NRN Discusses Challenges and Opportunities for Nepali Students in the UK

London. Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) President Dr. Hem Raj Sharma informed that a discussion was held with the Education Minister in Nepal recently regarding pre-departure information for students going abroad, support systems like embassies upon arrival in the respective country, and assistance in the job market after returning to Nepal.

Addressing the program "The Plug" organized by NRNA UK in collaboration with the Nepali Embassy, London, on Friday to discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by Nepali students in the UK, President Sharma stated that he is aware of the students' problems as he comes from an academic background. He suggested arranging for students to get insurance before going to countries without health insurance.

Preparations are underway at the NRNA central office to start counseling for students before they go abroad, and discussions are being held with the Educational Consultancy Association of Nepal (ECAN) for collaboration. He stated that students who have stayed abroad for more than 183 days should also be given NRNA membership. He mentioned that NRNA, in collaboration with embassies and various organizations, can provide assistance such as career fairs and legal advice to students. President Dr. Sharma also informed that a Student Welfare Committee has been formed for the first time under the coordination of a Vice President of the association.

Prof. Padam Simkhada, Dean of Global Impact and Research at Chester University, shed light on the contribution of international students to the British economy and higher education. He stated that approximately 2.86 million students are currently studying in the UK, of which about 700,000 are international students.

"In 2021/22, international students contributed £41.9 billion to the UK economy, with a net benefit of £37.4 billion," he said. He also informed that Nepal has now become the fifth largest country sending international students to the UK. According to him, 19,553 Nepali students have been provided with study visas by December 2025.

However, he mentioned that Nepali students are still facing challenges such as financial pressure, academic adjustment, and lack of professional networks. "A degree from the UK does not guarantee employment," he said. "It is extremely important to apply strategically, tailor your CV and cover letter, and expand your network."

He also emphasized the need for students to learn to present their capabilities effectively. "Nepali students are capable, but they need to develop the skill of presenting themselves," he added.

Shivakumar Sapkota, Joint Secretary and Spokesperson of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Government of Nepal, participating virtually, stated that the government is committed to the welfare of Nepali students. He warned that legal action would be taken against those who engage in fraud in the foreign study process and expressed the expectation that students would return to the country after their studies and contribute to nation-building.

Student representative Presta Khanal stated that there are currently more than 20,000 Nepali students in the UK, and the main problems are accommodation, employment, and cultural adaptation. She said that students are under financial pressure due to fees of £15,000 to £20,000 per year and monthly expenses of up to £900.

"Due to cultural differences, language barriers, and changes in study style, it is difficult for students at first," she said. "There are also mental health issues, but many do not seek help."

Entrepreneur Hari Karki expressed concern that education is increasingly being treated as a business. He pointed out the need to regulate educational consultancy firms in Nepal and said that many students are given false assurances. "It is becoming very difficult to find employment after studying in the UK," he said. He also suggested that the process of sending students abroad for undergraduate studies should be halted for a few years.

Prof. Krishna Adhikari, associated with Oxford University, discussed the history and current situation of Nepali student migration and stated that commercialization in the education sector is increasing. He stated that universities earn a lot of income from international students, and therefore, the responsibility of looking after them also lies with the universities.

Entrepreneur Bikash Nepal shared his experience of coming to the UK as a student in 2009 and said that he has now expanded his business to 25 countries. He advised students to move forward with clear goals and not to shy away from struggles.

Nick Hinton, President of the Britain-Nepal Society, informed about various initiatives being taken for the welfare of Nepali students, including student support systems and policy suggestions.

The panel discussion was facilitated by Shiviram Lama. The speakers at the program emphasized the need for collaboration between the government, universities, community, and students.

NRN UK President Rajendra Pudasaini, responding to the students' queries, stated that despite limited resources, they have been providing assistance to students in distress as much as they can. He also stated that NRN UK is providing as much support as possible to Nepali students and young professionals.

Bipin Duwadi, Acting Ambassador of Nepal to the UK, stated that the embassy is working closely with the Nepali community in the UK, including Nepali students. He recalled the work done to find 'homeless' students and send them back to Nepal with the help of NRNA. He also stated that arranging for students' life insurance would be helpful in case of unforeseen events. He also advised students to focus on their studies, submit assignments on time, pay tuition fees on time, and be 'proactive'. He urged students to return to their home country after completing their studies. He also stated that the embassy has taken action against British universities that withdraw visas even when students pay fees on time. "Our first responsibility is to protect Nepal's national interest and the security of Nepalis," he said.

The program, conducted by NRN UK Spokesperson Shyam Luintel, was attended enthusiastically by Military Attaché of the Nepali Embassy Brigadier General Anup Shah, NRNA UK Chief Patron Chiranjivi Dhakal, NRNA England President Ramamaya Bisht, NRN activists, students, graduates, professionals, entrepreneurs, legal experts, education experts, and social activists.