Baseless allegations

Apropos of the edit page article “Kathmandu University: In need of rejuvenation” (THT, Nov 19), it seems that the writer has not updated his knowledge of the recent activities and achievements of Kathmandu University (KU). KU has been able to establish itself as a world class university and even been able to educate scores of foreign students. The 14th convocation, which was recently held, awarded diplomas to a total of 1378 students, out of which 25 per cent were foreign students. Regarding the Service Commission, I would like to point out that nowhere in the world, except some Nepali universities, is this system in place. The claim about the absence of research activities also holds no ground as the School of Education and Medical Sciences have published several journals and articles of international standard. PhD students at KU are now required to publish at least two articles in international journals. Moreover, KU has also been listed among the top 100 universities in Asia. And, above all, KU’s contribution to the national economy is considerable. Definitely, under bad

leadership KU would not have been able to boast these remarkable achievements.

Faculty members, School of Education, KU

Daring

This is in reference to the edit page article “Kathmandu University: In need of rejuvenation” (THT, Nov 20). I along with many of the Kathmandu University (KU) staff would like to thank the author for his daring exposure of the malpractices prevalent in KU. One can remain an

academician as long as one wants to but cannot indefinitely hold onto the position of vice-chancellor, registrar or dean. If the tenure of chief executives is set for an indefinite period, then vices associated with it are inevitable. However, every truth passes through three stages before it is recognised. In the first, it is ridiculed. In the second stage, it is opposed. This was

demonstrated by KU authorities as well. By equating truth with indiscipline, they have harassed, tortured, victimised and even sacked the staff who spoke and took the side of truth. In the third stage, the truth is regarded as self evident, when it requires no further evidence. And this stage, for KU, I think has come.

Dr. Bibhuti Ranjan Jha, via e-mail

Insolence

This refers to the edit page article “One million tourists: Can we meet the target?” (THT, Nov. 19). The writer mentions that more than the number of tourists the amount of dollars they spend is important.

However, we feel like cows that are to be milked every time we visit Nepal. This is our third visit to Nepal and have a good impression of your country. We love the mountains and the kindness of the people. Nevertheless, we have to confess that we were often disrespectfully greeted. I urge the schoolteachers and parents to teach their children to greet foreigners in a

respectful manner.

Mecki and Peter, Germany

Bad conduct

People had expected that once the CPN-Maoist came to power, it would change its conduct. However, Maoist excesses continue, as the recent murders prove. This has not helped create

a favourable public opinion of the YCL.

Anjan Gurung, Pokhara