honey, i chasing our child a dream should...
TRANSCRIPT
Issue 4, Dec 2013- Jan 2014
BiotechFor a Better life
Honey, I know what
our child should be
Why education is what it is
Outliers
The story of Success
EDUCATION & CAREER ISSUE 4, DEC 2013 JAN 2014
Rs. 50
Chasing a Dream
steps to Fight your Fears6
Journey to Rollins College
Our sister publications
CONTENTS|DEC 2013 JAN 2014
23How I made itLeading You
Forward
The story around
Rato Bangala
was that, even if
you don’t do any
other teachers’
homework, Miss
Perry’s homework
had to be done.
- Pooja Pradhan
28ColumnHoney, I know what
our child should be
Interfering parents
mean well. So do we
listen to our loved
ones or is our way the
rig ht way? - Anubhuti Poudyal
52Study AbroadLiberal Arts Education
in the United States
- Sulav Bhatta
Chasing a Dream
- Shree Raj Shrestha
Swiss Education
Group: Excellence
at Present, Success
for Future- Tshering Ghale
32Scope & SpectrumBiotech for a better Life
34-41Biotechnology was the
science of future when
structure of DNA was first
discovered. But now it
has become science for
today. - Bigyan Rimal
What can you do ?
Possible job
opportunitites in the
biotech career.
- Pooja Pradhan
42 Not a student,
not yet an employee- Anubhuti Poudyal
SKILL FACTORY
288544Foreign students
4thhost country for foreign students
programs taught in English
700
More than
Lowesttuition fees
Alliance Francaise - Kathmandu, Banshi Ghat Marga, Teku road, Tripureshwor, Ph: 4241163, Web: www.alliancefrancaise.org.np
French is not a requirement: Start out in English, Your French will improve as well. Learn French before your departure Feel the French culture and civilization
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68Ask our Experts6 steps to Fight your
Fears & take the
leap- Sneha Agarwal48
Tech World Generate your own
Modem
- Mridula Saria
App Alert
- Siddhartha Pant &
Supral Raj Joshi
46Student EssentialsWishlist
- Pooja Pradhan
71Beyond Education Be the change
- Gita Limbu
Degrading Ethics and
Eroding Happiness
- Dr. Narayan Prasad
Paudel
14Cover FeatureWhy education is
what it is !- Abhushan Gautam
20Number CrunchQuality Vs. Price
- Pooja Pradhan
66The Read
Outliers: The Story
of Success - Nisha Agarwal
CONTENTS|
10The Hub•Sordid tale of
Neglect: Visit to
New Sadle Home
• Opportunities
Galore
• Devs Day
• Team Building
• Rise of Tycoons
• Dashain Fest
• Upcoming Events
College Correspondents 13
1014
INSPIRE, Kupondole, Lalitpur, Nepal. Tel: 501.1571, 501.1639 No. 4 Dec 2013-Jan 2014
Publisher: ECS MEDIA PVT. LTD. Managing Editor: SUNIL SHRESTHA Director, Editorial & Marketing: NRIPENDRA KARMACHARYAGroup Editor: ANIL CHITRAKARSr. Managers, Editorial & Marketing: SUDEEP SHAKYA, NEERAZ KOIRALAEditorial Manager: UTSAV SHAKYAOperations-Executive: ATULYA ACHARYA
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DEC 2013 JAN 2014
Contributors
DR. SAMEER M DIXITIs a research scientist in the area of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health. He works as the Country Director at Center for Molecular Dynamics Nepal (CMDN), Kathmandu. Dr. Dixit advocates for anti-corruption, child education, cycling and overall Good Governance for Nepal.
SNEHA AGRAWALIs a graduate in Applied Psychology (Hons.) from Delhi University, after working at Defence Institute of Psychological Research and Fortis Escorts Heart Institute is currently working as a Psychologists at Norvic Hospital. ([email protected])
BIGYAN RIMALIs a Biotechnology Graduate from Purbanchal University, SANN International College, Ghairidhara, Kathmandu. Currently he is working under a research project of Laser Biotechnology at AGH University of Science and Technology, Krakow, Poland under UNESCO Fellowship. He is also the Office Co-ordinator of Biotechnology and has been involved in various activities of Scientific development inside and outside Nepal. He has also attended and presented in various life-sciences conferences and seminars inside and outside the country.
DR. NARAYAN PRASAD PAUDELIs an Assistant Professor at KUSOM. He has served as Secretary cum Chief Executive Officer, Accounting at Narayan Standards and Auditing Standards Board Nepal; Chairman, Nepal Stock Exchange Ltd (NEPSE), Financial Analyst, Social Welfare Council, Nepal; Internal Auditor, Helvetas Nepal; His areas of Specialization include Financial Management, Portfolio Management, Cost and Management Accounting, and Project Management.
SHREE RAJ SHRESTHAIs a Freshman In Rollins College, Florida. He is majoring in Physics and pursueeing a Artium Baccalaureus Honoris degree. He is a Upward Bound Tutor and a Peer Conted Tutor as well as a member of Making Lives Better, Rollings college- a student organization that has been conducting educational and health related campaigns in Nepal.
TSHERING GHALEIs the Managing Director of Royal Singi Hotel and holds a BA (Hons) degree from Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS, Montreux-Switzerland) & University of Derby (UK). He has over 16 years of international luxury hotel experience with St Regis Hotels & Resorts, Fairmont Raffles International and Marriott International across Europe (Switzerland), Middle East (Abu Dhabi, Cairo, Dubai) and USA (Hawaii & Miami). Prior to coming back home to venture into the family operation, Tshering was the Director of Food & Beverage at the quintessential address of St Regis Princeville Resort in Hawaii.
Editorial
MRIDULA SARIA Editor
Readers’ Say
Samuel Shakya, Student, 3rd year B.A
I’ve been reading inspire since it first came out and I think this is a great idea for a magazine. However, it
sometimes feels like I’m reading a textbook. The design could do a bit better. The surveys are the first thing I always check out when I buy this magazine. I really liked the one where the team talked about Nepal’s
examination schemes. Good work I must say.
Shubechhya Rana Shah, Principle of Buddha Joti School
There are other magazines for school or college goers, but I have found that INSPIRE is one of the only magazine that gives something beyond just
educational information about college. This is one magazine that has articles that children and parents
would both enjoy reading.
Sajun Shrestha, Student, CIMAI enjoyed read the fourth issue of INSPIRE. Like
the other issues this one also has good layout and pictures. The articles were something college going students could enjoy reading and find it useful. The
fact that the articles were well written made the magazine even more of a joy to read. But a small suggestion maybe next time you could focus on
Charter Accounting as a career in your Scope and Spectrum section.
Life has become a rat race, and we have all been running this endless race, without so much as pausing to look back and reflect. We have been following the norm, going with the flow, doing what we are supposed to, and what is expected out of us. Have we ever questioned why things are being done in a certain way?
It is important to study history, in order to plan the future. As we scroll through the history books, the wise and learned have always been people who were well travelled and spoken. Education was a luxury afforded only by the royals, but with the industrial revolution, things changed. Modern education is a result of the needs of the industrial revolution. Now, we are in a different era altogether. Some of us have stepped out of the rat race to question the norm. The world is changing around us, and scientific breakthroughs have revolutionized life. On one end we have featured how the field of Biotech is changing the whole concept of life itself, and on the other end we want to question the whole concept of formal education, and why it is, the way it is. The question is, do we want to continue running this rat race and be one of the products of this educational machinery, or bring about real change by understanding the real cause of education.
Rahul Pradhan, Student, The British College
This was the first time I read INSPIRE, and I have to say that I totally enjoyed reading this magazine. The articles are good, the BlogSpot article was spot on and the Number Crunch section a nice break from
all the text. But maybe in the upcoming issues there could be more articles for students who are doing
their ‘A’ levels as well.
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PAST EVENTS
Sordid tale of Neglect: Visit to New Sadle Home
Devs Day
On the occasion of “Jestha Nagarik Diwas”, October 1, The British College Hatemalo Foundation organized an event to honor senior citizens residing in New Sadle Home, Kapan. The event was commenced by the Mr.Suman Shrestha, Marketing Manager of The British College. A brief induction about TBC Hatemalo Foundation was made by Ms.Safalta Shrestha, founder and coordinator of the foundation; highlighting its main activities and events.
With the theme “Development Solutions through creative and innovative works”, National College, Center for Development Studies held its annual college event, ‘Devs Day’ on the 21st September 2013. Based on the central theme, the students presented their innovative ideas and concepts creatively through
On October 2, the Executive Dean for Faculty of Business, Economics and Law, Professor Leigh Drake of La Trobe University held a press meet in Yak and Yeti to announce a new MBA program and scholarships. The new MBA program “focuses on sustainability, responsible leadership and personal and professional skill development” in addition to the other traditional focuses according to Dean Leigh Drake. In this event they announced that La Trobe School of Business has scholarships worth AUS$ 240,000 for its master’s students studying in their business school.
Opportunities Galore
chart papers, clay models and power point slides. The college faculties and the chief guest then judged these class presentations. Apart from the college students, the event saw participation even from various youth led organizations. At the end of the program, awards were given to the classes under various categories.
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College Correspondent Profiles
Anish KCCollege: National College of Development StudiesProgram: Bachelors in Development FinanceYear of Study: 4th Year
Ashika SharmaCollege: National College of Development StudiesProgram: Bachelors in Development StudiesYear of Study: 2nd Year
Prasanna ShakyaCollege: Little Angles’ College of Management, Bachelor in Hospitality and Tourism ManagementYear of Study: 2nd Year
PAST EVENTS
Dashain Fest
Dashain Fest was held on 2nd October 2013. The main purpose of this event was to celebrate Dashain, playing different kinds of games which are usually played during the festival, thus creating the environment of togetherness.
The event featured various games such as the Tug-o-War, Bingo, Sack race, Jail and so on. The ‘Game of Hearts’ was the major attraction, in which every participant would have a paper heart with them and he/she had to give the heart to another participant upon giving a negative answer to any question asked to him/her. The day was filled with celebration and joy.
