The education sector should be gradually nationalised, and private universities and academic institutes should be strictly monitored by the state
Over the past few decades, Nepal's education sector has undergone significant growth, witnessing a surge in the establishment of universities, academic institutions and research centres. Despite this expansion, these institutions often operate in isolation, with limited engagement in both national and international networks. In contrast, prominent international academic communities have pioneered a different approach by creating intricate and interconnected academic networks.
These networks have showcased the potential to immensely benefit educators, researchers and students, facilitating valuable collaborations, fostering innovative ideas and facilitating the exchange of knowledge. Ultimately, these efforts contribute substantially to the overall academic progress and development of the nation.
One of the primary advantages of an academic network is the facilitation of collaboration and exchange of innovative ideas.
By connecting universities, colleges, research institutions, and research and development-oriented companies across the country, an academic network would be established that would create vivid opportunities for interdisciplinary cooperation. This would enable experts from different fields to work together, share their expertise and undertake collaborative research projects. The pooling of knowledge and resources would lead to innovative solutions to pressing challenges faced by Nepal, such as sustainable development, poverty alleviation, health care service improvement and environmental conservation.
Furthermore, an academic network would play a crucial role in addressing the brain drain phenomenon that Nepal has been grappling with for many years. By establishing a strong academic network, Nepal can create an environment that would attract and retain its brightest minds in the country. This would help in nurturing local talent, encouraging them to contribute to the nation's progress and reducing the loss of intellectual capital.
Another significant benefit of an academic network is the dissemination and sharing of knowledge. By connecting educational institutions, the network can provide a platform for scholars, researchers and students to share their findings, experiences and perspectives both within the country and globally. This knowledge exchange would not only enrich the academic community but also promote a better understanding of Nepal's culture, history and challenges among the international research community. So far, remarkable research has not been done in various sectors of social and applied sciences in Nepal.
Hence, a strong academic network will facilitate diverse world-class innovative research projects and trailblazing scientific outcomes.
Additionally, an academic network would enhance educational opportunities for students across the country. By connecting a maximum number of universities and colleges, the network can facilitate mutual learning experience and exchange of students, allowing them to study at different institutions and gain exposure to diverse academic environments. This would broaden their horizon, promote cross-cultural understanding and equip them with the skills necessary to thrive in an interconnected world. Moreover, the academic network can also provide access to online resources, virtual classrooms and collaborative research platforms, ensuring that students from remote areas have equal opportunities to quality education.
For that, the education sector should be gradually nationalized, and private universities and academic institutes should be strictly monitored by the state. A system of partner universities and colleges should be established, and exchange semesters should be offered to the students in the partner universities throughout the country.
This will equip the students with experience and an aptitude to cope and sustain within different academic settings.
In addition to the national academic network, partnerships should also be established with international universities and research institutes. Such international collaborations will bring in expertise, funding and opportunities for high-level partnerships.
Being an employee of a renowned university in Germany, I have personally experienced that international researchers are keen on collaborating with Nepali counterparts. International non-governmental organisations (INGOs) and various non-profit and charitable foundations are working in diverse areas in Nepal, mainly in a solitary manner. A network of such international collaborators should also be linked with the national academic network for maximal output.
Furthermore, to establish a successful academic network in Nepal, it is crucial to invest in the necessary infrastructure, such as high-speed internet connectivity, digital libraries and advanced research facilities.
The academicians and students should be enlightened on the benefits of an academic network.
The government, educational institutions and funding agencies should collaborate with national and international agencies and stakeholders to accumulate financial support and incentives for research and innovation.
To sum up, the establishment of an academic network in Nepal is an apt necessity for the country's holistic progress and development. By investing in the necessary infrastructure and establishing national and international partnerships, Nepal can create an environment that would value talent, encourages innovation and contributes to the nation's allround growth.
The academic network will not only benefit the education sector but also have a positive impact on various aspects of Nepali society, economy and culture.
This will finally levitate Nepal to a different league of intellectual and innovative advancement.
Dr Joshi is a senior scientist and neurobiologist at Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Germany
A version of this article appears in the print on August 14, 2023, of The Himalayan Times.