Tribhuvan University Announces Credit Transfer for Nepali Students Returning from KIIT Over Safety Concerns
Tribhuvan University Offers Credit Transfer for Nepali Students Returning from KIIT Amid Safety Concerns
Kathmandu, Feb 25 (PTI) – In a significant move, Nepal’s prestigious Tribhuvan University (TU) has announced a credit transfer facility for Nepali students returning from Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Odisha. The decision comes in response to safety concerns following the tragic death of Prakriti Lamsal, a third-year B Tech (Computer Science) student, who was found dead in her hostel room on February 16.
Background of the Incident
The sudden demise of Prakriti Lamsal led to campus unrest at KIIT, raising serious safety concerns among the Nepalese student community. While initial reports suggest suicide, her family and authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding her death. The incident triggered protests, leading to heightened tensions and prompting over 500 of the approximately 1,000 Nepali students at KIIT to return home.
Tribhuvan University’s Response
Recognizing the difficulties faced by students who were compelled to leave their studies mid-term, Tribhuvan University issued an official notice on Tuesday, offering them the opportunity to continue their education in Nepal without losing academic credits.
“For those students who were compelled to return to Nepal due to the problem they faced in KIIT, Odisha, it is notified that they can continue their remaining classes in Tribhuvan University with a credit transfer facility if they so desire,” TU stated in its announcement. The university has also provided an official email contact for interested students and guardians to facilitate the transition process.
Concerns Over Safety and Institutional Support
The departure of Nepali students from KIIT was further fueled by the initial response of the institution, which reportedly asked protesting students to vacate their hostels. Though KIIT later issued an apology and invited students to return, nearly 50% of them have already left India, citing ongoing safety concerns.
At a press conference held in Kathmandu, returning students voiced their apprehensions, questioning whether the university administration at KIIT could guarantee a safe and supportive academic environment for international students.
Impact on Higher Education Trends in Nepal
In recent years, a growing number of Nepali students have opted to pursue higher education abroad, particularly in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, and India. However, this development may influence students to reconsider Nepalese universities as a viable option for their academic future. Experts believe that TU’s decision to offer credit transfers could encourage more students to enroll in domestic institutions rather than seeking education opportunities overseas.
As Nepal’s oldest government-run university, TU’s proactive approach in accommodating returning students highlights its commitment to fostering a secure and inclusive educational environment. With this initiative, the university aims to provide a seamless academic transition for affected students while reinforcing trust in Nepal’s higher education system.
