Bhawani Prasad Paudel, the current president of HISSAN Bagmati Province, assumes the role of the chief of Jaya Multiple Campus. With an extensive three-decade-long tenure in academia, Mr. Paudel brings forth a wealth of experience and a distinguished personality. Presently serving as the Principal of Jaya Multiple Campus, a prominent educational institution in Nepal, he holds responsibilities encompassing academic and administrative oversight, alongside providing leadership to the faculty and staff members. Additionally, Mr. Paudel holds the position of President in the Nepal Tug of War Association and actively participates in various services and educational initiatives. In his role as the President of HISSAN (Higher Institutions & Secondary Schools’ Association Nepal) for Bagmati Province, he offers insightful observations and a vocal stance on the current challenges faced by higher education institutions in Nepal. As the Kathmandu HISSAN convention commences, Mr. Paudel engages in a brief interview with College Readers, shedding light on the accomplishments of HISSAN Bagmati and sharing perspectives on the upcoming leadership. Excerpts:

What initiatives has HISSAN Bagmati undertaken since its formation?

Initially, our focus was on coordinating with both the central government and the Bagmati province. We established committees in districts such as Kathmandu, Chitwan, Dhading, and Kavre, with ongoing efforts to form committees in Dolakha, Ramechhap, and Sindhuli. Engaging with district committee members, we discuss HISSAN’s programs. The central HISSAN plans, and district members implement the tasks. The province committee’s crucial role lies in mediating agreements between central HISSAN and district members.

We conducted short refreshment training sessions for school/college leaders and a two-day leadership training program in Nagarkot. Discussions involved upcoming tasks, and a roadmap was formulated. Topics such as the flawed Education Act and potential amendments were addressed. A program on taxation in the education sector was organized in Kathmandu, focusing on educating HISSAN members about taxes. Currently, we’re organizing sports programs based on central-level guidelines and supporting district members in plan implementation. The primary objective of HISSAN Bagmati is to ensure the active participation of all district members, fostering collective progress.

Concerning committee formation in all 13 districts of Bagmati province, we initiated the formation and activation of district committees after establishing the province committee. Committees have been successfully formed in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Lalitpur, Kavre, Chitwan, and Dhading. By the end of Poush, we aim to complete the committee formation process in Ramechhap, Sindhuli, and Dolakha. Bhanu Hari Bhandari from the province committee is assisting in this process. In districts with fewer +2 colleges, the process is time-consuming. We’ve decided to form a committee in each possible district or merge 3 to 4 districts to create a combined committee. Our goal is to form committees in all districts soon.

What qualities do you believe are essential for the leader of the HISSAN district level?

In any organization, leadership positions are competitive, and this is evident in HISSAN at various levels. Even inactive members become active during conventions. Those involved in HISSAN are aware of the leadership qualities needed for smooth functioning. District-level leaders should understand their district’s strengths and know all member schools and colleges well. Trustworthiness, time dedication, and fund management skills are crucial. Candidates should have a good understanding of HISSAN’s grassroots, maintain positive relations with all members, and be confident in taking necessary actions. Leaders must address various problems in the education sector be it local or national.

Do you expect the upcoming leader of HISSAN Kathmandu to be selected unanimously?

Kathmandu is considered next to the center, actively supporting central HISSAN in various tasks. The convention of HISSAN Kathmandu should convey the message that a qualified and capable leader should be selected unanimously. While many individuals are interested in leadership roles, the selected candidate should earn the trust of all members and be resilient enough to handle obstacles. This will set an example for other districts and encourage fair judgment. If unanimity is not achieved, we will strive to find a resolution.

What roles can HISSAN play in resolving issues arising from the recent Education Act?

HISSAN has actively engaged in various activities, lobbying efforts, and even initiated a strike to pressurize the government to address concerns in the proposed Education Act. The support of member schools/colleges and other educational organizations has been crucial. HISSAN is leading the campaign and playing a significant role in lobbying for amendments to the Education Act. We aim to make legislators aware of the need for amendments that are fair to the private sector and provide security for investments. HISSAN’s ongoing role is crucial for the well-being of the private education sector, ensuring the amended Act aligns with our interests and creates a conducive environment for working and investing in the private field.

How should HISSAN cooperate with other institutions like PABSON, N-PABSON, OPEN, and AECoN to progress together?

