Education Minister Pledges to End Political Interference in Universities

Kathmandu. Minister for Education and Sports, Sasmita Pokharel, has expressed commitment to completely end the politicization prevailing in universities.  

Addressing the flag-hoisting ceremony organized on the occasion of the 67th anniversary of Tribhuvan University on Thursday, he stated that universities would be made free from political interference within the next four years.

Minister Pokharel, who is also the Vice-Chairman of the University Council, clarified that in the coming days, the university team would be formed based on meritocracy and capability, not on political quotas. He asserted that there would be no political interference of any kind in the university henceforth, and the practice of exerting political pressure for administrative tasks such as appointments, transfers, or promotions would end.

Minister Pokharel mentioned that the ministry is determined to improve the academic environment of the university and urged to immediately inform the ministry if any political pressure arises from anywhere. He stated that the government would provide full security to prevent undue pressure from one's own party or any other political party and to protect the autonomy of the university.

Speaking at the program, Minister Pokharel said that the politicization in universities, which has been happening until now, would be completely ended within the next four years. 'Now the leadership and team of the university will be built on the basis of meritocracy, not on the basis of quota politics,' he said, 'There will be no political interference of any kind in the university anymore. Decisions on who to place where, transfers, promotions, or appointments will not be made based on political pressure.'

Urging to inform the ministry if political pressure arises, he added, 'If any kind of political pressure comes, please inform the Ministry of Education immediately. We will work with the commitment to advance the university based on meritocracy.'

Stating that he is always ready to resist pressure from his own party or any other party, Minister Pokharel pledged that all decisions in the university would be based on merit. He also reiterated his commitment to work above political interests for the overall improvement of the university.