What can be done to prevent brain drain?

In 2023, more than 80,000 Nepali students sought permission to study abroad, showing a strong need to improve the education system in Nepal. Aaradhana Shrestha from ApEx spoke to three people to find out what they think must be done to improve the quality of education in Nepal to encourage students to stay back.

Milind Osti, 26

Youngsters are choosing to pursue education abroad in search of better opportunities. To strengthen the quality and reputation of national universities and colleges and encourage students to study in their home country, the government can take several key steps. First, improving infrastructure and ensuring easy access to resources is crucial. Investing in modern facilities, laboratories, and technology can enhance the learning experience for students. Additionally, increasing funding for academic programs can motivate students and elevate the quality of education.

Focusing on faculty and curriculum development is essential. This can make local universities more appealing as well as benefit academic excellence. Furthermore, establishing partnerships with international universities and engaging in collaborative projects can provide students with valuable global exposure. It’s also important to offer opportunities for personal and professional development to persuade students to pursue their higher education in Nepal.

Sahib Baidya, 26

To enhance the quality and prestige of Nepali universities and colleges, the government should prioritize increasing investment in higher education infrastructure and resources, including modern facilities and updated technology. Implementing robust quality control measures and fostering partnerships with international institutions can elevate academic standards and ensure curriculum relevance. Offering competitive salaries and professional development opportunities for faculty will attract and retain talented educators. Promoting research and innovation through grants and support for student-led projects can also boost the global reputation of Nepali institutions. Finally, creating strong industry linkages and internship opportunities will better align academic programs with job market demands, encouraging students to view local education as a good alternative to studying abroad.

Hrishav Tandukar, 25

To ensure quality education, the government should work towards aligning the curricula with international standards and the needs of the industry. This involves revising the course content regularly and ensuring that the courses are accredited by relevant bodies to boost their credibility. Furthermore, the Ministry of Education should encourage research activities by providing grants and establishing proper research centers in Nepal to support interdisciplinary research and facilitate various collaborations with international institutions. This will help elevate local universities in Nepal within global academic circles.

One of the major areas where the education sector in Nepal is lacking is the enhancement of student services. Few colleges or universities in Nepal offer comprehensive student support services, such as career counseling, academic advising, and mental health counseling. These services play a significant role in the career development and the overall well-being of students. Moreover, the education sector in Nepal should adopt modern teaching techniques, including digital tools and interactive teaching methods, which allow for two-way interaction between teachers and students.