During difficulties in the education sector, HISSAN has consistently united various umbrella organizations. HISSAN collaborates closely with these associations, playing a significant role in supporting their welfare. All these institutions work for their members, and when issues arise, HISSAN collaborates collectively with these organizations. In instances of problems with the Education Act and related by-laws, HISSAN works in tandem with these organizations.

Formation of municipal committees by HISSAN Kathmandu is not in line with your organization’s legislation. How do you plan to address this?

While our current legislation doesn’t have a provision for forming municipal committees, the central committee recently approved this provision. Consequently, many districts are in the process of forming municipal committees. We plan to amend our legislation during the central HISSAN convention, incorporating a provision for municipal committees based on a collective decision.

Given that all district and province conventions need to be completed before the central HISSAN convention in Baishak, 2081, does this imply that the HISSAN Bagmati convention is imminent?

Our tenure has a provision of two years. Although the last convention for selecting the president was organized just a year ago, this year, we plan to hold a get-together program, with the selection of a leader scheduled for the next year.

Lastly, what suggestions do you have for all HISSAN members and delegates attending the upcoming HISSAN Kathmandu convention?

All member colleges and institutes should renew their membership to attend the convention. Representatives from each organization should bring an official letter while attending. Attendees should be familiar with the procedure for selecting leadership. Those interested in any post in the District Executive committee should nominate their candidacy.

6th Convention of HISSAN Kathmandu

Geared up for Electing Leaders Adept at Navigating Education Act Challenges

Higher Institutions and Secondary Schools’ Association Nepal (HISSAN) operates as the national umbrella organization for privately funded secondary schools and higher institutions. Its primary goal is to cultivate disciplined, patriotic, and globally conscious citizens by enhancing the quality of secondary and higher education, fostering collaboration among schools, and addressing challenges faced by students. HISSAN has demonstrated its crucial role in advancing education in Nepal, evident in its annual accomplishments.

In response to global changes, the organization should strategically plan and commit to delivering education that prepares students to navigate the evolving environment. This includes emphasizing academic rigor, practical skills, and an international perspective. HISSAN should actively engage in various activities, such as providing academic support, conducting training programs, and advocating for the rights of secondary schools and higher education. The association also contributes to improving examination systems and cultivating international relations for the exchange of ideas.

The significant migration of 10+2 graduates to foreign countries for higher education has disrupted the university education landscape in Nepal. Therefore, HISSAN’s commitment to social responsibility, provision of scholarships, promotion of healthy competition, and organization of programs for societal contributions has become crucial in assisting the government and safeguarding the nation and its assets. Nonetheless, it is evident that HISSAN plays a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape in Nepal, with a focus on quality, adaptability, and social responsibility.

HISSAN Kathmandu and its Role

HISSAN Kathmandu holds a pivotal role with broad responsibilities and an extensive reach into educational activities and policy lobbying. Serving as the practical arm of Central HISSAN, it plays a crucial role in local operations.

The role of HISSAN Kathmandu encompasses a spectrum of vital functions to enhance the landscape of higher education. First and foremost, it is dedicated to providing current and pertinent information on higher education issues to member schools, ensuring the timely and effective dissemination of valuable insights. In tandem with this, HISSAN Kathmandu diligently conducts academic activities in adherence to a structured calendar, fostering an environment conducive to scholarly pursuits.

Moreover, HISSAN Kathmandu serves as a proactive force in supporting policy lobbying, aiming to shape educational policies in favor of its member institutions. It also plays a pivotal role in resource and income generation to sustain and enhance the quality of education provided. Standardizing question papers and student evaluation processes is another crucial facet, ensuring fairness and consistency in academic assessments.

A significant aspect of HISSAN Kathmandu’s mission is to increase membership and extend outreach to new schools through diverse programs and activities. Acting as a catalyst for change, it strives to curtail the drainage of students and financial resources abroad by demonstrating that the quality of education in Nepal surpasses that offered abroad. Simultaneously, it endeavors to safeguard private investments from dilapidation.

Ultimately, the activity level of Central HISSAN is contingent upon the initiatives undertaken by HISSAN Kathmandu. Serving as the intermediary between member schools and central functions, it actively engages in lobbying efforts with the government and relevant authorities, ensuring the seamless operation of the Central Committee of HISSAN and contributing to the overall advancement of education in Nepal.

HISSAN Kathmandu Leadership

The inaugural working committee of HISSAN Kathmandu was established under the leadership of Mr. Nawaraj Pandey. Subsequent conventions saw leadership transitions to Dr. Swagat Shrestha, Ram Hari Silwal, Narendra Bahadur Adhikari, and, most recently, Shiva Prasad Adhikari until the 5th convention two years ago.