Team BuildingTeam Building was the first event organized by the Career Club at Kathmandu College of Management in the new academic year, held on 1st October, 2013. This event was organized with an aim to let all the participants experience and understand that working in a team not only achieves success, but also dynamism and an energy that nurtures individual’s high achievement, and a high degree of job satisfaction. Overall objective of this event was to keep team thinking forward, to where we want to be, and planning how we can get from where we are now to the forward vision.
Rise of Tycoons
Studying business is not limited to learning about 4P’s of marketing or the Japanese way of handling inventory, inside the four walls. There should be more to what students are taught in a business school. Inside the four walls, students learn what the books say, but the business world is not limited to a few hundred pages.
Junior Achiever’s Forum (JA Forum) of KCM successfully organized ‘Rise of the Tycoons’ for the second consecutive year.In this event, a team of five students are to design a product, market that product, and sell them inside the college. A lot of excitement was seen among the students when the event was announced and the engagement of the students was splendid. Students (Tycoons) were distributing questionnaires- surveying the market, identifying the demand. The college notice boards were full of pamphlets showcasing various innovative products - advertising. The closed Facebook groups of KCM students were full of product advertising – social media marketing. The whole college was full of sales persons running around customers saying all those good things about their product. This event developed a different environment and a new economy in the college itself!
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THE HUB|
Yogesh GuragainCollege: Global Academy of Tourism & Hospitality EducationProgram: Bachelors in Tourism & HospitalityYear of Study: 11th Batch in 1st Semester
Reeti SharmaYear: 2 year completed. BA with Economics and Political Science.Lovely Professional University, Punjab, India
Gaurab GhimireCollege: Global Academy of Tourism & Hospitality EducationProgram: Bachelors in Tourism & Hospitality Year of Study: 1st Semester, 11th Batch
Shreya UpadhyayCollege: Thames International College, Freshman, Bachelor in Business Administration
Improving the Quality of Customer Insights/Marketing Research for Decision MakingSome Practical guidelines with Madhav Segal December 1, 2013This seminar, targeted to faculty of marketing from various colleges & organizations. It will focus on maximizing marketing research for making significant decisions
Day Hike to Champa Devi with Paul Josephson and Shahani Singh December 7
A day of outdoor adventure, a chance to bond with fellow Thames students and spend some thinking time related to important issues. The hiking group will leave Thames College early on Saturday, take a bus to Pharping and walk up to Champa Devi and back. The instructors have planned some activities and discussions around local issues that are close to their heart.
Thinkshop for freshmen with QC Bookshop and Word Warriors December 8 – 14
Thinkshop: Lifelong Learning is a five day intensive workshop designed for college students to develop their reading comprehension and critical thinking by improving their written and verbal communication skills. The workshop is conducted by professional writers and requires intensive engagement with selected books. It involves extensive reading, writing, discussions and presentations.
Writing a Business Plan with Jorge Esteban Dec 16 – 21
This course lets those enrolled explore business ideas and move them closer to execution. A short business plan will be created as a project. In this course we will walk through business concepts, discuss how to develop them, and talk about the tools that will help us organize our thoughts and create something that can be implemented.
Patan 101with Nayan Pokhrel January 11 &January 18
The participants of this workshop will explore Patan’s aesthetic and historical richness that oftentimes get missed in the tourist guidebooks. Students may sign up for the Saturday sessions and walk through Patan exploring topics such as architecture, urban space, food and community and the ancient and the modern.
Basic Nutrition with Paul Josephson January 22-23 &January 29-30
Food is central to our life and well-being. In this workshop students will learn about proper nutrition as preventative medicine, the dangers of pesticides and chemical-based agriculture and explore healthy, cheap options that are available in the market.
UPCOMING EVENTS
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Ayushman Tamrakar College: Kathmandu College of ManagementProgram: Bachelor in Business AdministrationYear of Study: 3rd Year
Awishkar LamaCollege: Thames International CollegeFreshman, Bachelor in Information Management
Rajat AgrawalYear: Kathmandu College of Management.Bachelor in Business Information SystemYear of Study: 1st Year
Kartika YadavCollege: Thames International College, Freshman, Bachelor in Social Work and Rural Development
UPCOMING EVENTS
ICTA Academy Training and Conference 2013December 28
Makani Academy (Cyprus & Denmark) and Visionary World present the International Coach and Trainers Association Training Conference in Kathmandu Nepal - “Calling of the future!” The seminar is an international meeting of ideas and knowledge, with the main purpose of bringing coaches, trainers, facilitators, psychologists, counselors, healers, practitioners, HR personnel, entrepreneurs, educationalists and human excellence practitioners under one umbrella of training and coaching. The international forum will have the major themes of improving communications, building better teams, tongue management - a communication of difference, management excellence, motivating the spirit, core coaching and training conference, professional training and coaching development, etc. A bigger conference will take place from 21 December to 7 January.
Upcoming Plans:Book Donation Program: TBC Hatemalo Foundation will be donating books to “Chepang” tribes of Makwanpur district on the first week of December.
Fund Raising Raffle December 24TBC Hatemalo Foundation has launched a campaign to raise fund for our upcoming events with raffle draws. The ticket costs Rs.100 and is available on the college. The drawings will be made on in the college.
Health CampTBC Hatemalo Foundation will be supporting the different social organisations by actively participating in the health camp on second week of December.
TBC Hatemalo Foundation
SET ExhibitionFebruary, 2014
As the name suggests, the Science Environment and Technology Exhibition gives a platform to the students of the college to show their potential ideas and creativeness. A day of education and entertainment, entry is available for any outside visitors. So show up at St Xavier’s College, Maitighar for a day of live music, cultural shows and everything from photo gallery and bottle houses to DIYs.
South Asian Poetry Festival For PeaceDecember 7-8
South Asian Poetry Festival For Peace or SAPFP will be held for two days in Basantapur Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square premises. This festival aims to provide a platform where ideas and thoughts are shared. This is also a space where cultural exchange takes place. The festival will be open for all and will be conducted in open air and we expect participation of a lot of poetry lovers. The festival will also have a publication featuring the poets and their poems.
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COVER FEATURE|COVER FEATURE|
The education arena is a broad one. It encompasses philosophi cal, sociological, administrative, curricular and other issues. Each of these may
have a historical dimension or perspective. In order to understand the contemporary issues related to education, one must delve further into the past. Because it’s the past events that have shaped our present education systems, theories and related phenomenon in the area of education, and formal or modern education in general.
BY ABHUSHAN GAUTAM
Why education iswhat it is!
In simpler terms, if we want to understand why standard schools and colleges exist today, we have to abandon the idea that they are products of logical necessity or scientific insight. They are, instead, products of history. Modern education and schooling, as it exists today, only makes sense if we view it from a historical perspective. And so, as a first step toward explaining why modern education is what it is, we present here, in a nutshell, an outline on the ‘roots’ of education. By doing so, we hope that our readers will be able to better
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COVER FEATURE|COVER FEATURE|
appreciate the role education has been playing in transforming our lives since time immemorial, and across the generations.
NEED FOR EDUCATIONEach generation, since the beginning of human evolution, has found the need to pass on cultural and social values, traditions, morality, religion and skills to the next generation. Education has always been a bridge connecting the old generation to the new. Times having changed, the medium and methods of educating others may have undergone reforms but the essence remains the same.
THE ‘PRIMITIVE’ WAY OF LEARNINGFor hundreds of thousands of years, before the advent of agriculture, people lived as hunter-gatherers. Children in hunter-gatherer clans were taught how to become effective adults by their parents through their own play and exploration. The strong drives in children to play and explore presumably came about, during our evolution as hunter-gatherers, to serve the needs of education. Adults in hunter-gatherer cultures allowed children the freedom to play and explore on their own because they recognized that those activities are children’s natural ways of learning.
CIVILISED LEARNINGThe invention of agriculture, beginning 10,000 years ago in some parts of the world and later in other parts, set in motion a new wave of change in people’s ways of living. The hunter-gatherer way of life had been
skill-intensive and knowledge-intensive, but not labor-intensive. But agriculture gradually changed all that.
With agriculture, people could produce more food, which allowed them to have more children. Agriculture also allowed people (or forced people) to live in permanent dwellings, where their crops were planted, rather than live a nomadic life, and this in turn allowed people to accumulate property. But these changes occurred at a great cost in labor. While hunter-gatherers skillfully harvested what nature had grown, farmers had to plow, plant, cultivate, tend their flocks, and so on. Successful farming required long hours of relatively unskilled, repetitive labor, much of which could be done by children.
Agriculture and the associated ownership of land and accumulation of property also created, for the first time in history, clear status differences. Systems of slavery and other forms of servitude developed. Those with wealth could become even wealthier with the help of others who depended on them for survival. All this culminated with feudalism in the Middle Ages, when society became steeply hierarchical, with a few kings and lords at the top and masses of slaves and serfs at the bottom. The principal lessons that children were taught were obedience, suppression of their own will, and the show of reverence toward lords and masters.
INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION AND LABORWith the rise of industry and of a new bourgeoisie class, feudalism gradually subsided, but this did not immediately improve the lives of most children. Business owners
....we have to abandon the idea that they are products of logical necessity or scientific insight.
They are, instead, products of history.
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COVER FEATURE|
like landowners, needed laborers and could profit by extracting as much work from them as possible with as little compensation as possible. Everyone knows of the exploitation that followed and still exists in many parts of the world. People, including young children, worked most of their waking hours, seven days a week, in beastly conditions, just to survive. The labor of children was moved from fields, where there had at least been sunshine, fresh air, and some opportunities to play, into dark, crowded, dirty factories. In England, overseers of the poor commonly farmed out poor children to factories, where they were treated as slaves.
In sum, for several thousand years after the advent of agriculture, the education of children was, to a considerable degree, a matter of squashing their willfulness in order to make them good laborers. A good child was an obedient child, who suppressed his or her urge to play and explore and dutifully carried out the orders of adult masters. Such education, fortunately, was never fully successful. But the philosophy of education throughout that period, to the degree that it could be articulated, was the opposite of the
philosophy that hunter-gatherers had held for hundreds of thousands of years earlier.
BEGINNINGS OF ‘FORMAL’ EDUCATIONAs industry progressed and became somewhat more automated, the need for child labor declined in some parts of the world. The idea began to spread that childhood should be a time for learning, and schools for children were developed as places of learning. The idea and practice of universal, compulsory public education developed gradually in Europe, from the early 16th century on into the 19th. It was an idea that had many supporters, who all had their own agendas concerning the lessons that children should learn.
