Administering assessments and releasing results punctually in line with the academic schedule represents a significant achievement by Lumbini Buddhist University. Nevertheless, it's worth scrutinizing the conventional three to four-hour examination structure, as it might not comprehensively gauge a student's complete performance. Indra Prasad Kafle, the examinations controller, is actively engaged in ensuring seamless operations and accurate evaluation. He shares his insights in a brief exchange with College Readers:

As an exam controller, how do you manage the academic calendar of Lumbini Buddhist University? Additionally, are the exams being conducted in a scientific manner to ensure seamless student evaluation?

Conducting the task of exam management independently might not be the most optimal approach; it would be more effective if the responsibility is delegated to the dean's office in alignment with their academic schedule. The dean's office is typically responsible for overseeing teachers, class operations, and evaluations. When classes are completed on time, it ensures timely publication of results. This aspect is closely related to the teachers. Various systems are already available nowadays. However, there are challenges to contend with, particularly the limited availability of personnel due to a shortage of full-time teachers. Part-time teachers are spread across different locations, affecting their ability to complete the evaluation process promptly. Additionally, the university's central office is located in Lumbini, whereas certain programs such as engineering are based in Kathmandu. This geographical separation necessitates outsourcing engineering teachers, as the university lacks its own engineering faculty. These factors contribute to the issue of untimely coordination and evaluation.

Despite these challenges, the exam management office of Lumbini Buddhist University is actively striving to improve the situation by aligning exams with the academic calendar.

Currently, what is the student population at Lumbini Buddhist University, and what are the levels of their academic accomplishments?

Except for the engineering and law programs, the student enrollment at our university is relatively low. Our law program, specifically the BA LLB, has a substantial number of students. In contrast, other subjects experience lower enrollment due to the university's autonomous and public nature, as well as the religious focus of the subjects. We have implemented a semester-based examination system. In this system, teachers handle student evaluations within the classroom during the semester. However, currently, an external entity manages the examination process. Our goal is to gradually empower teachers to take charge of evaluating students within the classroom environment, which is a primary objective of the semester system. Although the examination methodology has brought about certain challenges.

What factors need to be considered for a thorough student evaluation?

This aspect holds significant importance not only at Lumbini Buddhist University but across various universities in Nepal. The shift from the previous annual system to the semester system has been a significant change. However, this transition necessitates a substantial elevation of teacher involvement across all evaluation processes. It's crucial to ensure timely distribution of academic calendars to students. Moreover, the development of highly precise and scientific evaluation tools is paramount, ensuring that students remain unaware of the specifics of their assessment. Unfortunately, universities have encountered difficulties in pursuing this direction. Creating the necessary physical infrastructure is imperative. The underlying parameters for this transformation encompass the delivery of quality education, engagement in academic pursuits, participation in extracurricular activities, and fostering innovation. These aspects should replace the conventional rote learning approach that caters to the three-hour examination format. This strategic shift aims to instill unquestionable quality in education, facilitate student innovation within society, and mitigate the specter of unemployment among graduates. However, achieving these objectives is met with numerous challenges.

Is it necessary for there to be a positive relationship between the colleges under the dean's oversight and the institution responsible for conducting exams in order to ensure accurate student evaluations?

Certainly, a strong foundation begins with a well-designed syllabus. This should be coupled with a scientifically structured assessment methodology. Furthermore, effective practical strategies for classroom engagement are essential, along with students' recognition of the course's societal relevance. The oversight of these factors rests with the dean's office. The role of the exam conducting body primarily involves recording instructions provided. The notion of upholding quality education during examinations is somewhat outdated. Our approach still leans towards traditional methods. When students demonstrate commendable performance and the institution perceives its students as integral to its identity, the likelihood of post-graduation unemployment diminishes. The exam conducting entity primarily observes and maintains, while other significant actions are orchestrated by the dean's office.

The growing inclination among students to pursue education abroad after completing their 12th-grade studies is partly influenced by the issue of exams and results being delayed, which can lead to students failing within the university system. Could you provide information regarding the pass rate at Lumbini Buddhist University?

Your inquiry is indeed pertinent. We are proud to report a notably high pass rate in fields such as law, engineering, and tourism. Our students demonstrate success in securing jobs and gaining admission to universities. Notably, our law program is still in its nascent stage. During our admission selection process, we prioritize the enrollment of high-caliber students. A strategic approach involves aligning our curriculum with the prevailing market demand. The emphasis is on practical teaching methods, as this approach instills a sense of substantial learning and mitigates the allure of studying abroad. The key components, including syllabus design, faculty preparation, and program structuring, are meticulously addressed. We place significant focus on the subject of Darshan, centered around Buddhism, which holds the potential to attract both international students and local residents. By cultivating a robust and competent academic staff, we aim to fortify our offerings further.

Finally, in your role as an exam controller, what aspects within Lumbini Buddhist University do you perceive as needing improvement?

I'd like to emphasize that, following Gautam Buddha's teachings, education embodies not only guidance but also the enlightenment of prosperity and the path to peaceful living. In a world where both modernism and postmodernism have shown limitations, the 21st century has seen a widespread acceptance among both citizens and foreigners that Buddhist education is a vital, practical, and rational form of learning that encompasses various dimensions.

We have meticulously designed a curriculum that delves into culture and religion, encouraging students to perceive it as a framework for holistic living. Our approach aims to impart the art of living through education. Our society is in pursuit of development, and the university serves as a mirror reflecting its aspirations. Nevertheless, we are committed to progress without distancing ourselves from the national benefactors. Thus, our focus remains on enhancing the curriculum, empowering our educators, and diversifying our program offerings. Only through these efforts can we truly serve justice to our society's needs.