Global College of Social Science and Technology

Global College of Social Science and Technology (GCST) is a Purbanchal University-affiliated college in Mid-Baneshwor, Kathmandu. Established in January 2006 and formerly known as the College of Development Studies (CDS), the college offers the Master in Development Studies and Bachelor of Technology in Artificial Intelligence.

GCST follows a participatory and practical approach to education. Discussions, field visits, workshops, seminars, group work, research, and presentations form part of the academic experience. Students are encouraged to examine social and technical issues, exchange ideas, and connect classroom concepts with community and professional settings. The college also provides classroom, library, computer-lab, mentoring, scholarship, and student-activity support.

College Highlights

Institutional Background

GCST began in January 2006 as the College of Development Studies. Its academic identity was initially associated with development studies, including interdisciplinary study, field-based learning, research, and engagement with social issues.

The institution now operates as the Global College of Social Science and Technology. The current name reflects its academic coverage of both social science and technology through two undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

The college remains based in Mid-Baneshwor, Kathmandu, where it conducts academic activities for students enrolled in its development studies and artificial intelligence programs.

Affiliation with Purbanchal University

GCST is affiliated with Purbanchal University (PU). Its academic programs follow the relevant university structure, requirements, and examination arrangements.

The affiliation connects the college’s two programs with the university’s academic system while GCST manages teaching, student support, classroom activities, field engagement, and related academic work at the college level.

Academic Programs

GCST offers one master’s program and one bachelor’s program.

Master in Development Studies

The Master in Development Studies is an interdisciplinary postgraduate program covering development from social, economic, policy, and research perspectives. It brings together subject areas such as economics, sociology, public policy, health, education, and the environment.

Students examine development theories and their practical application. The program also covers data collection, interpretation, research methods, fieldwork, and thesis writing.

Learning activities include:

• Group discussions and peer learning

• Case studies and scenario analysis

• Guest sessions with development professionals

• Field-based activities

• Collaborative projects

• Independent research

• Thesis preparation

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and meet the university’s academic criteria. The application process includes submission of an application form and academic records, followed by an entrance examination. An interview may also form part of the process when required.

B.Tech. in Artificial Intelligence

The Bachelor of Technology in Artificial Intelligence is a four-year program divided into eight semesters. It has a total intake of 48 students.

The program is designed around the academic and practical study of artificial intelligence and related technology subjects. Its longer semester structure allows students to progress through foundational, technical, and applied areas over four academic years.

The college’s computer laboratory, classroom resources, project-based activities, and collaborative teaching practices support the technical nature of the program.

Participatory Learning Approach

Teaching at GCST is structured around participation rather than one-way classroom delivery. Lectures are supported by discussion, practical assignments, case analysis, presentations, field exposure, and group work.

Students are encouraged to ask questions, discuss different viewpoints, and take part in collaborative academic activities. This approach is particularly relevant to development studies, where social issues require field observation and contextual analysis, and to technology education, where students need regular practical engagement.

Common learning activities include:

• Classroom lectures followed by open discussion

• Group assignments and peer learning

• Workshops and seminars

• Case-based academic work

• Field visits and educational tours

• Student presentations

• Research discussions

• Practical examples and simulations

• Continuous academic feedback

The teaching process also gives students opportunities to work independently and in teams.

Faculty and Academic Guidance

The faculty team includes educators, researchers, and development practitioners with experience in academic and professional work. Some faculty members have been involved in national and international projects and continue to take part in research and development-related activities.

Faculty members guide students through lectures, assignments, practical work, research, and presentations. Academic mentoring is also available for students working on research topics, assignments, and thesis planning.

The interaction between faculty and students is supported through discussion-based classes and continuous feedback. This gives students regular opportunities to clarify academic concepts and improve their work during the course of study.

Classrooms and Learning Resources

Classrooms

GCST classrooms are arranged to support lectures, discussions, presentations, and group activities. Projectors and whiteboards are available for classroom teaching.

The classroom setup supports both conventional instruction and participatory sessions in which students present ideas, discuss cases, and work with classmates.

Library

The college library contains books, journals, and research materials connected with its academic programs. Students also have access to digital resources for study and research.

The library is relevant to students completing assignments, reviewing academic literature, preparing presentations, and conducting research.

Computer Laboratory

The computer laboratory provides internet access and software required for research, presentations, and technical academic work.

It supports students who need digital tools for data work, report preparation, research, programming, and course-related practical activities.

Student Life

Student life at GCST includes academic and non-academic activities. Students take part in classroom discussions, workshops, presentations, cultural programs, educational tours, and recreational events.

Activities outside regular classes include:

• Educational tours and local field trips

• Cultural events and celebration programs

• Research discussions

• Student presentations

• Sports and recreational activities

• Guest talks

• Group discussions on development topics

These activities create opportunities for students from different academic backgrounds to interact and work together.

Student Groups and Initiatives

Informal student groups arrange talks, invite guest speakers, and conduct discussions on development and related issues. These groups give students space to exchange ideas outside formal classroom sessions.

Student-led research discussions and presentations also contribute to the academic environment. Participation in such activities allows students to practise communication, coordination, and academic discussion.

Scholarships and Financial Support

GCST offers scholarship support for eligible students based on merit and financial need.

The available forms of support include:

• Scholarships for academically performing students

• Support for students from remote areas

• Support for students from marginalized backgrounds

• Assistance for students facing financial hardship

Scholarship decisions depend on the applicable college criteria and the student’s circumstances.

Research and Academic Engagement

Research is part of the academic environment at GCST, particularly within the Master in Development Studies program. Students engage in fieldwork, data collection, presentations, independent research, and thesis writing.

Academic engagement at the college has included:

• Participation in seminars and conferences

• Faculty research published in journals

• Student-led research activities

• Internship experiences

• Academic presentations

• Field-based assignments

These activities place research and practical observation alongside classroom study.

Alumni Paths

GCST graduates have entered NGOs, research institutions, government agencies, and international organizations. Some have continued their education abroad, while others have worked in policy, research, and field-level development activities in Nepal.

These paths reflect the development studies background of the institution and the professional settings associated with research, public policy, community work, and development practice.

Academic Support for Students

Students receive guidance for assignments, research, presentations, fieldwork, and thesis preparation. Mentoring provides a point of contact for students who need help organizing academic work or developing a research plan.

Continuous feedback is also part of the teaching process. Rather than relying only on final examinations or submissions, students can receive comments during classroom activities, assignments, discussions, and project work.

What Students Can Expect at GCST

GCST has a focused academic structure built around two programs. Students can expect regular classroom participation, group work, practical assignments, research-related activities, and direct engagement with faculty members.

The MDevS program has a strong connection with social research, fieldwork, development theory, and public issues. The B.Tech. in AI program represents the college’s technology-focused academic area.

Across both programs, the college places emphasis on responsibility, critical thinking, participation, and the practical use of academic knowledge.