EDUCATION NEWS IN NEPAL
Tribhuvan University (TU), Nepal’s oldest and largest university, has simplified the process for obtaining degree equivalence from internationally ranked universities. Previously, the equivalence process was criticized for being overly complicated and time-consuming.
In a meeting held on August 30, 2022, the TU Executive Council revised its policies regarding the recognition and granting of degree equivalence. Bishnu Aryal, chief of the Secretariat of the Executive Council, emphasized the need for a more straightforward approach. The new guidelines aim to make the process smoother for students who have studied at globally recognized universities.
Under the revised policy, students seeking equivalence need only provide documents specifying their university’s rank in the Times Higher Education World University Ranking, from 1 to 500. This eliminates the previous requirement to investigate intellectual theft when granting such titles.
Sushil Dahal, chief of the equivalence section of the Curriculum Development Center, highlighted that admission eligibility, study duration, credit hours, and course load would no longer be obstacles to equivalence. However, it’s crucial that all documentation remains accurate.
Dahal clarified that qualifications earned through online and private education in fields like science, technology, engineering, medicine, forestry, agriculture, and information technology will not be recognized. Additionally, the requirement for universities within Nepal to seek equivalence from TU has been removed.
Previously, students who returned to Nepal with degrees from domestic and foreign universities faced challenges in the equivalence process. Chief Aryal acknowledged these concerns and stated that TU aims to address them by simplifying the process.
Aryal emphasized TU’s commitment to fulfilling the government’s responsibility and adopting good university practices. The university will now consider admission eligibility, study duration, credit hours, and tuition when providing equivalence to degrees from other universities, both foreign and domestic.
Furthermore, Schedule 2, which required multiple documents, has been eliminated for its impracticality. This change benefits both students and staff entering TU’s service, as they will receive degree equivalence before employment.
According to the revised procedure, various universities in Nepal are authorized to recognize domestic and foreign qualifications and establish equivalence and grading through respective Acts. TU will provide degree equivalence to students applying to the TU Service Commission or enrolling for studies at TU. However, it will also offer equivalence upon request from the Nepal government, provincial government, local bodies, or other organizations.
It’s worth noting that MPhil and PhD degrees obtained through open and distance learning methods will not be recognized under the new policy. This move is a significant step toward streamlining the process and ensuring fairness for all students seeking degree equivalence at Tribhuvan University.
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