Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University has announced the cancellation of its scheduled undergraduate entrance examination, which was originally set to take place on October 9, 2023 (Ashoj 22, 2080). This decision comes amidst a backdrop of escalating turmoil within the institute, marked by protests, resignations, and a clash of interests between various stakeholders.
The cancellation of the entrance examination follows the collective resignation of examination board officials, which included Assistant Dean Sushil Bajracharya, as well as several other key members of the Exam Board. These resignations, delivered officially to the dean, were attributed to the failure to conduct the examination in accordance with the previously agreed-upon terms.
The turmoil within the institute was initially sparked by the administration's controversial decision to raise tuition fees from Rs. 318,000 to Rs. 775,000, citing an annual deficit of approximately 150 million rupees. This decision led to a collective protest by student organizations, who argued that the fee hike was unjustified and demanded its reversal.
On October 2, officials from the educational institution and student organizations reached a temporary consensus, which included the reversal of the fee increase, an extension of the application deadline for new admissions, and the rescheduling of the entrance examination for October 9. The accord was officially signed by the institute's Dean, Prof. Dr. Shashidhar Joshi, and Assistant Dean Prof. Dr. Sushil Bajracharya, along with 11 student representatives from various organizations.
However, on the very next day, faculty and staff at the institute initiated their own protests in support of the dean, further exacerbating the conflict. This internal division within the institution raised concerns about the capacity to conduct the examination and maintain academic integrity.
With the cancellation of the entrance examination, prospective students now face uncertainty regarding their academic prospects. The postponement until "further notice" adds an additional layer of uncertainty to an already tumultuous situation, potentially affecting the academic calendars and plans of many.
It remains to be seen how the institute's leadership will navigate these challenging waters and work towards a resolution that allows for the resumption of academic activities and the satisfaction of all stakeholders, including students, faculty, and staff. The cancellation of the entrance examination marks a critical juncture in this ongoing saga, with the fate of the institute and its students hanging in the balance.
View the official statement of the IOE below:
