TU Officials Told to Explain Academic Calendar Delays

Education Minister Pokharel Directs TU Officials to Publicly Explain Academic Calendar Delays

Minister for Education and Sports and Pro-Chancellor of Tribhuvan University (TU), Sasmit Pokharel, has stated that university officials must publicly explain the reasons for any disruption to the academic calendar and specify a timeline for corrective action.

Chairing the 67th Annual Day meeting of the TU Senate at Tribhuvan Memorial Building in Kirtipur, Minister Pokharel emphasized that a fixed academic calendar, good governance and effective use of technology are essential for improving the university's academic performance.

Focus on Academic Calendar and Student Services

Minister Pokharel directed university officials to ensure that all academic activities, including entrance examinations, student admissions, teaching and learning, effective internal assessments and publication of final examination results, are conducted according to the prescribed schedule.

The minister also urged officials to develop concrete action plans to improve student services through greater use of technology, particularly in issuing mark sheets, transcripts and academic certificates.

Examination Reforms and Practical Education

Highlighting the need to reform the university examination system, Minister Pokharel said assessments should measure how much students have learned rather than how much they can write in examinations.

The minister urged faculty members to adopt teaching methods that develop problem-solving abilities, creativity, research skills and practical competencies instead of focusing primarily on memorized knowledge.

Research and National Development

Minister Pokharel stated that Tribhuvan University should give greater priority to research aimed at addressing Nepal's social, economic, cultural, environmental and technological problems.

The minister emphasized that university research can contribute effectively to national development only when the gap between knowledge production and its practical application is reduced.

Student-Centered Reforms and Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence

Minister Pokharel stressed that students should remain at the center of all university reforms. The minister called for effective mechanisms to listen to students' grievances, understand their needs and aspirations, and address their concerns.

The minister also emphasized that emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), should not be viewed merely as challenges but also as new opportunities for knowledge creation and innovation.

Minister Pokharel further highlighted the need to develop appropriate policies and institutional capabilities to ensure the responsible and ethical use of these technologies.