Institute of Engineering Purwanchal Campus

Purwanchal Campus, formerly known as Eastern Region Campus (ERC), is a constituent campus of Tribhuvan University (TU) and one of the associate engineering campuses of the Institute of Engineering (IOE). As a comprehensive, non-profit making, and autonomous institution, Purwanchal Campus is a pioneering institution for higher education in Nepal. It is located in the Sunsari district of the eastern region, specifically at Gangalal Marg, Tinkune, Dharan-8.

A Legacy of Excellence:

Established in 1976 under a loan agreement with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Purwanchal Campus received technical assistance from the government of the United Kingdom in 1978. This collaboration facilitated the campus's development, which was formally organized under the Institute of Engineering (IOE), Tribhuvan University (TU), and completed construction works in 1984.

Diverse Engineering Programs:

Initially, Purwanchal Campus offered trade-level courses in Mechanical, Electrical, and Civil engineering streams as specified in loan and project agreements. The campus introduced Diploma programs in Mechanical, Electrical, and Civil Engineering in 1984, followed by Refrigeration & Air-conditioning Engineering in 2052 and Computer and Electronics Engineering in 2059. In 2000, the campus pioneered the Bachelor of Engineering (BE) in Agricultural Engineering, and in 2004, the BE program in Civil Engineering commenced.

Expansion and Upgradation:

Purwanchal Campus has continually strived for further expansion and upgradation of its programs. In 2069, it introduced programs in Electronics & Communication Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Computer Engineering. In 2071, the campus added the Electrical Engineering program, and in 2072, it launched the BE program in Architecture. Currently, there are seven BE engineering programs offered at the campus.

Focus on Excellence:

With a vision to become a center of excellence in engineering education in the eastern region, Purwanchal Campus aims to achieve its development objectives and strategy. The campus provides state-of-the-art facilities, including classrooms, libraries, workshops, laboratories, administrative buildings, hostels for both boys and girls, faculty and staff housing, and essential amenities like roads, electricity, internet connectivity, and drinking water. Equipped with modern tools, equipment, and machines, the workshops and laboratories facilitate practical learning experiences for students.

Experienced Faculty and Staff:

Purwanchal Campus boasts a dedicated team of faculty and staff. With over 100 teaching faculty and 60 administrative and supportive staff members, the campus ensures a conducive learning environment. The faculty members possess advanced qualifications and expertise in various engineering disciplines, backed by years of experience in their respective fields.

Reaching the Campus:

Purwanchal Campus is easily accessible by both road and air.

• By Bus: The campus is approximately a 12-hour bus ride from Kathmandu, 1 hour from Biratnagar, half an hour from Itahari, 3 hours from Bagdogara and Siliguri in India, and 1.5 hours from Jogbani, India.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Biratnagar, which is a 45-minute flight from Kathmandu.

At present, Purwanchal Campus welcomes over 1200 students who benefit from the quality engineering education and comprehensive infrastructure provided by the institution. With its commitment to excellence and continuous improvement, the campus remains a trusted destination for engineering studies in Nepal's eastern region.

About Dharan:

Dharan, a beautiful and multicultural town located in the eastern region of Nepal, lies in the Sunsari District, Koshi Zone. Situated at the foot of hills, it boasts an altitude of 1148 ft (349m) and is approximately 600 km away from the capital city of Kathmandu. Dharan is renowned for its natural beauty, clean surroundings, and friendly hill people.

The town is characterized by its picturesque roads, remarkable homes, and a diverse community consisting of different races and ethnic groups. Dharan embraces cleanliness and openness, creating a welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

One of the notable attractions near Dharan is Bhedetar, a famous hill station located 19 km north of the town. Bhedetar serves as a place of relief during the summer months when the heat becomes intense. The area offers breathtaking views of the mountains, especially during autumn when the sky is clear. Visitors can witness the majestic Makalu and enjoy the cool and fresh air. Several lodges and restaurants cater to tourists seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in this serene setting.