Much of the impetus for universal education came from the emerging Protestant religions. Martin Luther declared that salvation depends on each person’s own reading of the Scriptures. Luther and other leaders of the Reformation promoted public education as Christian duty, to save souls from eternal damnation. By the end of the 17th century, Germany, which was the leader in the development of schooling, had laws in most of its states requiring that children attend school;
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COVER FEATURE|
Shreshna Basnet (Editor, Bar Peepal Tree Newspaper-Magazine)
“The of easy access to technology in our education
system measn that we are not producing mere human resources but rather internationally competent human resources. But due to over emphasis on academics and market competition, creative side of students have been overshadowed.”
but the Lutheran church, not the state, run the schools.
In America, in the mid 17th century, Massachusetts became the first colony to mandate schooling. The clearly stated purpose of which was to turn children into good Puritans. Beginning in 1690, children in Massachusetts and adjacent colonies learned to read from the New England Primer. The Primer also included the Lord’s Prayer, the Creed, the Ten Commandments, and various lessons designed to instill in children a fear of God and a sense of duty to their elders.
Employers in industry saw schooling as a way to create better workers. To them, the most crucial lessons were punctuality, following directions, tolerance for long hours of tedious work, and a minimal ability to read and write.
THE WORLD WAR EFFECTAs nations gelled and became more centralized, national leaders saw schooling as means of creating good patriots and future soldiers. To them, the crucial lessons were about the glories of the fatherland, the wondrous achievements and moral virtues of the nation’s founders and leaders, and the necessity to defend the nation from evil forces elsewhere.
THE REFORMISTSInto this mix we must add reformers who truly cared about children, whose messages may ring sympathetically in our ears today. These are people who saw schools as places for protecting children from the damaging forces of the outside world, and for providing children
with the moral and intellectual grounding needed to develop into upstanding, competent adults. But they too had their agenda for what children should learn. Children, they believed, should learn moral lessons and disciplines, such as Latin and mathematics that would exercise their minds and turn them into scholars.
So, everyone involved in the founding and support of schools had a clear view about what lessons children should learn in school. Quite correctly, nobody believed that children left to their own devices, even in a rich setting for learning, would all learn just exactly the lessons that they (the adults) deemed to be so important. All of them saw schooling as inculcation, the implanting of certain truths and ways of thinking into children’s minds. The only known method of inculcation, then as well as now, is forced repetition and testing for memory of what was repeated.
EDUCATION AND PUNISHMENTWith the rise of schooling, people began to think of learning as children’s work. The same power-assertive methods that had been used to make children work in fields and factories were quite naturally transferred to the classroom.
Repetition and memorization of lessons is tedious work for children, whose instincts urge them constantly to play freely and explore the world on their own. Just as children did not adapt readily to laboring in fields and factories, they did not adapt readily to schooling. This was no surprise to the adults involved. By this point in history, the idea that children’s own willfulness had any value
Fr. Amrit Rai, S. J. (Principal, St. Xavier’s School)
“In Nepal only academic talent is given importance
and the rest of the talents are overlooked. Other talents are also equally important for the overall development of a person and nation. Therefore, our curriculum should be based on the Theory of Multiple Intelligence.”
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was pretty well forgotten. Everyone assumed that to make children learn in school the children’s willfulness would have to be beaten out of them. Punishments of all sorts were understood as intrinsic to the educational process. In some schools children were permitted certain periods of play (recess), to allow them to let off steam; but play was not considered to be a vehicle of learning. In the classroom, play was the enemy of learning. The brute force methods long used to keep children on task on the farm or in the factory were transported into schools to make children learn. Some of the underpaid, ill-prepared schoolmasters were clearly sadistic.
CONVENTIONAL SCHOOLING Recently, the methods of schooling have become less harsh, but basic assumptions have not changed. Learning continues to be defined as children’s work, and power assertive means are used to make children do that work. In the 19th and 20th centuries, public schooling gradually evolved toward what we all recognize today as ‘conventional’ schooling. The methods of discipline became more humane, or at least less corporal; the lessons became more secular; the curriculum expanded, as knowledge expanded, to include an ever-growing list of subjects; and the number of hours, days, and years of compulsory schooling increased continuously. School gradually replaced fieldwork, factory work, and domestic chores as the child’s primary job. Just as adults put in their 8-hour day at their place of employment, children today put in their 6-hour day at school, plus another hour
or more of homework, and often more hours of lessons outside of school. Over time, children’s lives have become increasingly defined and structured by the school curriculum. Children now are almost universally identified by their grade in school, much as adults are identified by their job or career.
EDUCATION TODAYSchools today are much less harsh than they were, but certain premises about the nature of learning remain unchanged: Learning is hard work; it is something that children must be forced to do, not something that will happen naturally through children’s self-chosen activities. The specific lessons that children must learn are determined by professional educators, not by children, so education today is still, as much as ever, a matter of inculcation.
Clever educators today might use “play” as a tool to get children to enjoy some of their lessons, and children might be allowed some free playtime at recess (though even this is decreasing in very recent times), but children’s own play is certainly understood as inadequate as a foundation for education. Children whose drive to play is so strong that they can’t sit still for lessons are no longer beaten; instead, they are medicated or boycotted to be failures.
School today is the place where all children learn the distinction that hunter-gatherers never knew--the distinction between ‘work’ and ‘play’.
Jayakar Gauchan (Civil Engineer, GEOCE Consultancy & a parent )
“Education in Nepal has certainly changed, I was first admitted to school
at the age of five in Class one, but children are admitted in Nursery, KG level
at tender age of two. The courses that are followed now are designed to be so hard that a normal child is not able to learn effectively but he/she is given much pressure to learn. All these are negatively impacting children and making them reluctant to go to school. When I went to school I did not have to follow the new educational system, yet I am a successful engineer. For me the big question is “this new education necessary to make a child successful professional?”
COVER FEATURE|
Bikal Sherchan (Cofounder, Exe. Director, Educator & Life Coach, NILD (National Institute for Leadership Development )
“Nothing substantial has changed in the domain of education during the past
40 years.To me, change in education, means change in the teaching-learning process, adopting a holistic approach to body-mind and spiritual development. Teachers are doing their best, but very little is being learnt. Therefore, students are not performing well and have to opt for extra tutorial classes. What has changed is the increase in the volume of contents, design, size and colors of the text books. The size of the building have changed, even the facilities and hike in the tuition and annual. Education is not preparing for a real world.
20 Inspire
NUMBER CRUNCH|
Quality Vs. PriceCOMPILED BY POOJA PRADHAN
STUDENTS
Compared to the quality of education provided, is the price of education in Nepal too high ?
Have you ever been asked to leave an exam because your fees were not paid?
Is your tuition fee too high for the quality of education that you are being given?
Do you feel educational institutes are charging high fees just for a brand name?
76%Said Yes
24%Said No
31% Said Yes
12%Said No
88% Said Yes
69% Said No
Do you feel that your institution focuses mostly on increase of profit, and acts based
on those lines only? 61% - Slightly 24% - Yes 15% - No
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NUMBER CRUNCH|
Teachers
Do you feel educational institutes have started charging high fees for providing branded
education?
Shouldn’t there also be some sort of financial aid for parents with
low economical background, rather
than only giving financial aid for the
class toppers?
33% - Yes 7% - No 40% - Maybe
40% - I don’t think something like this has happened
12%Said No
88% Said Yes
Has the price of education in Nepal drastically increased in the last decade or so?
87%Yes
13%Maybe
0%No
Has the educational sector become more profit based?
Is the quality of education and facilities provided in educational institutes worth the tuition fees
being paid?
42%
29%
29% YesNoMaybe
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
80% Said Yes
20% Said No
80% 20%
There are financial aid available for people with low economic background
The schools do not have to give financial aid
because parents cannot afford the tuition
Is there too much focus on money, ignoring how pulling students out from exams or bulling because of unpaid fees, will affect the students?
22 Inspire
NUMBER CRUNCH|
Parents
Should there be a fixed tuition price for all educational intuitions- different fee for different level ( college, high school,
middle school) ?
Do you feel educational institutes have started charging high fees for providing branded
education? ( does it feel that you are paying for the school’s name rather than the education it is
giving your child?
21%Said No
79% Said Yes
Is the tuition fees in educational institutes justified, provided the quality of education and
facilities provided?
11% - Yes 39% - No 50% - Somewhat
Has the price of education in Nepal drastically increased in the last decade or so?
Do you think the cost of education in Nepal is too high?
89%Yes
89%Slightly
0%No
67% 11% 22%
95% Said Yes
5% Said No
23Inspire
BY POOJA PRADHAN
I t seemed a bit scary to go back and visit her, for who knows she may have changed in the years. She may no longer be the Miss Perry I knew. But my fears
were unfounded. She was still the thin, wry, bespectacled teacher (sans a mug of coffee). Amidst the boisterous Rato Bangala students getting ready for their Dashain break, I discovered that her physical appearance was not the only thing that remained constant.
We, I to be truthful, had always assumed that she had majored in education, so when she married a Nepalese she started teaching in Nepal. Our (my) assumption was far from
Leading You Forward
correct. As a student in Carlton College in Northfield, Minnesota, she majored in Sociology and Anthropology. In her senior year’s winter trimester at Carlton she chose to spend the trimester in Nepal. When she came to Nepal and learnt the language allowing her to communicate with people, she fell in love- with Nepal. And the rest, as clichéd as it sounds, is history.
She had not planned to go directly to graduate school. Instead, she wanted to get some life experience, and figure out what she wanted to do. After coming to Nepal she decided to look for a job, and she “fell into
The story around Rato Bangala was that, even if you don’t do any other teachers’ homework, Miss Perry’s homework had to be done. N ot because everyone was terrified of her, but because she worked so hard planning the classes it seemed wrong to not work as hard yourself.
