30th April 2025, Kathmandu
The British Council has released a comprehensive research report on Transnational Education (TNE) in Nepal, focusing on its current status and prospects.
Transnational Education in Nepal
The study highlights the opportunities available to students and educational institutions, as well as the challenges they face in the sector. The report aims to provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of higher education in Nepal.
Event Launch and Discussions
The report was launched at a special event held in Kathmandu, where policymakers, higher education leaders, stakeholders from the education sector, teachers, and international education experts gathered. The event facilitated an in-depth discussion on various aspects of Transnational Education (TNE) and its potential role in shaping the future of higher education in Nepal.
Keynote Remarks
Rustum Modi, Country Director of the British Council Nepal, emphasized the significant role of Transnational Education (TNE) in the development of Nepal’s higher education. He stated, “This report sheds light on the opportunities and challenges that TNE can bring to Nepal, and the potential for stronger educational cooperation between Nepal and the UK. TNE can address gaps in access to quality education, contribute to economic growth, and provide Nepali students with valuable educational opportunities.”
His statement reflected the broader goal of improving access to higher education, especially for those who may otherwise be excluded from global opportunities. Modi expressed the British Council’s eagerness to collaborate with partners to implement the recommendations outlined in the report and to continue supporting the development of Nepal’s higher education system.
The Role of the UK-Nepal Education Partnership
The British Ambassador to Nepal, Rob Fenn, spoke about the growing importance of UK-Nepal educational collaboration. He said, “This report marks a crucial moment for the future of Transnational Education in Nepal. It highlights the opportunities and challenges that will shape the sector moving forward. Education partnerships between the UK and Nepal can create new opportunities for Nepali youth, expand access to world-class education in Nepal, and help build a knowledge-based economy.”
The ambassador highlighted the mutual benefits of this partnership, including the potential to drive innovation and excellence in education. He stressed that the collaboration could further elevate the standard of education in Nepal and provide new pathways for economic development.
Panel Discussion on Opportunities and Challenges
The event also featured a panel discussion on the opportunities and challenges related to Transnational Education in Nepal. The session was facilitated by Pratistha Thapa Raemajhi, National Exam Director at the British Council Nepal.
Experts such as Shreya Karki, Managing Director of National Institute of Research and Training Pvt. Ltd., Dr. Neeraj Dhital from the University Grants Commission, and Narottam Aryal, Chairman of King’s College, provided their insights into the current and future state of TNE in Nepal.
The panel explored how Nepal could enhance its competitiveness in the international higher education sector through institutional diversification and global partnerships. They discussed the need for curricula updates, financial aid options, and improved access to education for underrepresented groups in the country.
Main Recommendations
The report offers several key recommendations to improve Transnational Education (TNE) in Nepal:
Simplifying regulatory processes and reducing administrative hurdles to promote better policy development.
Strengthening mechanisms to ensure quality assurance in higher education.
Encouraging institutional diversification and fostering international collaborations to enhance Nepal’s competitiveness in the global education landscape.
Updating curricula in line with labor market demands and developing financial options to make TNE more accessible.
Expanding international cooperation and developing responsible, sustainable teaching models that align with Nepal’s educational goals.
The goal of these recommendations is to promote sustainable development and equitable access to Transnational Education, benefiting both Nepal and its students.
Conclusion
The report by the British Council offers a clear roadmap for strengthening the Transnational Education sector in Nepal. By addressing both opportunities and challenges, the research outlines a pathway for improving the quality of education, enhancing global connections, and ensuring that more Nepali students have access to world-class educational opportunities. The full report is available on the British Council’s website.
For more: Transnational Education in Nepal