Nepal Grapples with Student Migration: An In-depth Study Proposed by Education Minister

Kathmandu, October 4, 2023 - The concerning rise in students leaving Nepal for education abroad has caught the attention of the country's top educational brass. Minister of Education, Science and Technology, Ashok Kumar Rai, in a recent meeting, emphasized the need for a comprehensive study on the subject.

Key Points:

• Addressing the Migration Concern: On October 3, while discussing the Nepal University Bill at the Education, Health and Information Technology Committee meeting, Minister Rai acknowledged the growing trend of students seeking education outside Nepal. "Let's study about the migration of students abroad. I remember that I had to study it deeply," Rai noted.

• Revamping the Curriculum: Rai highlighted that the Nepal University has revamped its curriculum, which he believes could deter students from looking for opportunities abroad. "When such a university designs the curriculum in a new way and the new team works with new enthusiasm, there is a possibility of stopping the students from going abroad," he stated.

• Adding More Universities: Minister Rai revealed plans to expand the nation's educational horizon by adding more universities. The initiative's goal is to curtail student migration by offering them world-class facilities and courses in Nepal itself.

• Political Interference a Hurdle: The Education Minister candidly spoke about the excessive political interference in the current university system. He expressed concerns over the over-politicization in the present universities.

• A New Vision for Nepal University: Rai gave insights into the Nepal University Bill, conceived by a team of intellectuals who returned to Nepal after forgoing lucrative opportunities abroad. The bill envisions a university distinct from the current system, with unique characteristics and a break from the prevalent chancellor and vice-chancellor patterns. Rai hopes that the new structure would reduce political intervention, addressing a longstanding grievance.

The wave of student migration abroad has undoubtedly triggered alarms in Nepal's educational circles. Minister Rai's call for an in-depth study, coupled with the forthcoming changes in the education sector, shows Nepal's commitment to keeping its brightest minds at home. The road ahead is filled with challenges, but with dedicated efforts, Nepal aims to offer education that stands on par with global standards.