Transforming higher education: Challenges and opportunities

In recent years, an increasing number of Nepali students have chosen to pursue higher education abroad, significantly impacting the educational landscape of Nepal. Approximately 80,000 students were granted permission to study abroad last year, contributing to a substantial expenditure of
Rs 67.7bn. This phenomenon raises questions about the factors influencing Nepali students to seek education abroad and the repercussions for educational institutions in Nepal.

Our educational institutions face several challenges that drive students to seek opportunities abroad. One significant issue is the prevalence of outdated courses within many institutions, where curricula may not align with the rapidly evolving demands of the global job market. Additionally, the availability of specialized programs, particularly in fields such as technology and science, is often restricted, posing challenges for students with specific career aspirations.

The educational landscape in Nepal exhibits a notable emphasis on theoretical instruction at the expense of practical knowledge. Graduates may find themselves lacking hands-on experience and practical skills that are increasingly sought after by employers in the professional realm. Compounding these challenges is the persistently high student-to-teacher ratio in Nepal’s educational institutions, hindering personalized attention, mentorship, and interactive learning experiences for students.

The system’s inefficiencies are further compounded by delays in conducting examinations, publishing results, and offering courses within stipulated time frames. These delays, attributed to administrative challenges and political disruptions, introduce uncertainties for students. Moreover, the influence of political activities, including those of student and teacher unions, contributes to an environment of disruptions, violence, and opposition within our educational institutions, negatively impacting the overall learning experience.

Inadequate infrastructure and a lack of investment in modern facilities, laboratories, and research spaces also plague Nepali educational institutions. Insufficient resources limit students’ opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and apply their knowledge practically. Additionally, the dearth of support for academic research, including limited opportunities and funding, further hampers students’ academic and professional growth. Addressing these challenges is crucial for enhancing the overall quality and competitiveness of Nepali higher education.

A significant number of students leaving a country to study abroad has ramifications for overall national development. One notable consequence is brain drain, where the departure of talented and educated individuals seeking higher education and career opportunities abroad results in a loss of skilled workforce for the home country. This, in turn, negatively affects productivity, innovation and technological advancement, as the skilled professionals who could contribute to these areas are now working and settling abroad.

Economically, the outflow of funds for tuition, living expenses, and associated costs related to studying abroad can lead to a depletion of the country’s foreign exchange reserves, causing currency depreciation. Moreover, the money spent by students abroad contributes to the economies of host countries rather than benefiting the home country, potentially resulting in trade imbalances and economic dependence.

The impact extends to the education system itself, with the departure of a significant number of students potentially causing decreased enrollment in domestic educational institutions. This may lead to financial challenges for educational institutions and a decline in the overall quality of education.

A skill gap may emerge as a consequence, with the home country facing shortages of skilled professionals in various fields. This shortage can impede the country's ability to compete globally, attract investments and foster technological advancements.

At a social and cultural level, the migration of a substantial portion of the youth population can lead to a loss of diversity in the home country. This may impact cultural exchange, social dynamics and the overall vibrancy of the community. Additionally, there is a dependency on remittances, as students who settle abroad may continue to work there and send remittances back home. While this provides financial support to families, it may result in a long-term dependency that is not a sustainable source of economic growth.

The impact also extends to research and development, as the country may experience a loss of research talent if students pursuing advanced degrees and research opportunities choose to stay abroad. Over time, the cumulative effect of brain drain and economic outflow can lead to long-term consequences for the country's economic growth, development and global competitiveness.

Educational institutions in Nepal can attract students by taking proactive measures to enhance the quality of education. One crucial step is to address the perceived stagnancy in curricula by actively engaging in curricular reforms. This involves updating and diversifying course offerings, introducing specialized programs and incorporating practical knowledge to align education with the evolving demands of the global job market.

Moreover, recognizing the importance of infrastructure and research opportunities, educational institutions should invest in modern facilities, laboratories and research infrastructure. State-of-the-art resources create an environment conducive to research and innovation, appealing to students with a keen interest in practical applications of their knowledge.

Additionally, fostering international collaborations is essential. Establishing partnerships with renowned international institutions can lead to collaborative programs, student exchanges and joint research initiatives. Such initiatives contribute to elevating the educational standards and global recognition of Nepali educational institutions.

In parallel, the government has a crucial role in shaping the education landscape. It should focus on comprehensive policy reforms, addressing concerns such as outdated courses and delayed administrative processes. Education policies should be revised to meet international standards, promoting innovation in teaching methods and ensuring a more globally competitive education system.

Furthermore, the government should allocate funds for research initiatives, promoting a culture of research and development. Scholarship programs can be introduced and expanded to incentivize meritorious students to pursue higher education locally. These scholarships could be based on academic excellence, innovation and contributions to community development.

In conclusion, a comprehensive approach involving both educational institutions and the government is necessary to address the challenges facing Nepali universities. By implementing these measures, Nepal can create an educational ecosystem that not only retains local talent but also attracts students globally, contributing to the overall growth and development of the country.