Currently, the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology has conducted an initial evaluation of the applications for the position of Vice-Chancellor at Tribhuvan University. Despite preparing a shortlist, the absence of suitable candidates has been observed. Although the Ministry, following its sources, plans to take an additional week for the evaluation process, the shortlist has not been finalized even after ten days due to the shortage of qualified candidates.
As per information from Ministry insiders, an extra week might be necessary for the ongoing process. Without specifying individuals, a participant in the process mentioned, "The shortage of qualified candidates is evident. No one has been put forward for assessment, and the circumstances indicate a lack of eligibility for the position. Despite continuous endeavors to identify qualified individuals, the search for a competent candidate continues. Additionally, on Magh 19, 2080, we have invited another candidate for consideration."
The procedure for the selection and recommendation of the Vice-Chancellor at Tribhuvan University, as per the regulations of 2080, requires applicants to submit a comprehensive thought paper (vision paper) of up to three thousand words and a business plan of at least five thousand words for a four-year term. A total of 43 applications were received for the position of vice-chancellor, and the deadline for applications was set to be Magh 8, 2080.
A weight of 100 points has been assigned for the presentation and interview, with three evaluators each assessing the thought paper and business plan. According to the ministry's sources, a coding system has been applied to these documents. However, it is challenging to identify whose thought paper and business plan are being evaluated. An official from the Ministry stated, "In some cases, signatures or names have been covered in the evaluation process. It is not known to whom these belong."
Despite the Ministry's officers claiming to have conducted an impartial and independent evaluation, there is still skepticism about the arrival of the "final orders" from the Prime Minister's Office or a similar high authority. The uncertainty continues, and the fear of external pressures affecting the selection committee is rising. "The selection committee has been working independently so far. Even in the presentation and interview, we have been allowed to work independently by the government. We have been given the freedom to work on this matter until now. If we receive orders from above, it will be unfortunate for everyone," said the officials.
As per the provision of selecting at least one-third of the total number of applicants or a minimum of 15 individuals for shortlisting, the situation remains that only 15 applicants will be shortlisted. Therefore, the provision of shortlisting a minimum of 15 candidates is expected to be met. Those shortlisted will be notified within three days of the presentation and interview. In the process of presentation and interview, the phrase "Good Person or Our Person" will be considered. Currently, the Ministry officials are the ones who could face external pressures in the current situation. "So far, we have been working independently in a transparent manner. We have been allowed to work independently by the government, even in the presentation and interview. We have been working on this matter as per the directives given by the government. Therefore, until now, it has been appropriate for everyone, irrespective of political affiliation. We want to remain unaffected by political influences," said the officials.
