Kathmandu, December 18, 2023 – In a significant address at the 49th convocation ceremony of Tribhuvan University, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda emphasized the commitment to merit-based appointments for the position of Vice-Chancellor at Tribhuvan University. Highlighting the government's focus on educational reforms, the Prime Minister underscored the necessity of making university education accessible to all, irrespective of financial status.
He noted that while basic education is already free in Nepal, steps are being taken to make higher education equally accessible, aligning with practices in developed countries. Dahal stressed the importance of eliminating financial barriers in education, ensuring that higher education is within reach for all classes and communities. He also made a bold promise to end political involvement in the university's affairs.
Dahal recognized the vital role of technical manpower in the nation's prosperity and reiterated his commitment to reforming university education in line with the higher education policy. Addressing the current challenges faced by Tribhuvan University, he emphasized the need for quality education that enables students to compete in the global market.
The Prime Minister welcomed the Honorable President and Chancellor of the university, acknowledging his significant contribution to the institution.
Celebrating the achievements of the graduates, Dahal expressed heartfelt congratulations to all students receiving degrees across various disciplines and levels, recognizing their potential for a prosperous future. He highlighted the university's unparalleled contribution to Nepal's educational landscape and extended gratitude to the staff and leadership for their critical roles in this journey.
Dahal acknowledged the university's efforts in academic, administrative, and managerial reforms, while stressing the need for continued work to meet the challenges of a globalized world. He reminded the audience that many of Nepal's political and administrative leaders are alumni of Tribhuvan University, underscoring its influence on the nation's development.
Emphasizing the importance of accessible education, Dahal outlined his vision for higher education in Nepal, aligning with practices in developed countries. He advocated for the elimination of financial barriers to education, ensuring that higher education is available to all classes and communities.
The Prime Minister recognized the significant contribution of technical manpower to national prosperity and praised Tribhuvan University for its focus on technical education. He stressed the need for the university to produce graduates capable of competing in the global market and the imperative for quality education.
Dahal also spoke about the university's efforts to collaborate with other prestigious global institutions, highlighting the government's readiness to support these endeavors. He addressed the challenges faced by the university in producing globally competitive manpower and called for a serious discussion on the role of political involvement and autonomy in universities.
He emphasized the realization of not only the students' dreams but also the aspirations of their parents, highlighting the importance of their education in serving the country and building their futures.
The Prime Minister expressed his belief that the knowledge and skills acquired by the students would greatly benefit society. He wished them success, hoping they would establish themselves as conscious, honest citizens, and fulfill their responsibilities towards the nation.
Prime Minister Dahal also touched upon the broader context of Nepal's development, mentioning the progressive implementation of the Constitution of the Federal Democratic Republic. He underlined the necessity of developing and utilizing structures envisioned by the constitution for the country's benefit, emphasizing the government's focus on social justice, good governance, and prosperity.
Reflecting on his third term, Dahal shared his commitment to combating corruption, fostering good governance, and steering the country towards economic prosperity. He noted the improvements in economic indicators and expressed confidence in the support and cooperation of the intellectual youth in these efforts.
Addressing the current national and global context, he stressed the importance of shifting from self-centered thinking to a more inclusive approach for the social and economic transformation of society and the country. He urged the new graduates to embrace this perspective and wished them success in their future endeavors.
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Dahal expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, the Vice-Chancellor of Tribhuvan University, the Hon'ble Minister of Education, Science, and Technology, and all those who contributed to the university's success. He thanked the guests, parents, students, media, and everyone involved in the convocation ceremony. With these words, he officially declared the close of the 90th convocation ceremony of Tribhuvan University, marking a momentous day for the graduates and the nation.
Tribhuvan University Convocation