Purbanchal University's Faculty of Science and Technology hosted a seminar on: "Innovative Pathways: Bridging Academia and Industry in Science & Technology" from 28 - 29 May, 2024. The event brought together experts from diverse fields who underscored the urgent need for stronger ties between academic institutions and industries to curb the exodus of students seeking higher education abroad.
Prominent speakers highlighted that enhanced collaboration in technology, research, and manpower development is crucial for Nepal's economic prosperity. Vice-Chancellor Dr. Biju Kumar Thapalia emphasized the significance of cooperation among the government, universities, and industries, predicting positive outcomes from such partnerships.
Prof. Thapa noted that students often leave Nepal for new academic opportunities and urged universities to modernize curricula to offer relevant skills. Registrar Nilamani Pokharel echoed this sentiment, stating that updated programs aligned with market demands could address unemployment and brain drain.
Yagya Prasad Jammarkattel, President of the Purbanchal University Teachers' Association, advocated for international-standard curricula to attract foreign students and reduce brain drain. Prof. Dr. Subarna Shakya from the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) called for increased research funding to support these initiatives.
Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Rai, Director-General of the Department of Plant Resources, linked the student exodus to outdated curricula and stressed the need for contemporary updates. Dr. Rabindra Dhakal, Member Secretary of NAST, identified the lack of academia-industry collaboration as a key issue, noting Nepal's struggle to retain its skilled workforce. He announced plans for NAST to establish research centers in all seven provinces and provide research grants.
Ranjeet Poddar, President of the Computer Association of Nepal (CAN) Federation, emphasized the necessity for universities to produce skilled manpower tailored to Nepal's needs to mitigate brain drain. Naresh Kumar Shah, Director of the Purbanchal University School of Science and Technology, underscored the importance of industry collaboration to reduce post-graduation uncertainty for students.
Roshni Seigel, Head of Business Development and International Relations at India's Media and Entertainment Skills Council, expressed a commitment to collaborative efforts and support. Prof. Dr. Pawan Kumar Jha, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology, reiterated the critical need for academia-industry partnerships and voiced confidence in the workshop's potential to bridge gaps between the two sectors.
Assistant Dean Manoj Kumar Haluwai highlighted that universities are producing job creators rather than job seekers. Sudhir Guragai, the program coordinator, praised Purbanchal University's efforts in offering unique subjects and preparing outstanding human resources.
The workshop saw participation from representatives of 25 university faculties, constituent colleges, and affiliated colleges, all contributing to a robust dialogue on the future of higher education and industry collaboration in Nepal.