Another notable spot is Charle's Tower, situated on top of a hill, offering an exciting vantage point. From here, visitors can enjoy excellent views of Hile-Dhankuta, the Kanchenjunga Himal in the north, and a vast valley with the Sapta Koshi river. Dharan's growth can be attributed to the establishment of the Gurkha Recruitment Center by the British in 1953. Rais and Limbus, ethnic groups from the eastern region of Nepal, constituted a significant portion of the Gurkha soldiers who received training in Dharan.

Dharan experiences a tropical monsoon climate, with maximum temperatures ranging from 35 to 36 degrees Celsius in April and minimum temperatures of 10 to 12 degrees Celsius in January. The town receives the highest rainfall, around 460mm, typically in August. Dharan is also known for its religious significance, with over 25 temples and holy sites, making it an important pilgrimage destination. Clear skies, particularly during autumn, offer magnificent views of the Himalayan range and provide an opportunity to enjoy the refreshing Himalayan breeze.

Historically and archaeologically important Bijaypur hill houses several temples, including Pindeshwar, Dantakali, Budha Subba, and Panchkanya Temples. Additionally, the nearby Barahchatra temple at Chatara holds significance. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, which serves as a sanctuary for wild buffalo and is home to more than 300 species of birds.

Dharan serves as a gateway to various hill regions in the north and east, attracting trekkers heading to destinations like Kanchenjunga, Solu Khumbu, and the Arun Valley. The town offers several lodges and elegant restaurants that serve delicious meals, although star hotels are limited. For shopping, Bhatabhateni and Gorkha Shopping Complex are popular destinations.

Moreover, Dharan is recognized as an educational center in eastern Nepal, hosting prominent colleges, schools, and the renowned B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences. The institute not only serves as a major medical institution in Nepal but also provides high-quality healthcare services to eastern Nepal and northern parts of India. Other educational institutions in Dharan include the IOE/Purwanchal Campus, Central Campus of Technology (Food and Beverages Technology) in Hatisar, Mahendra Multiple Campus, and Pindeswor Bidyapitha (Sanskrit).

Objectives of Purwanchal Campus (ERC):

1. Producing skilled and qualified technical manpower: The primary objective of Purwanchal Campus (ERC) is to educate and train individuals to become skilled and qualified technical professionals. The campus aims to meet the nation's demand for a competent workforce in various technical fields.

2. Developing nationally and internationally competent professionals: Purwanchal Campus (ERC) strives to produce professionals who are not only competent at the national level but also capable of meeting international standards. The objective is to prepare graduates who can excel in their respective fields and contribute to the global engineering community.

3. Performing research and development: The campus aims to actively engage in research and development activities. By conducting research, Purwanchal Campus (ERC) seeks to enhance the nation's engineering capabilities and address engineering problems. These efforts contribute to the advancement of technology and finding innovative solutions to challenges.

4. Offering training and sponsored courses: Purwanchal Campus (ERC) provides various types of training courses, sponsored programs, and workshops. These initiatives aim to enhance the skills and knowledge of individuals in specific areas of engineering. By offering such courses, the campus supports professional development and fosters continuous learning.

5. Conducting problem-oriented research: In addition to academic research, Purwanchal Campus (ERC) focuses on conducting problem-oriented research. This type of research aims to address specific engineering challenges and find practical solutions. By tackling real-world problems, the campus contributes to the overall development and progress of the engineering field.

6. Providing services to the community: Purwanchal Campus (ERC) seeks to offer services to the community, utilizing the expertise and resources available within the campus. These services may include consultancy, technical assistance, and collaboration with industries or organizations. By extending its services, the campus establishes strong ties with the community and contributes to its development.

7. Enhancing professional experience and retention: The objectives of Purwanchal Campus (ERC) also encompass the professional development and retention of its teaching and non-teaching staff. By providing opportunities for professional growth, the campus aims to broaden the experience and expertise of its staff members. This objective helps create a conducive environment for continuous improvement and encourages staff retention within the campus.

Overall, these objectives align with the vision of Purwanchal Campus (ERC) to utilize its resources effectively, bridge the gap between financial needs and available resources, and contribute to the technical advancement of the nation. Through education, research, and community engagement, the campus strives to produce competent professionals and address the engineering needs of the country.

