Kathmandu Metropolitan City Deadline Extended for Research Fellowship 2080
Kathmandu Metropolitan City has launched an innovative initiative aimed at harnessing the power of research to shape its policies and development strategies. The Metropolitan Research Fellowship (MRF) program stands out as a significant step towards engaging researchers in contributing to the city's growth and improvement.
Key Highlights of the Information Session
- The informative session successfully convened, with 18 attendees participating in person and 22 joining online, showcasing a keen interest in research.
- Engineer Shailendra Jha, a commission member, emphasized the program's goal to extract valuable insights from research to inform fact-based and need-driven policy making.
- The session revealed the Municipal Corporation's focus on the 'Gaurav' and 'Golden Scheme', highlighting an openness to innovative proposals that address unseen or emerging societal needs.
Application and Selection Process
- Prospective applicants have until 11:59 PM on Saturday, February 10, 2024, to submit their proposals online. The application portal can be accessed here.
- The selection process includes a rigorous evaluation of proposals based on specific criteria, followed by coded and anonymous review to ensure impartiality.
- Finalists will be invited to present their proposals, with 10 researchers ultimately chosen to undertake the research projects.
Eligibility and Requirements
- Applicants must hold a master's degree in their chosen research field, along with a minimum of two years of experience in research, teaching, or relevant professional work.
- Proficiency in either Nepali or English is required, as research findings will be presented in one of these languages.
- The program is inclusive, with no age restrictions, encouraging a diverse range of participants.
Program Objectives and Research Areas
The MRF program is designed to produce operational and policy research that integrates various development dimensions within Kathmandu Metropolitan City. This year, research topics include history, culture, urban planning, education, local economic development, and sustainable development among others, reflecting the program's comprehensive approach to city development.
Achievements from the Third Edition
The previous year's edition showcased diverse research outputs, including studies on urban road safety, vertical farming possibilities, mental health responsibilities, and innovative education methods, demonstrating the program's impact on addressing pressing urban challenges.
The Kathmandu Metropolitan City Research Fellowship program represents a significant opportunity for researchers to contribute to meaningful policy and development projects. By fostering a collaborative environment between the city's governance and the academic community, the program aims to pave the way for sustainable and informed urban development. Interested candidates are encouraged to seize this opportunity to contribute to the shaping of Kathmandu's future.
Selected Research Topics for the Fourth Edition 2024:
- History, Art, Culture, Tradition
- Language, Literature
- Urban Planning, Urban Design, Architecture, Transportation, Physical Infrastructure
- Demographic, Sociological or Anthropological Studies
- Education, Social Development, Youth, Social Campaigns, Health, Living Standards
- Local Economic Development, Urban Finance, Entrepreneurship, Human Resource Development
- Urban Informal Sector, Poverty, Unauthorized Settlements
- Environment, Sustainable Development, Disaster Management, Climate Change
- Law, Governance
- Information and Communication, New Thinking