The upcoming 6th convention of HISSAN Kathmandu is scheduled for the 20th of Poush, 2080, which is two months ahead of the deadline. Special thanks go to President Mr. Shiva Prasad Adhikari for his timely arrangements.

Selecting the Leadership in the 6th Convention

The process of selecting leadership for HISSAN Kathmandu has traditionally been marked by unanimity, up to and including the 5th Convention. As the 6th convention approaches, the expectation is for a continuation of unanimous decision-making. However, a slight departure is noted, particularly for the presidential post, where two individuals, Jesica Chemjong and Gopiraj Parajuli, have expressed their interest. Similarly, for the position of secretary, the interested candidates include Lakash Shrestha, Rishi Neupane, Krishna Gautam, and Chhabi Pandey. Interestingly, for the treasurer’s post, only Dipak Nyaupane is expected to vie for the position. Despite these multiple expressions of interest for specific roles, the overall aspiration remains to maintain a consensus and unity in the selection of leadership during the upcoming convention.

Qualities that upcoming leader should possess

The upcoming HISSAN president must collaborate closely with the determined and assertive mayor of the metropolitan area, who operates as a single-man army, along with other influential politicians. This collaboration is essential for addressing academic, managerial, and scholarship issues prevalent in the region. The collaborative team player should approach the position with a competitive mindset, aiming to surpass the achievements of their predecessors. Essential qualities for the role include effective time and fund management for program implementation.

A profound understanding of the educational challenges and opportunities in Nepal, particularly in higher education, is essential. The current state of higher education is hindered by loose government policies that encourage studying abroad. Strong advocacy skills are needed to represent the interests of HISSAN Kathmandu in policy discussions with government bodies and other stakeholders. Additionally, the ability to build and leverage networks for the benefit of HISSAN Kathmandu and its members is important in navigating the complex educational landscape.

Challenge for the upcoming leader

-Education Act

Addressing the prejudiced and biased aspects of the Education Act stands as a paramount concern and an ongoing topic of debate that the upcoming leader is expected to tackle. The significant capital invested in the education sector, painstakingly accrued with the intention of enhancing the quality of education and the overall well-being of the Nepalese populace, cannot be underestimated. Furthermore, the leader should strive to establish a collaborative dialogue between the private sector and governmental bodies, fostering an environment where both entities work in tandem for the betterment of education in Nepal.

-Municipality and Metropolitan

A multitude of local levels across the nation hold diverse perspectives and interpretations regarding the jurisdiction over education and the operations of schools. Provinces have the authority to establish education rules without disrupting the federal system, and concurrently, local units can formulate rules that do not infringe upon provincial jurisdiction. To ensure a unified education system, a federal structure is deemed necessary. Therefore, Municipalities and Metropolitan Cities must develop their education policies to foster the growth and protection of both private and community schools uniformly. The forthcoming leadership of HISSAN is anticipated to address the intricacies associated with local governance in this context.

-Scholarship

Previously, 10+2 schools adhered to the guidelines set by the National Examination Board (NEB) -  then HSEB, offering scholarships to students. According to the instructions, these scholarships covered waivers in admission fees and monthly tuition fees exclusively. However, last year Kathmandu Metropolitan City issued a directive expanding the scope of these scholarships to include examination fees, sports and extracurricular fees, as well as transportation fees, in addition to admission and monthly tuition fees.

The upcoming leader is tasked with engaging in direct and assertive dialogue with the mayor to address and resolve this issue promptly. It is crucial to uphold the established tradition of providing scholarships to students, ensuring that the benefits remain consistent with the previous years and align with the educational policies set forth by the local authorities.

Achievements of HISSAN Kathmandu under the leadership of Shiva Prasad Adhikari during his tenure:

Conducted Leadership Development Training:

Organized a one-day leadership workshop for the Educational Entrepreneur Program at Hotel Country Villa in Nagarkot on 18 Asar 2079, showcasing HISSAN Kathmandu’s commitment to leadership development.

Greeting Exchange Programs:

Coordinated greeting exchange programs among representatives of member institutions on various occasions, fostering collaboration and communication. Noteworthy events included celebrations like New Year, Dashain, Tihar, Chhath, etc., with active participation from HISSAN Central officials and members.

Active Participation in Sports Week:

Played a pivotal role in coordinating the HISSAN Sports Week, emphasizing social, cultural, and extracurricular activities. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation in various sports, contributing to the popularity of the HISSAN sports fest among students at different academic levels.

