PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal's Directive to Pokhara University: Championing Quality Education in Nepal
Addressing the challenges faced by higher education in Nepal, Prime Minister and Chancellor of Pokhara University, Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" urged the need for universities to enhance their appeal to students. In his keynote speech at the 23rd Senate meeting of Pokhara University, he highlighted that the universities' legitimacy would only be affirmed if they can retain a high number of students pursuing higher education each year.
The Rising Trend of Studying Abroad
There has been an evident surge in Nepali students' inclination towards studying abroad. The Prime Minister stressed on the critical need for Nepali universities to deeply introspect this matter. The 'unnatural attraction' of studying overseas points towards a vital need for domestic universities to bolster their educational quality, attractiveness, and relevance.
Upcoming Federal Education Act
The Federal Education Act, currently tabled in the Federal Parliament, has been prioritized by the government. The Act, according to the Prime Minister, holds the potential to address and resolve myriad challenges in the education sector. The government is making all possible efforts to ensure its swift passage.
Review of the University's Strategic Plan
While appreciating the content and action plans of the university's strategic plan, Prime Minister Dahal also advocated for a thorough examination of past activities and their effectiveness. Topics such as the feasibility of implementation and the risks associated with these activities need to be seriously discussed.
Academic Calendar: A Must for All Universities
A pressing issue is the escalating number of students opting to study abroad. To mitigate this, the Prime Minister has emphasized on the importance of universities to establish and strictly adhere to an academic calendar. It is necessary to ensure that student admissions, teaching, examinations, and completion of courses are carried out within the designated academic period.
Curriculum Development: Aligning with National Needs and Student Demands
The Prime Minister's speech also underscored the necessity of creating and implementing a relevant curriculum, resonating with the country's needs and student demands. During program expansions, priority must be accorded to regions and communities that are marginalized from the universal access to education.
The meeting was also attended by Education Science and Technology Minister Ashok Rai and other high-ranking university officials, all equally invested in elevating the standards of higher education in Nepal.
Published on 7th July 2023
Pokhara Pokhara University