HOW I MADE IT|
24 Inspire
HOW I MADE IT|
teaching”. Teaching was a profession she was familiar with. Her father was a Physic professor, her mother a lab supervisor at Holy Cross College. Her first job in Nepal was as a teacher in ELI (English Language Institute) USAID’s English program. She taught in the morning shift from July 1989 to December 1990. It was in 1990, during the democracy movement that the students, when protesting the fee hike, physically threatened one of the teachers. When the US embassy learned about the physical threat, they shut down the ELI program, and Miss Perry along with the other teachers was let go.
After her stint in ELI she went on to teach at Rupy’s International. She enjoyed working in Rupy’s International; however due to some problems, she had to leave the job after five years teaching in the “red room” (four-and five-year-olds). Though it pained her to do so because she was not a quitter and has “never quit”, she left Rupy’s International. As for teaching in Rato Bangala, she narrates, she “fell into it” as well.
While working at Rupy’s International she was also working at a winter camp run by Joti Sherchan. It was during one of the winter camps that she met Punyasheel Gautam who was then teaching at Rato Bangala. When she mentioned that she had quit her job at Rupy’s International he persuaded her to join Rato Bangala. After a casual but taxing interview with Shanta and Milan Dixit over breakfast she got a job as a co-teacher for third grade. Though it meant a substantial decrease in her salary she accepted the job. She started teaching at Rato Bangala in 1996, where she taught third grade for a year, then ninth grade the next year. Fast-forward ten years she was also teaching ‘A’ level after teaching ninth and tenth grades for nearly a decade.
Teaching is a taxing job, especially teaching sixteen year olds who think they know everything, and the world is at their feet. Though there are teachers who stick true to their path, there are teachers who
have changed their profession after a decade or so of teaching. As a self proclaimed “conservative at heart” Miss Perry finds it very difficult to change, and this is what she credits as the reason for her being a teacher for so long. But it’s her love for learning and discovering new things, as well as the joy she gets “inspiring other people to have the same passion for learning and rooting out what ever information they want” that motivates her to teach.
When asked about her best achievement she was quick to respond “my daughter because she is so normal and sociable, where as I am not.” But when asked to share her best achievement as a teacher it was difficult for her to pinpoint any particular event.
It’s not that there is no particular event that she can be proud of; on 2012 she won Battey National Educator of the year, an award administered by DePauw University to recognize a teacher who inspired a current DePauw Honor Scholar while attending high school. And the day I interviewed her, she shared, that she received a package from Smith College, which contained an essay where her previous student had called her an inspirational figure. These awards and recognition though mean a lot to her but it is not something she would label as achievements, for they have just made her
A big achievement for her is when she can get students to “subscribe to Word-a-Day, watch Al Jazeera’s documentaries or read the International Herald Tribune every day.”
25Inspire
HOW I MADE IT|
self-conscious about the way she teaches. After winning the award she states that she has started to feel insecure about her teaching and have frequent nightmares about teaching. In theses nightmares she goes, “ to class with a tray, and in the tray I should have a handout for the class but I can t find it. I am throwing everything out in the floor and the kids are looking at me with these huge eyes.”
As a teacher, she discloses that she thinks it’s not what she does during class that is her biggest achievement, but rather how her students have been inspired to change how they “perceive their world”. A big achievement for her is when she can get students to “subscribe to Word-a-Day, watch Al Jazeera’s documentaries or read the International Herald Tribune every day.” Her biggest achievement she continues is, “when I can inspire some kids in my class to be self learners.”
As someone who always gives the best that she can, there are times when she wonders why she chose this particular profession. Doubt usually arises “ when I see utter boredom in my class. After a class like that I walk out of the class thinking, why did I choose teaching?”
What has kept her teaching in Rato Bangala for so long is the fact that she likes
the environment, and her colleagues in Rato Bangala as well as the flexibility the school gives her. She has “toyed” with the idea of becoming an author or uprooting herself and teaching in a different country. What stops her is that she likes her life as it is. For the last couple of years, she has been thinking of going back to school, but then she questions, “What would I do with it (degree)?”
What would she do? That is a good question. With her thirst for information she would indisputably make a great student. But somehow- maybe because I have always seen her as a teacher, I can hardly picture her in the other side of the desk. As she joked she could still be cycling to Rato Bangala even when she is 70. But the ensuing years would be filled, encouraging her students to be self-thinkers and learners with a mind of their own, which they don’t feel shy to share. Something, though they may not remember exactly how it happened, to be treasured.
boredom in my class. After a class like that I walk out of the class thinking, why did I choose teaching?”
What has kept her teaching in Rato Bangala for so long is the fact that she likes
Naaya Aayam Multidisciplinary Institute (NAMI) opens its gates to welcome its students now. NAMI College has been developed
in partnership with The University of Northampton, UK with a purpose of providing world-class education in Nepal. The University of Northampton is one of the leading universities, ranked 47th out of 150 universities in the UK and in 2012 The University of Northampton stood No. 1 for employability in England. NAMI has constructed a state-of-the-art infrastructure following the strict specification and guidelines set by University of Northampton. Since the both BSc programs are offered at NAMI College under joint delivery condition, both NAMI and University of Northampton are going to be jointly involved in teaching. Thus, you can receive a world class education delivered not only by NAMI but also jointly by University of Northampton in Nepal and get British university degree while you are still in Nepal enjoying a state-of-the-art campus spread in 35 ropani of land.
NAMI at this moment is offering two bachelor level courses-BSc Environmental Science
(honors) and BSc Computing(honors). Those getting BSc Environmental Science can focus on Environmental Science, Climate Change, Landscape Ecology and Waste. The students enrolled in the BSc Computing program can focus in Computing, Graphics and Visualization, Internet Technology and Security, Mobile computing and Software Engineering. These two programs are all four year honors programs, with a year of compulsory internship included. This way the students graduating from NAMI will have an edge on their contemporaries since they already have a year of work experience under their belt. NAMI guarantees internship for the students
NAMI College35 Ropani Campus Area in Kathmandu!
ADVERTORIAL|
enrolled, so that students do not have to worry about searching for internships themselves.
NAMI’s partnership with the University of Northampton ensures that the students of NAMI can enjoy many facilities enjoyed by the University of Northampton students as well. NAMI students if inclined can attend University of Northampton after their first year; either for a year or finish their course there. But they will have to pay the tuition fees of University of Northampton. Students in NAMI are also issued University of Northampton students card and they get full access to the university’s online resources like research papers and virtual classes. The classes in NAMI is jointly taught with the University of Northampton, thus teachers from the university will be available to teach at NAMI. The students enrolled in NAMI will also have access to online classes taught by the teachers from University of Northampton. The NAMI faculty will also be closely working with faculty members of the University of Northampton. Interested graduates from NAMI who want to pursue their Masters in University of Northampton are eligible to do so. Unlike international students from international universities NAMI students will not need to give IELTS nor do they need to have a certain
Jorpati-5, Kathmandu, Nepal; P.O.Box No: 6243Phone: 491744 ; Web: www.nami.edu.npEmail: [email protected]
percentage to be eligible to be able to apply to University of Northampton.
Deserving students will also have merit based scholarship and discount opportunities. Students with the best academic records will be eligible to get the merit scholarship or discount. The students have to apply for the scholarship each year, and each year the scholarship will be awarded after the review of the past year’s academic performance. Though the scholarship and fee discount is given to students, both may not be given to the same student. Either the student will get a scholarship or a fee discount.
NAMI knows that academic is not everything, so to ensure that the NAMI students have a well rounded development and NAMI also has extracurricular activities and clubs available. NAMI offers NAMI also boasts a library made with the specification from the University of Northampton with both academic and non academic periodicals and books.
'Principal of NAMI Ram Biresh Mahato with VC of University of Northampton.'
28 Inspire
COLUMN |
Honey, I know whatBY ANUBHUTI POUDYAL
COLUMN |
our child should be!
29Inspire
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If my life were a spiritual story, it would start by God choosing my parents up there in heaven. He gladly handed me over the coolest parents. One of the biggest things
they did was tell me I could come back to them with any problem, and that they would make it right. After saying that, they set me free. So I roamed and lingered and fell down. When I needed them, I asked for help and more than that I knew they loved me albeit my foolishness and despair. Those are my parents but then there are others.
I don’t know how my parents ended up being the way they are. But then parents who hover (way too much) are not a rare sight in our society. As I was beginning to dig our “cultural” side, I came across an article in The Guardian where Donald MacLeod discusses about the “helicopter parents” who hover over their children, through tests, assessments, grades and right through college to first job application, and sadly salary negotiations! No, it couldn’t be a cultural thing. It is a “parent” thing.
All the hovering but why!Now that couldn’t be simple. But it is. They care. Over generations we’ve had people take care of their children changing them from a blob of dependence to actual bone and muscles and brains. It is difficult for parents to believe we can make decisions. So they want to help.
I talked to a group of teen agers and young adults between the ages of 15 to 26. I wanted to see what they felt about their parents’ role in their life. I asked them to be as forthright about their opinion as possible. Some of them asked me to change their names.
“I think they hover because they have ambitions bigger than ours. There are things they wanted in their lives, which they couldn’t attain. So they dream through us. At least that is what I think,” shares Samar*. He has just finished his 12th grade and is in the process of applying to US for further studies.
When parents are the children!Parenting is an art that is learnt through years of experience. Everyone is new at it. We can see how others do it but it is not the same when we do it ourselves. Managing and concluding thoughts of these young people, here are a few things children wish their parents would understand:
They know they have an integral role in our lives.
No matter how big a maverick we are, we all seek for parents’ approval at some level in our lives.
Parents’ praising us goes pretty up there with Nobel Prize or Pearl Jam’s concert tickets.
What they don’t understand:We are worried about our future. Let’s
face it. We don’t want to be alone and broke. We just don’t.
We fight against the world to do what we want to. Having our parents aboard in our plans is immensely satisfactory.
Discouraging words from parents are usually scarring. More than they know.
What do children expect? “We want suggestions from our
parents. We want them to care about
“I think they hover because they have ambitions bigger than ours. There are things
they wanted in their lives, which they couldn’t attain. So they dream through us.”
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Jenisha Manandhar, St Xaviers College “My parents have never forced
any decision on me, well I’ve never
felt as forced . they suggest me regarding choice of career and pros and cons. For ever-so-confused girl like me, suggestions are really helpful. They give the decision of career choice to me with their guidance which I really appreciate.”