HISSAN Kathmandu SEE Career Quiz and HISSAN Kathmandu Quiz:

Prioritizing academic excellence and competitions, HISSAN, in collaboration with College Readers, organized the SEE career quiz for students who appeared in SEE and the HISSAN Kathmandu quiz for students in classes 11 and 12, which aired on Kasthamandap Television for eleven episodes, marking a pioneering effort in HISSAN’s history to organize such a quiz competition. This quiz was organized for the students of grade eleven and twelve. About five hundred students participated in the quiz. First, second, third and fourth position holders were awarded cash prizes: fifty thousand, twenty-five thousand, twelve thousand five hundred and five thousand respectively and scholarship to study in bachelor’s level in collaboration with various colleges.

HISSAN Kathmandu Scholarship:

A particularly commendable initiative was the introduction of the HISSAN Kathmandu Scholarship, an annual award presented to the top performers in Science, Management, and Humanities in grade twelve board examinations. This scholarship program aimed to recognize and encourage academic excellence among students. Scholarship categories are HISSAN Kathmandu Dr. Madhav Prasad Baral Deligence Scholarship for plus two science topper student, HISSAN Kathmandu Umesh Shrestha Deligence Scholarship for management topper student and HISSAN Kathmandu Dr. Baburam Pokharel Memorial Scholarship for humanities topper student.

Practice Book Published:

Published the HISSAN Practice Book, containing 10 sets of questions from each subject, supporting students preparing for the HISSAN PRE BOARD EXAM for Class 11 and 12 under the National Examination Board.

Talk Show Program:

Initiated an interactive program on ‘Problems in Higher Education and Solutions,’ held at Indreni Food Land, Baneshwar. The program featured key figures, including the former Minister of Education, Rector of Tribhuvan University, Vice-Chancellor of Kathmandu University, and Education Department Heads.

Marathon Competition:

Successfully organized the first HISSAN Marathon-2023, themed ‘Let’s Run Together for Environment,’ on Jestha 22, 2080, to celebrate World Environment Day. The event saw the participation of approximately 300 students from various academic levels.

Residential Meetings:

Conducted residential meetings at Taj Mulkot Sindhuli and Aagantuk Resort Dhulikhel, providing a platform to formulate future action plans and review completed programs. These meetings played a crucial role in fostering mutual brotherhood and camaraderie.

Formation of Municipal Committees:

At the initiative of the Kathmandu District Working Committee, municipal committees were established for the first time in Kathmandu Metropolitan City and other municipalities. The formation process commenced on Bhadra 20, 2080, beginning with Tarakeshwar, followed by the formation of the Tokha Municipal Committee on Poush 3, 2080. Subsequently, a joint committee for Nargajun, Chandragiri, and Kirtipur was formed on Poush 8. The Kathmandu Metropolitan City Committee came into existence on Poush 12, 2080. These committees have enhanced the organizational structure of HISSAN, and there are plans for the establishment of additional city committees in the future.

Active Participation and Instrumental Role in Center’s Programs:

Actively participated and played a crucial role in various programs organized by the center, including international conferences, EDUFAIR, and examinations conducted on behalf of HISSAN Center. Under Shiva Prasad Adhikari’s leadership, HISSAN Kathmandu thrived as a dynamic and proactive organization, fostering collaboration and engagement within the educational community.

Membership Increased:

Approximately a hundred schools and colleges were initially affiliated with HISSAN Kathmandu. Under the leadership of Shiva Prasad Adhikari, the team successfully expanded the membership, reaching an impressive milestone of almost 300 members. This notable achievement represents a historic accomplishment for HISSAN. The consistent growth in membership is evident in recent data, which confirms the current count of 300 members in HISSAN Kathmandu. The ongoing formation of municipal committees is expected to further contribute to this upward trajectory, with precise data becoming available upon the completion of this process

Conclusion:

HISSAN faces significant challenges on its path forward. The activism, efficiency in work, and resilience of HISSAN Kathmandu are pivotal factors in elevating the overall quality of education in the country, making it competitive on the global stage, and safeguarding investments in private education. It is imperative to address policy ambiguities and counter anti-private investment provisions in the Education Act, guiding these efforts to a logical and constructive resolution. The current imperative is to foster a private sector-friendly environment through continuous communication with local levels, actively engaging in preventing the migration of Nepali students abroad, and ensuring a robust educational landscape for the nation’s future.