Kathmandu University (KU) organized an interaction program on November 27, 2024, at its Central Campus. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Bhola Thapa, engaged with PhD scholars, along with the Registrar, Deans, Associate Deans, Professors, Directors, and faculty members. The event was coordinated by the Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Directorate under the leadership of Acting Director Mr. Brijesh Adhikary, highlighting KU’s growing PhD program, which now accommodates 280 scholars, with 203 graduates to date.
Key Highlights:
- Current PhD Landscape: Various schools shared updates on enrollments, funding, publications, and future plans. Notable achievements include:
- School of Education: Largest number of enrollments in 2024, achieving significant publication milestones.
- School of Science: High publication output and robust PhD candidate support.
- School of Engineering: Initiatives like article-based theses, dual-degree programs, and postdoctoral guidelines.
- School of Arts, Medical Sciences, and Management: Focused efforts on research quality, facilities, and collaborative opportunities.
- School of Law: Preparing to enroll its first batch of PhD candidates.
- Feedback from Candidates: Scholars requested an internal PhD conference, a centralized portal, ethical review mechanisms, and better access to international journals and advanced equipment.
- KU’s Commitments:
- Vice Chancellor Prof Bhola Thapa emphasized KU’s commitment to incorporating feedback, promoting interdisciplinary research, and prioritizing ethical review processes. He stressed knowledge transfer, research dissemination, and enhanced support for PhD candidates.
- Registrar Prof. Achyut Prasad Wagle underscored the need for a standardized PhD process, reduced completion delays, and increased visibility of scholars.
This interaction program underscores KU’s dedication to advancing its research ecosystem and encouraging academic excellence.