Rajani Shakya, a parent “No I don’t like intervening in my
child’s choice of education. I believe we
can only guide them. We shouldn’t force them to study what they don’t like because it would only get them frustrated, which will end in bad results whether in case of studies or not.”
Alina Chhantel, St Xavier’s College “80% of my decisions are made
by my parents. My parents are the
provider of my educational expenses. So they have the power to impose their dreams on me. It is Asian culture to impose the parents’ dreams onto their children. But I feel this should change with time.”
us. But when their decisions clash with ours, we want them to be open to our words as much as theirs. We want them to treat us as responsible individuals instead of people who need constant guidance,” shares Anil Shrestha*. Anil admits to writing about his parents hovering in his career in one of the college essays.
“Support. I want support from my parents in what I do,” shares Ishu Shrestha who is currently pursuing her Bachelors degree in Kathmandu.
“I just want them to help me financially and morally as long as I am a student. I want them
to support me in pursuing my dreams,” says Prajwal Dahal currently studying medicine.
What do parents want?I wanted to get parents’ perspective in
their children’s life. Their role is undeniably huge but is their sense of responsibility hindering instead of pushing their children’s career?
They do not want their children to get hurt. Emotionally, physically and in any other way humanly possible.Children are parents’ biggest asset. A successful child adds value to social status.
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No matter how much parents’ deny it, there is certain pride (or despair) associated with children.
To parents, no interference is too much.
Eyeing the balanceWhere now can we find the balance? While children love independence, parents cannot let go of their role in children’s lives easily. Children on one hand think they know it all, but experience from the parents can be integral in life.
“I want my parents support. I think it is important that they let me choose my own career. But deep down I sought out for their assistance because they do have a lifetime of experience and no matter what, they mean well,” says Niraj Khadka, currently studying Charted Accountancy in Kathmandu.
OptionsAs parents, it is important to give the children options that are good. No one knows the child better than his/her parents. Hence, giving options and treating children as adults who can make good life decisions can mean increased confidence in children. Making parents a part of the decision making process is not just respecting them. When experience is sought out, only good comes out of it.
Mutual Respect“I want my parents to respect me as an individual. When they question all my decisions, I start doubting myself and their
role in my life,” shares Archana Ghimire*, student of Public Health in Kathmandu.
More than social pressurePressurizing children to do better than their friends or someone else’s children is one of the worst things parents can do. It decreases confidence, humiliates the child and in the long run parents lose their child’s respect. The best thing to do is understand the ability and help children hone what they have.
Same goal albeit different pathsNo matter how different the roads are, the destination is the same. Both parents and children want a stable education and career, and a life that is worth living. Instead of going against, try walking together. This might help in ways that are unimaginable.
Parents are the sole providers in children’s lives when they are young. But with time, these children change into young adults, who possess the ability to make big career decisions. Another favor that my parents did was making me believe in hard work. No matter which path I am passionate about, it all comes down to working for what I want to be and where I need to start working from. So, work with your parents. Act like an adult to make them believe you are ready to take decisions. Explore their suggestions and then excel!
“I want my parents to respect me as an individual. When they question all my decisions, I start doubting myself and their role in my life,”
32 Inspire
SCOPE & SPECTRUM |SCOPE & SPECTRUM BIOTECHNOLOGY FEATURE| |
33Inspire
SCOPE & SPECTRUM BIOTECHNOLOGY | FEATURE|
Bill Gates’s said, while he was
addressing the graduates of Harvard
University (world’s no. 1 ranked
university) back in 2007- “Yes, inequity
has been with us forever. But the new tools we
have to cut through complexity have not been
with us forever. They are new — they can help
us make the most of our caring — and that’s
why the future can be different from the past.
The defining and ongoing innovations of this
age — biotechnology, the personal computer,
and the Internet — give us a chance we’ve
never had before to end extreme poverty and
end death from preventable disease.” The
word “Biotechnology” used by him six years
ago played a remarkable role in changing the
paradigm of researches in health, agriculture,
environment and almost all life related areas,
and also helped many to get acquainted with
the very term.Biotechnology was the science of future
when structure of DNA (the functional basis of
life) was first discovered in 1953. But now it has
become science for today. Everything, from the
toilet papers we use, to the fabrics we wear, is
now becoming the product of this technology.
Biotechnology has given answers to a lot of
impossibilities. It has been practiced from old
days, though, the terminology is coined lately.
From making of gundruk (a dried fermented
product from green vegetable) to cloning a
human is all Biotechnology. This is a multi-
disciplinary field. One has to be jack of all to
become a real biotechnologist.
Thousands of soldiers got their life back
during World War II just because Alexander
Fleming discovered penicillin (first ever
discovered antibiotic). The technology in
practice to produce antibiotics, Monoclonal
antibodies (usually used to treat cancer and
other fatal diseases), and vaccines against
fatal viruses like bird flu, swine flu is also
Biotechnology. When Africa was in food crisis,
and the population was growing at an alarming
For a Better LifeBiotechBY BIGYAN RIMAL
34 Inspire
SCOPE & SPECTRUM |BIOTECHNOLOGY | FEATURE
rate, scientists discovered a solution to maintain
the food supply and nutrient deficiency, and
the product developed was the contribution of
Biotechnology, which at present is popularly
known as, Golden Rice. Biotechnology has no
boundaries because this technology directly
deals with life. Introduced back in 2003 at Kathmandu
University, Department of Biotechnology, in
the name B.Tech Biotechnology, this subject
now is taught in seven colleges with affiliations
from four different universities. Biotechnology
courses offered by Kathmandu University
and Purbanchal University in undergraduate
level are 4 years degree but the course that
is offered by Sikkim Manipal Univeristy is
3 years course. In Masters program, three
different institutes offer courses with affiliation
from Kathmandu University and Tribhuvan
University. The meaning of Biotechnology can be
derived from the word itself; Bio- Relating
to life and Technology- the practical
application of knowledge especially in a
particular area. Therefore, Biotechnology
is the practical application of knowledge
about the life forms in this world for the
betterment of mankind. It is a multi-
disciplinary area of study which includes
life, technology, production, management,
marketing ethics and law. For transforming
an idea into some tangible form, i.e. a
product or service, the basic requirement
is the infrastructure. Though we have
tremendous knowledge and expertise, we
are still lacking the infrastructure. Therefore
research and innovations in the field are
not quite substantial at present. In the case
of Biotechnology it is more important to
concentrate on priority based research and
development since, we cannot generate
large sum of money to bolster every single
area of biotechnology at a single time. If we
prioritize the sectors then investment can
be more result oriented and people can
take utmost benefit out of that. For instance,
availability of seeds to the farmers at the
time of need is a gross problem in the
agriculture sector of Nepal, and if we can
use bio-technology to generate seeds in
larger volumes and of good quality then this
problem can be addressed. This example
35Inspire
SCOPE & SPECTRUM BIOTECHNOLOGY | FEATURE|
suggests that R&D in seed development can
be one area of prioritization. Similarly, in
natural conservation sector, Nepal does not
have genetic data of any of its endemic plant
or animal species, even of those already
enlisted in IUCN red list. Therefore, another
area of priority can be constructing the
genetic map of those rare and endanger
species. Or constructing the DNA barcode of
important crop, plant or livestock varieties of
the country. A lot of things need to be done,
and can be done in this particular field.
The only thing we require, is the courage
to take a new step towards challenging the
stereotypes, and living our dream to change.
What Graduates thinkAnuja Paudyal, a biotechnology graduate from
SANN International college shared her feeling
this way-“I feel responsibilities are added
being a graduate. Mixed thoughts are coming
into mind about, whether to stay inside the
country or pursue further education abroad. I
don’t think there are lot tangible opportunities
inside the country at this time but I am very
hopeful about growth of this field to a new
height in near future and the responsibility for
that transformation is in our shoulders.” Those
graduates who are into their own business or
have started their own companies are now in
place of doing competitive businesses. One
of the best examples is Praramva Biotech
Pvt. Ltd., a company owned by few graduates
from Kathmandu Univerisity, Department of
biotechnology. They say-“ There are difficulties
and a crisis of identity at the time of start but
when you are determined and have clear
vision then every hurdles seem feeble and you
can succeed.” Praramva Biotech is now into
the mass cultivation of different varieties of
mushroom and production of Vermi-compost
and the earthworms required for the typical
composting.
What trend setters sayDr. Sameer Mani Dixit, Country Director
of Centre for Molecular Diagnosis Nepal,
seems very optimistic about the scope and
growth of Biotechnology in Nepal’s near
future. According to him the charm towards
biotechnology is gradually decreasing due
to oversupply and lower demand of the
biotechnologists inside the country, this
could be a huge loss to control. He also
requests government and university officials
to stay wary regarding this concern. His
centre is currently involved in research and
development of technology in sectors like
conservation biology, public health, Molecular
mapping of different plant varieties and many
more and he feels proud to be among the
trend setters in this field with challenges but
immense possibilities. He also emphasised
on the initiative of government towards
establishing a National Biotechnology Centre.
He believes once the centre is established
there will be no turn back of this entire
sector, since the centre will mainly focus on
establishing biotechnology industries through
generating demand based technologies.
Deputy-Secretary, Chief of Biotechnology
Section, Department of Plant Resources,
Government of Nepal, Keshari Maiya
Rajkarnikar says-“ We are confined to
tissue culture from two decades. We have
already established the culture protocols
for about 145 plant varieties which include
trees, horticulture plants, medicinal plants,
ornamental plants, orchids, bamboo etc. But
36 Inspire
SCOPE & SPECTRUM | BIOTECHNOLOGY | FEATURE
The government has no policy of recruiting experts in biotechnology fields and the experts do not want to volunteer, they prefer to go abroad for better opportunity
moving ahead from that is a challenge. The
government has no policy of recruiting experts
in biotechnology fields and the experts do not
want to volunteer, they prefer to go abroad
for better opportunity. We have been trying to
establish new molecular biology laboratory
but power and budget problem has always
been a huge problem in research in Nepal.”
Where can career starters go for information
about the subject? Every college offering the course has
their own counseling section. Interested
people can visit respective colleges for
the information. To know more in detail
about what biotechnology is and where the
biotechnology research, development and
industry is going one can also visit www.
ncbi.nlm.gov which is the official website
of National Centre for Biotechnology
Information, USA.
