuji Pant as the new Minister of Education, following the resignation of Bidhya Bhattarai earlier this week. Pant is scheduled to take the oath of office and secrecy on Thursday, according to a source at the Prime Minister’s Office.

The ministerial post became vacant after Bhattarai stepped down on Monday amid intense nationwide protests by school teachers. Demonstrators have been calling for urgent reforms to the Education Act, improved working conditions, and stronger job security.

Facing increasing public pressure and mounting criticism over the government’s handling of the protests, Bhattarai’s resignation prompted a swift reshuffle in the cabinet. Party officials have confirmed that Pant’s appointment has already been finalized.

Pant is expected to face immediate challenges upon assuming office, as talks between the government and protesting teachers remain unresolved.