Scholarship Information:

The Purwanchal Campus (ERC) offers scholarships and full-paying seats for various programs to support students in their academic pursuits. The following table provides details on the number of scholarship seats and full-paying seats available for each program:

Program	Scholarship Seats	Full Paying Seats	Total Seats
Bachelor in Civil Engineering	24	72	96
Bachelor in Electrical Engineering	12	36	48
Bachelor in Electronics & Comm. Eng.	12	36	48
Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering	12	36	48
Bachelor in Computer Engineering	12	36	48
BE in Agriculture Engineering	12	36	48

In each program, a certain number of seats are allocated as scholarship seats, providing an opportunity for deserving students to receive financial assistance for their studies. The remaining seats are categorized as full-paying seats, where students are required to pay the full tuition fees.

It is important to note that the number of scholarship seats and full-paying seats may vary from year to year based on the policies and availability of resources. Therefore, interested students are advised to refer to the latest updates and guidelines provided by Purwanchal Campus (ERC) for accurate and up-to-date information regarding scholarships and admissions.

Courses Offerers

1. Bachelor of Civil Engineering (BE Civil):
   - Duration: 4 years
   - Seats: 96
   - Description: This program focuses on the study of designing, constructing, and maintaining various civil engineering structures such as buildings, roads, bridges, dams, and water supply systems. Students learn about structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, and environmental engineering.

2. Bachelor of Agriculture Engineering (BE):
   - Duration: 4 years
   - Seats: 48
   - Description: This program combines engineering principles with agricultural sciences to address the challenges in agricultural production and resource management. Students study irrigation systems, farm machinery, soil and water conservation, agricultural processing, and sustainable agriculture practices.

3. Bachelor of Computer Engineering (BE):
   - Duration: 4 years
   - Seats: 96
   - Description: This program focuses on the study of computer hardware, software, and their integration to develop innovative solutions. Students learn about programming, algorithms, computer networks, database management, and software engineering. They gain skills to design and develop computer systems and applications.

4. Bachelor of Electronics, Communication and Information Engineering (BE):
   - Duration: 4 years
   - Seats: 48
   - Description: This program explores the field of electronics, communication, and information technology. Students learn about electronic circuits, communication systems, digital signal processing, microprocessors, and telecommunication networks. They acquire skills in designing and implementing electronic and communication systems.

5. Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (BE):
   - Duration: 4 years
   - Seats: 96
   - Description: This program focuses on the study of mechanical systems, energy conversion, and manufacturing processes. Students learn about thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, machine design, materials science, and industrial engineering. They gain skills to design, analyze, and optimize mechanical systems and processes.

6. Bachelor of Electrical Engineering (BE):
   - Duration: 4 years
   - Seats: 48
   - Description: This program covers the study of electrical systems, power generation, transmission, and utilization. Students learn about electrical circuits, power electronics, control systems, renewable energy sources, and electrical machines. They develop skills in designing, operating, and maintaining electrical systems.

7. Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch):
   - Duration: 5 years
   - Seats: 48
   - Description: This program focuses on the study of architectural design, planning, and construction. Students learn about architectural theory, building materials, structural design, environmental sustainability, and urban planning. They develop skills to design functional and aesthetically pleasing buildings and spaces.

8. MSc in Land and Water Engineering:
   - Duration: 2 years
   - Seats: 20
   - Description: This program emphasizes the study of land and water resources management. Students learn about hydrology, irrigation engineering, watershed management, soil conservation, and water resource planning. They gain skills to manage and optimize land and water resources for sustainable development.

9. MSc in Sanitation Engineering:
   - Duration: 2 years
   - Seats: Not specified
   - Description: This program focuses on the study of sanitation systems, wastewater treatment, and environmental hygiene. Students learn about sanitation planning, solid waste management, water quality management, and public health. They develop skills to design and implement sustainable sanitation solutions.

These programs provide students with comprehensive knowledge, practical skills, and hands-on experience in their respective fields, preparing them for successful careers in engineering and related industries.