Feb 08, Kathmandu- Five universities in Nepal have signed a memorandum of understanding to promote academic collaboration and research partnerships.

The agreement was signed between Far Western University, Midwestern University, Nepal Open University, Purbanchal University, and Lumbini Technical University.

The aim is to improve the quality of higher education through research, student and faculty exchange, and interdisciplinary programs between the universities.

According to the agreement, the universities will cooperate in the development of postgraduate research projects, faculty, staff, and student exchange programs, and joint educational programs. In addition, they will jointly organize seminars, conferences, and research projects, as well as exchange educational resources and publications.

The agreement was signed by the Vice Chancellor of Far Western University, Prof. Dr. Hemraj Pant, Vice Chancellor of Midwestern University, Prof. Dr. Dhruv Kumar Gautam, Vice Chancellor of Nepal Open University, Prof. Dr. Shilu Manandhar, Vice Chancellor of Purbanchal University, Prof. Dr. Biju Kumar Thapaliya, and Vice Chancellor of Lumbini Technical University, Prof. Dr. Binod Prasad Dhakal.

The registrars of all five universities were present as witnesses to the agreement. Prof. Dr. Yagya Raj Pathak of Far Western University, Prof. Dr. Shobhakhar Kandel of Midwestern University, Prof. Dr. Govinda Singh Bista of Nepal Open University, Neelmani Pokharel of Purbanchal University and Rez Bahadur Bhandari of Lumbini Technical University were present at the agreement ceremony. They also expressed their commitment to make the collaboration more effective.

The initial contract period is five years and the provision is mentioned that it will be automatically renewed every five years. If a university wishes to withdraw from the agreement, it must give at least six months' notice. The agreement was signed at an international conference held at Sudurpaschim University.

According to university officials, this partnership will add a new dimension to the field of education and research in Nepal, promote collaboration at the national and international levels, and increase learning and innovation opportunities for students and teachers.