KATHMANDU: The third ECAN educational fair started today in Bhrikutimandap.

The four-day fair is organised by Education Consultants Association of Nepal (ECAN) which expects more than 100,000 visitors. Counselling for studying in the USA, UK, Australia, Germany, India Ireland, Switzerland and other countries will be provided in the 15 pavilions and 125 stalls of the fair, the organisers said. About 50 institutions from various countries will be representing in the fair. UTL is distributing a free UTL Sim card to all the visitors during the fair.

“The visitors will get unbiased information and the exhibitors will get a trustworthy platform,” said Uttam Pant, president of ECAN. “In case of misguidance or any other kinds of misinformation, ECAN will take strict action.”

Apart from educational consultancies Bank of Kathmandu, British Council, Alliance France, German and Malaysian Embassies and many other college representatives are participating in the fair. According to Ministry of Education data, a total of 1,377 students approached the ministry for abroad studies on self-investment in 2056. However, the number increased to 17,487 in the 10 years. “Increase in family income is the major reason for this growth curve,” said Dr Bishnu Karki an educationist expert.

“Nepali students going abroad can be tourism ambassadors — especially for the Nepal Tourism Year 2011,” Mani Lamichanne of Nepal Tourism Broad said.