In a recent concept paper addressing the operational challenges faced by Tribhuvan University, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Keshar Jung Baral highlighted a concern that the pass rates over the past ten years have remained stagnant, hovering below 30%. Despite efforts to enhance the educational landscape, the average pass rate from the academic years 2013-14 to 2021-22 has failed to surpass this threshold.
Vice Chancellor Baral's paper also sheds light on the allocation of funds by the University Grants Commission in 2023, indicating a substantial increase of nearly 72% in grants to higher education institutions. However, this financial boost has not translated into improved pass rates, prompting concerns about the efficacy of current strategies.
Data from the commission's report for the economic year 2021-22 reveals a significant enrollment figure of approximately 454,065 students across 62 affiliated campuses, 528 community campuses, and 554 private campuses. Despite this, the burden of higher education falls disproportionately on Tribhuvan University, with its campuses accounting for 78.63% of the total.
Furthermore, the report underscores the university's crucial role, with 71.12% of graduates in the economic year 2021-22 emerging from Tribhuvan University. This underscores the substantial investments made by both the government and parents, signaling a growing emphasis on the importance of higher education.
While official dropout rate statistics are lacking, anecdotal evidence suggests a troubling increase, likely exacerbated by various challenges within the university system. Delays in conducting exams and publishing results have led to prolonged academic programs, further impacting students' educational journeys.
In response to these challenges, Vice Chancellor Baral's concept paper outlines key areas for improvement, including enhancing the university's quality and effectiveness, optimizing asset acquisition and utilization, and fostering transparency and accountability. As Tribhuvan University navigates these obstacles, stakeholders await decisive action to address the pressing issues facing Nepal's premier educational institution.
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Tribhuvan University's Administration and Management Concept Paper