Globalization even in the biotechnology
field means that we do not have to stay
confined to our borders if your country does
not provide proper education, research or
development chances. Life and Science
is all about exploring and nobody knows
what s/he get out of anything; therefore,
try to be global regarding the subjects like
biotechnology because there are more global
scopes compared to what is present in Nepal
currebtly. Once you get how this science can
be used for the development of our country
then everybody can use their expertise for the
development of the country.
There are several student and
professionals associations, forums,
groups which has been actively working
for Biotechnology development inside
the country. These places can be a good
source of information and guidance for the
new comers into the field. One of the oldest
societies of Biotechnologist formed by
biotechnology graduates is Biotechnology
Society of Nepal (BSN). One can find
more information about them on their
website www.bsn.org.np. BSN provides
research counseling, post undergraduate
counseling for university search; organize
seminars, trainings, conferences,
workshops related to biotechnology and
life sciences. Others are Team up and
talk about Biotechnology, Nepal Biotech
Society etc.
37Inspire
In a country like Nepal, where the
concept of biotechnology based
industries is limited and biotechnology is
immature with limited number of skilled
human resources, it is difficult to develop
biotechnological research and industries.
Unfortunately, the innovative ideas
of young scholars and highly trained
scientists coming back from advanced
countries have not been valued.
Subodh K Upadhyaya, MSc, ME (Biotech),Associate Professor,
Dept of Biotechnology, K.U.
Currently, biotechnology is just limited to
academics and research in Nepal. Application
of biotechnology is wide in sectors like
health, environment, agriculture and this
can be attained only if we focus on the
establishment of biotech related industries in
Nepal. Students who want to embark on this
field should focus on developing their own
entrepreneurship rather than looking for a job
after the completion of their study.
Dr. Rajani Malla, Head, Central Department of
Biotechnology
Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur
Prof. Dr. Mukunda Ranjit, Academician, Nepal Academy of
Science and Technology, President, Nepal Biotechnology
Association , Principal and Department Chair, Sann
International College, Executive Chairman, Green Research
and Technology (GREAT), Nepal
SCOPE & SPECTRUM BIOTECHNOLOGY |
Biotechnology is one of the fastest growing
technologies of the 21st century. It has a far
reaching implication for agriculture and food
production, environment protection and
health care.
The Expert Opinion
38 Inspire
SCOPE & SPECTRUM | BIOTECHNOLOGY SCOPE & SPECTRUM | BIOTECHNOLOGY
Biotechnology for developmentStrong possibilities for NepalBY DR SAMEER M DIXIT
Nepal is not new to Biotechnology. In terms of academia, biotechnology entered Nepal as an undergraduate course at Kathmandu University
in 2004. In almost a decade, there are now multiple academic institutions in Nepal teaching Biotechnology as either undergraduate or post graduate degrees.
In terms of application of biotechnology in industry, we are experiencing slow but study rise in this sector. The problem with applied biotechnology is not the knowledge
but rather, the cost associated with it. For example, to set up a basic diagnostics lab in Kathmandu would easily exceed NRs 2 Crores (USD 250,000) not including required human resource and power backup requirements. The costs associated with running the infrastructure can also be quite high, depending on the equipment used and their usage. Similar case can be made for research labs in colleges and universities and R&D labs for industries.
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SCOPE & SPECTRUM BIOTECHNOLOGY |
Pharmaceutical Companies should ideally be utilizing tools of biotechnology for their use, since new drug and vaccine development is primarily the focus of the biotechnology industry these days. In most developed countries as well as developing countries (eg China, Brazil, India), the Research and Development wing of major pharmaceutical companies either have their own labs or outsource work to biotechnology companies or academia. This way, they are ensured of regular development of novel products to gain a market edge. In fact, there is a huge competition between scientists in such R&D sectors to be the first to bring out novel drug targets, vaccines and even diagnostic kits for major disease. Unfortunately, this practice has not reached Nepal. Deurali Janata Pharmaceuticals may be an exception in this case as this pharma giant has in recent years started its own R&D biotechnology division.
Nepal’s biotechnology graduates are either going abroad for further studies and/or career purposes, or working in some of the related industries in the country. The food and beverage industry, hospital and diagnostics laboratories, and academia appear to be some of the main possibilities for the youth in the biotechnology sector. There is also a trend of young entrepreneurs venturing out to start-up companies and starting to show success in this field. The last 5 years has shown a rapid increase in such ventures, ranging from agriculture production to biomedical research.
Government of Nepal recently allowed Biotechnology as an official subject for government job services by way initiating tests Biotechnology in the government services under “Lok Sewa Ayog” (Public Service Commission). This now enables graduates of biotechnology to officially apply for suitable government jobs when advertised. Nepal Academy of Science (NAST), Nepal Agriculture Research Unit (NARC), Central Veterinary Lab (CVL), Department of Plant Research (DPR) are examples of government entities already involved in biotechnology research in the country. In this scenario, possibilities are now increasing for biotechnology graduates in the country.
India and China, Nepal’s two neighbours have not only invested heavily on biotechnology industry (including research and development) but have also benefited from those investments. Both these countries have clearly seen the benefits of biotechnology to humans, animals and the environment in the future and are now actively engaging in research and development towards new products and technologies for the future. Youths in the biotechnology sector should watch both these giants closely and extract information from both, so that same can be applied to Nepal. There is no doubt that biotechnology will play a major role in Nepal’s economy in the future.
The food and beverage industry, hospital and diagnostics laboratories, and academia appear to be some of the main possibilities for the youth in the biotechnology sector.
Lab Research Assistant (part time)• Income: Around Rs 15,000
Responsibility:• Facilitate and design the experiments
for the biotechnology students• Assist the experiment
University Academician• Income: Rs. 500 to Rs. 1,000 per
hour ( but this depends upon the Colleges and University)
Responsibility:• Take biotech classes in
colleges/ universities
Full time research assistant • Income: Around Rs. 20,000 to Rs.
30,000
Responsibility
• Help with the academic research going on in the college or university
Intern• Usually it’s unpaid, but after six
months you can get a paid internship
Responsibility
• Working full time• Can work on ongoing research
What Can You Do ?
Academic
Note:- You can be in any of the sectors mentioned below
Production• Income: Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 30,000
Responsibility
• Involved in one of the process of making and quality control of anti body and other biotech products like vaccines or even dairy products
Bio informatics• Income: Around Rs. 20,000
Responsibility
• Uses knowledge of IT and combines with results from laboratories to enable better understanding of genes and proteins using computer algorithms
Lab Assistant ( in industries)
Responsibility
• Help Facilitate the experiments• Help in the experiment • Income: Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 20,000
Lab Technologist• Income: Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 30,000
Responsibility• Test various forms of bio technology • Perform simple scientific procedure,
collect and record the data• Can also be involved in maintaining
the genetic maps of several plants and animals
• Involve in researches related to molecular biology
• Involve in novel bio-based product research and development
Plant Researcher• Income: Rs. 30,000 above (actually
depends where you work)
Non Academic
SCOPE & SPECTRUM BIOTECHNOLOGY |
Microbiologist• Income: Rs. 35,000 upwards ( also depend on where you work and if you have a government job)
Note- If you have a PhD degree or have a lot of experience your income level will go up
Responsibility
• Test samples of body tissue, blood and fluids to diagnose infection, monitor treatment and track disease outbreaks
• Study how microbes live alongside the living organism in different habitat• Investigate the vital role of microbe in soils
Responsibility
• Researches the health of plants • Determines how disease or parasite affects the
plant and surrounding environment and also helps address any outbreak of any disease
• Genetic analysis• Identifies diffrent species of plants
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SKILL FACTORY|
Not a student, not yet an employee
Remember this transition? When you are done with your college but you do not yet know what to do with your life. The four years of intense course
work hardly prepares you for the work you are planning to do. You might have ambitions, or a vague idea of where the days might take you. But the bottom line remains the same, you have no idea as to what you want and more often than not, no good place to start.
Everyone talks about internship. If you are lucky, the final semester of your college life
BY ANUBHUTI POUDYAL
urges you to take up a “job” where you are expected to learn. While most students consider it more of a hassle than an actual opportunity, I suggest you try a more positive outlook.
WRITINGYou do not have to be a literature student or even an English graduate to like writing. It could come from the corners of your physician heart or even a Mathematician’s hand. Writing goes well with all the
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SKILL FACTORY|
profession. One thing that I learnt in my job as an intern in a writing firm is that it gives you the ability to explore the areas that you actually enjoy writing about. Two things that you learn are – field of your expertise and field of your interest.
If they happen to be the same thing, you’re lucky. But any hitches and you might want to hone your skill. Bluntly put, you will get a better flow in your writing, learn better grammar and end up with better grip of your language.
How can you start Leading daily newspapers in Kathmandu and even private media firms give you an opportunity to intern as a writer. You can visit their websites or even drop in your CV. It won’t harm you if they have your information.
NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONSWhen I first joined this organization, working on HIV and AIDS, I had no idea what I’d be doing. By the end of the internship, I knew how to type in Nepali, my typing speed had increased considerably and I knew more about HIV and AIDS than I ever did. I guess those were some very productive three months of my life.As an intern, you might not have specific job descriptions, but you will end up exposing yourself to a lot of opportunities. Explore yourself when you actually have the option of making mistakes, which you do, as an intern.
How to get startedAlmost all organizations take up interns. You need to drop in your CV with the tentative
date you wish to start. Rest is done by the organization. But it is important to know that the competition is fierce even to be an intern.
MEDIA HOUSESI include media houses because it is quite different from writing. Writing is more personal; you get to work in your own world. But to work as a part of a team that is responsible for editing and crafting an entire magazine/program, you will need more than writing.
You will learn skills like fact checking along with exposures to new software if you are lucky to find the right place. It might even give you an opportunity to talk to people more often, and increase your skills as a communicator.
How to get startedLuckily, Kathmandu has a number of leading media houses, be it television or magazine. Look for the one that suits you. Talk to them about your reponsibilities . Interns might be considered the bottom of the work chain, but you can always change that.
BANKSA number of students join banks for their internship. With their booming market, no one is surprised at the number of interns they take.
