National Academy of Science and Technology, also known as NAST, is a renowned center of academic excellence in the fields of science, technology, and management. It currently offers courses in BCA, BBA, and BE Civil, all of which are affiliated with Pokhara University. The principal of NAST, Dr. Prem Bahadur Chand, hails from Baitadi district and has been associated with the institution since its establishment in 2000 AD. He started as a mathematics teacher and had since held various positions, including coordinator, vice principal, and now principal. In an interview with College Readers, Dr. Chand shares his thoughts on the college.

Migration of students has become a significant issue in the Kathmandu valley, yet this phenomenon is not seen in Dhangadi. All available seats are occupied. How did you achieve this?

The credit for our success goes to all the teachers and staff members who have contributed their efforts to make our institution what it is today. We are proud to have received the Quality Assurance Accreditation (QAA) from the University Grants Commission (UGC) last year, which is a testament to the quality of education we provide. Being the oldest engineering college in Sudurpaschim Province, we have earned the trust of parents and students, who prefer studying in their hometown. In today's world of science and technology, we have internet facilities available everywhere, which has helped us to fill all our seats with students.

The influx of Nepalese students studying abroad has emerged as a significant and persistent concern. What steps has the university taken to mitigate the impacts of this phenomenon?

We believe that the government bears the major responsibility in this situation. Without the implementation of policies that ensure employment opportunities, our efforts alone will not be sufficient to stop this trend. Moreover, the negative impact of this issue can affect the entire country, not just Kathmandu. In comparison to the past, there has been a decline in the admission rate. However, we are committed to providing skilled human resources for teaching, improving lab and library facilities, and upgrading infrastructures from our end.

NAST College is the first college affiliated with Pokhara University to receive QAA. How has this honor helped maintain the standard of education?

Yes, it has been very helpful. There are vast differences in the methods of teaching, record-keeping, and other practices. Previously, we did not keep records of our work, but now we keep records of every event, student meeting, and parent-teacher meeting. We also need to keep records of guest lectures, research projects, and college publications. Previously, we focused only on teaching and improving academic results, but now we also consider the personality development of our students along with their grades."

What types of programs has NAST demanded for the new subjects at Pokhara University?

We have requested the addition of an MBA program and an extra section for the BBA program. Our primary focus is on the MBA program since there is currently no MBA program available in the west of Chitwan district. As a result, students must travel to Kathmandu or Pokhara after completing their bachelors here. The market demand for MBA graduates from Pokhara University is high.

What are your thoughts on Pokhara University's process of affiliation and the addition of new courses? Do you have any suggestions for the university?

They have a specific set of procedures and criteria that need to be followed. However, I believe that certain changes need to be made to these procedures. Recently, Tribhuvan University released a notice regarding the provision of new subjects to its affiliated colleges. Unfortunately, this was not possible due to certain circumstances. Therefore, I would like to request Pokhara University to take into consideration the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), the number of students, and the available infrastructure when carrying out the affiliation process.

Lastly, what would you like to suggest?

I believe government policies should prioritize employment to prevent student migration. Educational institutions need to assure students of providing quality education comparable to foreign universities. Students often choose to study abroad for opportunities to learn and earn, so the government should consider this when formulating policies.