University vacancies :

The country is in a transitional period. But this should not mean that all sectors should be left in chaos. Areas like education should remain above the petty considerations of the political parties. But, sadly, education has become one of the most politicised sectors in the country. The government’s failure to appoint the top officials of TU and four other universities for long has made the future of hundreds of thousands of students uncertain. Unlike the controversial appointment of the 14 ambassadors to foreign capitals, the choice of university bosses is likely to be far less so. Prime Minister G P Koirala has several times promised to appoint the officials “soon” and even the deadlines given by him are long past. If nominating ambassadors does not require the promulgation of the interim constitution, why should it come in the way of university appointments? Moreover, the government could consult the Maoists on the choice of candidates. So the government alone is to blame for the costly delay.

Ujjwal Chalise, Pokhara

Private role :

It is good news that the government has invited private firms to submit with the Department of Electricity Development their expression of intent for the development of Upper Karnali, Arun III and Budhi Gandhaki projects.

Nepal cannot afford to depend on government efforts alone in harnessing the hydropower potential. The involvement of the private sector will help not only meet power shortage but also check irregularities in power projects. The government should focus on more private investment in critical sectors like roads, bridges and dams.

Sunil Dhakal, via e-mail

Expectations :

The first batch of UN monitors is arriving next week to manage the arms and armies of the state and the Maoists.

All the Nepalis are hoping that things will become easier when they start work, leading to the promulgation of the interim constitution and formation of interim parliament and government. No less is their expectation that they will be allowed to vote fearlessly in free and fair constituent assembly elections.

Sapana Malla, Tahachal

Confusing :

Apropos of “Write-offs behind fall in banks’ NPL level” (THT, Dec. 21), the report was very confusing even for a student of management. In one place, the reporter mentions “Nepal Rashtriya Bank”. Does she mean Nepal Rastra Bank or any other bank? About the Non-Performing Loans (NPL), it is mentioned that the level of NPL has come down to 14.22 per cent from its high of 30 per cent in 2003. But where is the exact figure of the NPL?

Furthermore, do only the Rastriya Banijya Bank and the Nepal Bank Limited have NPL, or other banks as well?

The members of THT editorial department should become more careful.

Santosh Agrawal, Faculty of Management, TU

Update :

Of late, one of my favourite segments, the Horoscope, has not been updated on THT Online on a daily basis. Many readers are interested in this column. THT should fix the problem soon and not provide occasions for complaint in the new year 2007.

Ashish Bhandari, London