“I was very reluctant to join a bank for my internship. But I guess between doing nothing and doing something, the latter always wins. I ended up increasing my people’s skill. It got me used to the 9 to 5 work pattern, and the experience helped me land a good job,” shares Shristi Rayamajhi*.
Nibesh Shakya “I interned in Nepal Airlines for 3-4 months as a
trainee in the HR department. I had
the chance to be involved in developing and doing research work for new polices. I took part in training programs alongside pilots and managers. My internship increased my interested in this field which led me to work as a junior officer in cargo department for Air Asia. The actual practical work taught me a lot about the professional field.”
Sonam Goyal “I joined Dabur Nepal for my internship as I was curious how a
company with so many branches and thousands
of workforces is managed. During my internship, I saw different problems and grievances faced by human resources and its preventive measures and solution. My internship taught me that every action has consequences. I became more responsible. We learned the value of team work and how to work in a team and help each other out. It also built my confidence and gave me practical life experience.”
Pratiksha Joshi “I did my internship at Investment bank. My internship was
not exactly how I expected it to turn out to be. So, I have a mixed reaction to the experience. It showed me what it is like to work in the real world and taught me to handle different situations as well as how to deal with different people. Before I started out my internship, I was an introvert but the experience has built my confidence and can say now that I can handle any situation.”
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SKILL FACTORY|
Internship provides you with valuable work experience and helps you in transition into a job.
Banks might be a good way to discipline yourself for the kind of job you are looking for. The experience you get helps you learn, in more than one way.
How to get startedA number of banks take up interns on a rolling basis. You can drop in your CV or inquire about the process if you want to get in.
ARCHITECTURAL FIRMS “Everything I learnt in the classroom had to be put into use. I didn’t know how to do it. I learnt the wheres and hows of the profession I had chosen only after I started working as
Increase in professional self confidence.
Strongly disagree
Strongly agree
Disagree
Agree
37%
50%
10%
3%
an intern. It is just insane how different working is from studying. They warn you but it still hits you when you enter the “real” world. Internship is like a transition from a student to an employee. It warms you up, and you have a room to make mistakes, which we don’t, once we starting work as an employee,” shares Saloni Shrestha.
She is an architecture student and most of what she says is enlightening. We are rarely warned of the possibilities (and restrictions) real work can bring. Internship means you are still a student working as an employee. This can go a long way.
Internship helps you decide if this is the right career for you.
Strongly agree41%
Disagree7%
Strongly Disagree7%
Agree45%
Your internship experiences create networking opportunities.
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
35%
52%
10%
3%
Strongly agree Agree
DisagreeStrongly disagree
Strongly agree
35%
52%
10%3%
Agree Disagree Strongly disagree
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SKILL FACTORY|
TEN REASONS TO SAY YES TO INTERNSHIP!
CONFIDENCE: You start working; you will know you can do it.
EXPERIENCE: Most first jobs are landed from the work experience you get during internship.
NETWORKING:It keeps you get in touch with the people working in the same field. Trust me that is quite an asset.
INERTIA: It prepares you for the job you want to apply for. The worst thing that can happen in life is not doing well at a job you love. Internship saves you the pain of that happening.
APPLICATION: Application of Knowledge and Intelligence actually. You get a place to try where you are expected to make mistakes. You will learn in life, that it is priceless.
EXPLORE:Are you right for the job (career)? It gives you the first hand experience of what you will be doing so you get to decide for yourself asking that one question.
FUN: Internship is fun. It is learning and growing up. Rather than spend the few months hanging out with friends, you could make some valuable contacts and increase your experience.
TRANSITION: The grown up experience! The world might treat you like a kid but you know you have grown up when you have a job.
STIPEND? Few internships give you salary. It might not be very attractive but it is definitely an incentive to work.
DEVELOPMENT: Build your skills. Internships help you grow as a better employee, and a better person. It makes you a bigger and better version of you.
How to get startedPrivate architectural firms and free lancing architects look for assistance. Look out for opportunities from the beginning. And do not hesitate to ask!
DESIGNINGDesigning is one field where you work more than you learn in the classroom. If you are in a good college for interior designing or fashion designing, you will get an opportunity to come in contact with the people who are looking to hire interns.
In my recent visits to KEC School of designing, I was told how important internship is to the students. It gives you the expertise, the practice and more than that the talent to actually start working as an interior or a fashion designer.
How to get startedStay in touch with people! Designing includes a very small circle of people. You might want to talk to fellow students or even interns who have been working. Networking might help you. But you will still need to apply!
Nothing else, a more matured version for sure!
50%
60%
70%
Improvement in communication skills.
Strongly disagree
Strongly agree
Disagree
Agree
Strongly agree
Strongly disagree
DisagreeAgree0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
64%
3% 3%
30%
Internship is fun. It is learning and growing up. Rather than spend the few months hanging out with friends, you could make some valuable contacts and increase your experience.
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STUDENT ESSENTIALS|
Moustache dust plugNrs. 120
There are times you don’t listen to music or have a something plugged in your phones docking port. But these are the times that dust and small objects can damage the port. These dust plugs help you to prevent just that. Made with PVC material, the dust plug is suitable for any docking port that is 3.5mm wide . (Item available to purchase from machhabhyaguta.com)
Sticky NotesNrs. 75 - 200
A bit low tech but still a very effective weapon in a student’s arsenal . Use it to make notes and stick it in your copy or text books. Or stick it all over your room with reminders of things to do and places to go. But be a bit more creative and adventurous; choose a different shade than the normal pastel shade or the mundane square shape.
You can find it in almost every stationery shop
Sugru Hacking PuttyNrs. 1,795
You might have faced this repeatedly, that your wires might have broken or you may have broken or cracked something you would rather not throw. Sugru Hacking Putty is the answer to all these problems. A putty as a name suggests can be mold adaptor fix anything that you want. This waterproof putty hardens in about 24 hours but still remains flexible enough for you to use it, to join wirers.
USB DrivePrice depends on the memory space and the brand
Everyone uses computers and we all know how easy USB Drives makes our lives easier letting us transfer files. USB Drives, Flash Drives, Pen Drives are super useful tools for everyone, student and office goers alike. But ditch the same one rectangular shaped USB Drive. Instead, go for ones with funky shapes like keys, or your favorite cartoon character, and let your personality shine through.
(You can buy them at any computer accessories store, or if you want one shaped like a key or angry bird, visit aliexpress.com)
WishlistCOMPILED BY POOJA PRADHAN
Grabbed your pen? Your satchel? Your notebook? But have you ever thought of grabbing an unusual product that could change your life with its usefulness.
dust p
n to music or have a
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stick of things to do and
d adventuroul shade
utty
d thithiss
ken keng you ow.is se
ant.y
s ou rs.
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Lips power portable chargerNrs. 1,200
This portable charger is every student’s birthday wish coming true. Not only is it stylish but this charger supports any cell phone, TabletPC, MP3, MP4 as well as game and Bluetooth headset. Its compact design means that you can fit it in your pocket or any bag.
(Item available to purchase from machhabhyaguta.com)
Book light panelNrs. 250
Reading in the dark, be in your room, outdoors or during load shedding has never been easier with this led light book panel. Portable and lightweight, all you have to do is place on your book, and continue reading it.
(Item available to purchase from machhabhyaguta.com)
Canon lens coffee mugNrs. 1,350
Who says coffee mugs have to be boring? And if people do believe it’s so, then prove them wrong with this coffee cup. Mimicking a Cannon macro lens this cup will certainly make people take notice. Made from stainless steel and food grade PVC it is safe for you.
(Item available to purchase from machhabhyaguta.com)
g
(Item available to purchase from machhabhyaguta.com)
BananasGrab it from your home; you won’t have to pay anything for it. But you will be thankful that you did. Eat it as a snack when you are hungry and there is no store in site, or eat it when you need a energy boot. A Banana in your bag can be your best idea. But make your you treat it correctly or you will end up with mashed up Bananas that’s all over your bag and none in your stomach.
OFFBEAT SUGGESTION
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n t have to pay be thankful that you
hen you are hungry and there or eat it when you need a energy
na in your bag can be your best idea. e your you treat it correctly or you will end mashed up Bananas that’s all over your
one in your stomach.
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TECH WORLD TIPS & TRICKS|
They say necessity drives creativity. My creativity leaped all hurdles, when I was stuck in the airport with no Internet access on my laptop. I had a choice
between getting fired for forgetting to mail an important document to my boss, or missing my flight. I kept thinking of all these ways to transfer that file from my laptop to the phone, so that I could mail it across. I tried to use
Generate your
BY MRIDULA SARIA
Have you ever been stuck in a situation when you have to mail that important document from your laptop, and you have no access to the Internet, well except of course the 3G on your ph one.
Bluetooth to transfer, but the file was too big for my phone. I even considered first backing up all my phone data on the laptop to make space for that file. How complicated can technology get ? It was supposed to make your life easier, right?
I kept fiddling with all the settings on my android, hoping for some miracle to happen. Sometimes fate has its own way of giving you just what you need. I knew I found something when I saw the icon ‘Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot’ staring back at me.
I know most airports have Wi-Fi access nowadays, but this doesn’t imply for airports alone. You can be stuck anywhere, at a train station, sometimes even at home, when your Wi-Fi connection decides to give up on you. Somehow your 3G more often than not, remains faithful to you.
Just a few simple steps to convert your phone into a Wi-Fi hotspot.
ANDROID1. Go to settings2. Under the Wireless and network tab- Click
on more settings3. Under the Network tab, go to Tethering and
portable hotspot4. Switch on the Portable Wi-Fi hotspot5. You can choose between Allow all devices
or Only allowed devices (add the list of allowed devices by detecting them)6. You can also configure the settings to set up a password so as to avoid every random person around looking for Internet, from draining your phone data.
own modem
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IPHONE1. Go to settings 2. Go to personal
hotspot under settings
3. Turn on personal hotspot
TECH WORLD | TIPS & TRICKS
1
1
WARNING : Be careful of draining out your phone data, if you
have a limited data plan. Switch off any
downloads running on your laptop.
