UK Minister Highlights Education, Skills, Economic Cooperation for Nepal-UK Ties

Kathmandu. United Kingdom (UK) Minister of State for Indo-Pacific, Anne-Marie Trevelyan, has stated that education, skills development, and economic cooperation are the main pillars for further strengthening and modernizing the historical relationship between Nepal and the UK.

Addressing a program organized in the capital on Sunday during her first visit to Nepal, she expressed commitment to taking the more than 200-year-old friendship and the friendship treaty signed 100 years ago to new heights. Minister Trevelyan recalled that the UK has been continuously supporting Nepal's education sector for the past 70 years.

Minister Trevelyan mentioned that education and the economy are intrinsically linked. She stated that the UK is willing to support Nepal's goal of economic growth and job creation.

She said that the concept of 'Industrial Strategy' and 'Skills England' implemented in the UK can be partnered with Nepal according to its needs. Highlighting the importance of 'Transnational Education', which allows Nepali students to obtain UK university qualifications while staying in Nepal, the minister opined that this would help prevent brain drain and reduce costs.

She informed that 19 British universities are collaborating with 30 campuses in Nepal, benefiting more than 17,000 Nepali students. Minister Trevelyan stated that the Nepali community in the UK serves as a 'living bridge' between the two countries.

Expressing happiness over individuals of Nepali origin succeeding in local politics and business in the UK, she mentioned that it is a matter of pride that Nepali students going to study in the UK form the sixth largest international group.

She said, 'No nation can fulfill its aspirations without investing in human talent. The UK and Nepal have been collaborating in school education and teacher training for decades. If you want economic growth, you need skills, and you need appropriate training for employment.'

During her visit, Minister Trevelyan held separate meetings with the Ministers of Education, Foreign Affairs, and Finance of Nepal to discuss matters of bilateral interest. She informed that discussions were held on collaboration in areas of basic learning frameworks, girls' education, and special educational support for children with autism.

Minister Trevelyan expressed confidence that the UK will always remain a reliable partner for Nepal's inclusive development, innovation, and prosperity.