Opinion | Are promises to depoliticise universities truly being fulfilled?
Summary
The government’s recent appointment of vice chancellors at eight universities has raised fresh questions over transparency, merit and political influence. The article argues that Nepal’s universities remain tied to partisan power despite promises to depoliticise higher education.
Key Points
- The government appointed vice chancellors at eight universities, including Kathmandu University and Tribhuvan University, from recommendations made by the selection committee.
- The appointments are criticized as non-transparent and politically influenced, with concerns raised about merit scores, committee composition and party favoritism.
- The article says the current system still gives political office-holders control over universities through the roles of Chancellor and Co-Chancellor.
- It calls for an independent, apolitical selection process and stronger oversight to ensure merit-based university leadership.
