NOC Distribution for Studying in South Korea Suspended for Nepali Students
Ministry of Education Temporarily Halts Issuance of Study NOC
The No Objection Certificate (NOC) distribution for studying in South Korea, considered a popular destination for Nepali students, has been suspended until further notice.
The Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology issued the decision following multiple complaints from students facing hardships in Korea.
Complaints Reported by Students in South Korea
Several students approached the Nepali Embassy in Korea with concerns about their difficulties. In response, the embassy informed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Nepal about the growing number of such cases.
Acting on this, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs communicated the issues formally to the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology for review.
According to Information Officer Neelkantha Dhakal from the Ministry of Education,
“The embassy informed the Foreign Ministry that students are suffering in Korea. After receiving a letter from the Foreign Ministry, we suspended NOC distribution to understand the situation properly.”
Nature of the Difficulties Faced by Students
Although students apply to study in Korea, they must first attend Korean language courses upon arrival. Only after gaining proficiency in the language are they allowed to enroll in universities.
However, students have reportedly been struggling both before and after university admission, especially regarding employment and adjustment challenges.
Number of NOCs Issued for South Korea
According to the Ministry of Education, 31,973 NOCs have been issued over the past five years to students planning to study in South Korea.
Around 10,000 NOCs were issued in the Nepali calendar year 2081 alone.
South Korea currently ranks as the sixth most preferred foreign study destination for Nepali students.
