Prof. Dr. Dipak Bahadur Bhandari, Registrar of Pokhara University, has been trying his continuous efforts for smooth operation of the university and systematizing the affiliation that the university has already opened, and many colleges have registered their application for affiliation. Because of the obstacles and present scenario faced by the university, the affiliation is under consideration. Prof. Bhandari shares his opinion with College Readers. Excerpts:

What are the current accomplishments of Pokhara University?

Our organization is currently placing its primary focus on the development of paramedical courses within the hospital, and on the establishment of a teaching hospital in Pokhara that can operate effectively since it was the aim of 25 years. In order to achieve this goal, we have conducted a thorough assessment of all the necessary infrastructure for the teaching hospital and have already begun offering emergency services. Moving forward, our organization plans to expand the range of courses offered at the hospital by introducing dental courses in the near future. Furthermore, we intend to follow up on this by adding medical courses, including MBBS, the following year, with the dental program serving as a foundation. Throughout our efforts, we remain highly committed to developing the necessary facilities and infrastructure that are vital to the hospital's success. By doing so, we hope to create a teaching hospital that can meet the needs of the community in Pokhara, and provide world-class medical education to aspiring healthcare professionals for many years to come.

Are there any plans to stop the trend of students going abroad after +2?

In Nepal, many students opt to pursue employment opportunities abroad due to the lack of strong job security within the country. Similarly, a significant number of students choose to study abroad in search of quality education. Our organization is dedicated to addressing these concerns by improving the existing courses and introducing highly sought-after programs in the market. For example, students often travel overseas to study disciplines such as optometry, radiology, and physiotherapy because these courses were previously unavailable in Nepal. However, we have now incorporated these courses into our curriculum to prevent students from seeking education abroad. Additionally, we ensure timely delivery of examination results and organize convocations, maintaining a regular schedule. Although the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted our operations, we have successfully resumed our regular activities. To accommodate a large number of students, we are extensively developing infrastructures, particularly in Musetuda. Our master plan for Musetuda includes provisions for approximately 8,000 students to study, accommodations for around 2,000 students in hostels, and housing for 50 staff members and 100 teachers in quarters. We actively conduct fund meetings and have presented our plans to the University Grants Commission (UGC).Overall, our organization is committed to bridging the gap in educational and employment opportunities by offering the courses that students would typically pursue abroad. Through continuous development and strategic initiatives, we aim to provide a conducive learning environment and promising career prospects for our students within Nepal.

The delay of entrance examinations has caused a lot of impact on student’s education. How would you react to that?

In order to enhance flexibility and streamline the process, it is essential for the government to issue entrance certificates to students who have completed their technical subject exams. This step would bring about significant improvements as we currently encounter delays in various aspects of the examination system. Despite students successfully passing their exams several months ago, the scheduling of entrance examinations has been significantly delayed. Consequently, many students opt to seek employment and educational opportunities abroad. To rectify this situation and retain talented individuals within the country, it is imperative to establish a year-round availability of entrance examinations specifically tailored for technical subjects. By doing so, students will have the opportunity to seamlessly transition from their academic achievements to pursuing further education or entering the workforce. This approach would not only benefit the students themselves but also contribute to the overall development of the nation. The availability of entrance examinations throughout the year would offer students greater flexibility and eliminate the unnecessary waiting period they currently face. It would enable them to make timely decisions regarding their future career paths and education. Furthermore, it would alleviate the growing trend of students seeking opportunities abroad due to the lack of immediate options at home. By implementing a year-round system for technical subject entrance examinations, the government can effectively address the concerns of delays and provide a conducive environment for students to pursue their desired fields of study or employment within the country. This approach would not only empower students but also contribute to the growth and progress of the nation's technical workforce.

“Pokhara University is just opening affiliations.” What’s your views on this rumor?

Political interference is directly impacting the education sector. Our organization is actively working towards addressing the lack of quality education in underserved areas by establishing affiliations in such regions. The primary goal is to provide accessible education options so that students do not feel compelled to go abroad for their studies. To meet the demands of the market, we are continuously expanding our range of courses and updating the syllabus to cover all the subjects that are in high demand.

Lastly, what message would you like to convey to the parents and students?

 We are actively considering ways to enable students to travel internationally for educational purposes. We understand the importance of exposing students to different cultures, educational systems, and perspectives, and we want to provide them with opportunities to expand their knowledge and gain valuable experiences. Through international travel, students can engage in immersive learning, interact with peers from diverse backgrounds, and develop a deeper understanding of global issues. By organizing educational competitions and incorporating international travel, we aim to promote a well-rounded education that extends beyond the confines of the classroom. These initiatives empower students to explore their capabilities, cultivate a global mindset, and prepare for the interconnected world's challenges and opportunities.