Kathmandu, June 13

The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has decided to monitor colleges affiliated to foreign universities. The ministry has formed a committee for the purpose.

The committee has been entrusted with submitting a report on examination structure, quality of education and achievements of such colleges. The committee has been given two months to submit its report.

“The seven-member committee is headed by Prof Yadav Raj Koirala,” said Baikuntha Aryal, spokesperson for the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.  Despite the increase in the number of colleges affiliated to foreign universities, Nepali students continue to go abroad for higher studies.

According to MoEST, 32,489 students were issued no objection certificate in the fiscal 2016-17. The number almost doubled in 2017-18 with 62,109 students having received the certificate until May 25.

Educationists have opined that although prospects of a bright future motivated youths to pursue studies abroad, the trend was counter-productive for the country in the long run. Higher educational institutions should improve the quality of education so that students may get international standard degrees within the country.