2
2
3
4 5
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TECH WORLD GIZMOS|
App AlertBY SIDDHARTHA PANT & SUPRAL RAJ JOSHI
iTunes U: Are you constantly looking for ways to satisfy your intellectual curiosities? How about satisfying your quest of knowledge with educational materials and lectures from the finest universities and educators in the world for FREE? iTunes U is a free iPhone, iPad and iTouch compatible app which allows access to complete courses encompassing a wide range of disciplines and is claimed to be ‘the world’s largest online catalog of free education content.’
iTunes U allows educators to post courses and learners to access them accordingly. Over 800 colleges and universities from around the world provide educational content to iTunes U users, including some of the very finest such as Harvard and Stanford!
And, after all nothing could be more handy to access this superior content than a phone or a tablet. It really couldn’t have gotten any sweeter, could it?
Sing Karaoke!Karaoke has established itself as a great means of entertainment. But until very recently, constant access to karaoke was more of a luxury to most people around the world, and this revolution must certainly be ascribed to apps.
Sing Karaoke! is an android and iOS compatible app which offers a huge catalog of karoke songs covering a range of genres. Even if you are not the best of singers, the voice enhancement technology in this app will make you feel considerably satisfied with your signing. As far as the costing goes, downloading the app is free but to make full use of this app you will have to subscribe, for very moderate prices though. Whether you plan to use this app for entertainment or to enhance your singing, take my word, you won’t regret grabbing it from the App store or Google Play.
SAT Word A DayYou do know that besides countless hours on “Candy Crush Saga”, your smartphone can also provide you opportunities for learning, right? If you are up for learning new vocabulary, SAT Word A Day by Aurora App Design, has a good approach towards enhancing it. Learn a new word each day. Everyday, once the clock strikes 12AM, a new word along with its meaning (and use in a sentence) appears on your notification panel and stays there for the whole day. If it wasn’t for this app, I wouldn’t have known what ‘panacea’ or ‘perfidious’ meant!
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Sparknotes:Most of us, at some point, have taken help from Sparknotes to complete our assignments and I would wager almost all of us had a pleasant experience overall. To people who are not familiar with Sparknotes, it is one of the most comprehensive online guides, especially for high school students. Though it is most often used as guide to studying literate, its notes in other subject areas are also pretty good. And, for those trying to crack the SATs, they have an awesome FREE guide. Sounds good? But this has gotten even better. This amazing online website has also come in the form of a FREE app on our smartphones and is compatible on both Android and iOS.
You might be inclined to think that this might not be too useful in Nepal because you don’t always have access to Wi-Fi. But they have gotten around this problem by allowing its users to download guides for offline use!
PocketPocket is for anyone who finds an interesting article on the Internet, and just doesn’t have the time to read it at that moment, be it news, articles or videos. The app lets you ‘read it later’, as the tagline goes. When you come across something interesting, while browsing the Internet, that you’d want to read, just pocket it. Access pocket later at your spare time, even when there is no Internet connection. It’s like quickly gathering everything you’d want to read, for times when there is nothing to do but read, for instance, insanely long power cuts. The clean interface makes reading on Pocket so much more convenient.
Hotspot Shield VPNThis app is for all ‘delinquents’, juveniles and adults alike, who just can’t tolerate the fact that their principal or their boss has denied them access to facebook at school, or at work. Hotspot Shield VPN grants you the ability to access “private, secure, uncensored” Internet, whether access is restricted by the server computer or your ISP. Making use of the Virtual Private Network (VPN), it claims to protect your device’s identity on the Internet. The free version comes with pop-up ads though, but I guess, that’s only a small price to pay for the big jackpot.
TECH WORLD GIZMOS|
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Liberal Arts Education in the United StatesBY SULAV BHATTA ( STUDENT ADVISER/INFORMATION OFFICER, USEF-NEPAL )
Taking classes across disciplines is the hallmark of a liberal arts education whose goals are to promote a wide spectrum of knowledge in addition to majoring in a subject.
STUDY ABROAD|
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I f you are someone who is interested in studying in the U.S., you might have heard these phrases: “U.S. education is based on liberal arts
philosophy- Liberal arts is the beauty of U.S. higher education...” If you do not know what liberal arts means, you are not alone. For a student in Nepal, where we are required to choose our field of study immediately after grade 10, liberal arts education is an alien concept. For instance, to hear that an engineering student in the U.S. is also taking music class for the fulfillment of his Bachelor’s degree requirements sounds quite strange. However, taking classes across disciplines is the hallmark of a liberal arts education whose goals are to promote a wide spectrum of knowledge in addition to majoring in a subject.
The majority of jobs that high school graduates will be taking on four years
|STUDY ABROAD
from now have not been invented yet! How can college education prepare you for such an uncertain job market? The answer to this question might lie within the liberal arts curriculum of the U.S. Liberal Arts, which actually stands for Liberal Arts and Sciences, and it involves a broad general education curriculum in literature, language, philosophy, social sciences, mathematics, history, psychology, and sciences. According to the U.S. News & World Report (2012 Edition), there are over 250 liberal arts institutions in the U.S. However, even the non liberal arts institutions in the U.S. are somewhat inspired by the liberal arts curriculum.
The history of liberal arts institutions dates back to the inception of democracy in the U.S. Hence, liberal arts colleges are founded on the principle of American ideals. Liberal Arts education focuses on developing your critical thinking, analytical reasoning, leadership, and written and oral communication skills. These skills will prepare you for the changing landscape of today’s job market. As a result of liberal arts education, you will be more likely to accept change, be creative, and adapt to a new environment. These skills are of utmost importance in the world we live in today.
There are many distinctive features of liberal arts institutions that set them apart from other types of institutions. The following six factors will help you to further understand the liberal arts education in the U.S.:
Small Student Population and Focus on Undergraduate EducationMost liberal arts institutions keep their student bodies below 3,000 students. As a result, there is a very strong sense of community feeling among students and faculty members. Unlike some big universities, liberal arts institutions are committed to undergraduate education, and the classes are taught by the professors themselves (rather than by graduate assistants as is the case at many larger universities). The faculties at liberal arts institutions love to teach and student-teacher interaction is
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if you are someone who is not sure about your major or someone who wants to
acquire a broad and diverse education at the bachelor’s level, liberal arts education might
be your answer.
STUDY ABROAD|
encouraged. As a result, international students can greatly benefit from such an environment.
Focus on Skills DevelopmentLiberal arts institutions aim to provide all-rounded education to their students so that these students can be responsible citizens later on. These colleges focus on analytical, communication and leadership skills, which are crucial in today’s world, no matter what profession you choose. Your future employees will value these skills, and you will be better prepared for all your future endeavors.
FlexibilityFlexibility to experiment with different courses is yet another beauty of liberal arts education. If you are not sure about what you want to major in (and it’s perfectly normal to be in this situation!), you will thrive in a liberal arts institution. Liberal arts philosophy encourages experimenting with different subjects so that you can pick a major that truly interests you. You will have up to two years to decide on your major. You will have a wide range of courses to choose from, and you can have a combination of courses that you had never even imagined of. For instance, you may be majoring in chemical engineering, but you can also take some classes on Greek mythology at the same time!
Preparation for Graduate SchoolIn the U.S., undergraduate education is mostly focused on general education
and specialization usually happens at the graduate level. The skills set you acquire from the liberal arts studies at undergraduate level will prepare you for the rigor of graduate school. Many students who attend liberal arts institutions are successful in securing admissions at competitive graduate and professional schools. Graduate and professional schools seem to value the liberal arts background in applicants.
Generous Financial AidBecause of small undergraduate student population, it is comparatively difficult to get into a liberal arts college. Furthermore, since most of these institutions are private, they are expensive compared to public institutions. However, liberal arts colleges are well known for their financial aid awards. Many Nepalese students who get into liberal arts institutions secure enviable financial aid. Therefore, generous financial aid awards at the liberal arts colleges is another reason for the popularity of liberal arts institutions among international students.
Valued by Prospective EmployersToday’s employers value adaptability, good communication skills, problem solving skills, creativity and the likes. All these skills are nurtured at liberal arts institutions. Although liberal arts education does not usually prepare you for a specific profession, it does equip you with the practical skills that employers value. According to a recent
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(January 2013) survey of CEOs by the Association of American Colleges and Universities, 74% of the 320 business leaders surveyed emphasized liberal arts education to create a ‘dynamic’ workforce. This survey further highlights the continued relevance of liberal arts education.
If you are bent on pursuing a specific professional degree like nursing, engineering or accounting, a broad liberal arts education might not be right for you. However, if you are someone who is not sure about your major or someone who wants to acquire a broad and diverse education at the bachelor’s level, liberal arts education might be your answer. You do have a major when you graduate from a liberal arts institution; however, a broad general education in humanities, social sciences, philosophy, and sciences is also emphasized. Opponents of liberal arts education often criticize the lack of focus and specialization at liberal arts institutions; however, they
often overcome these limitations by collaborating with other institutions or organizations to provide some degree of practical vocational training to their students.
Liberal arts education is as relevant today as it was yesterday. This is evident from the preference of the employers in hiring liberal arts graduates. In addition, graduates of liberal arts institutions also have a history of excelling in their careers or further studies. If you are someone who likes a small residential college environment, who is a can-do type and who thrives in being involved in your community, liberal arts might be the right choice for you. If you find liberal arts education appealing for yourself after reading this article, you should consider it.
USEF-Nepal’s EducationUSA Advising Center offers accurate, reliable, unbiased, and free information and advice and is the only official source in Nepal on studying in the USA. Visit us in Gyaneswor, Kathmandu. ‘Like’ USEF on Facebook at www.facebook.com/usef.nepal and subscribe to our e-group by sending a blank email to [email protected].
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What does it take to obtain full
scholarship in the United States?”
Many of you might be pondering
over this question. I too had the
same curiosity about two years back. Frankly,
there is no definite answer to this question, but
there were certainly a few things I did right.
And there are some things that I wish I could
change.Success never comes easy, sometimes it
does for some, and sometimes you might have
to wait. I did. I waited two years of my life and
now, finally, I can call myself a student again.
It sure was a hard wait though – my mom
always used to scream at me—
“SHREE!!!! (Hajur)… Kati hallera baschas!
(Halleko chaina k mommy) CHUPP!!!! Bihe
garne bela vaisakyo, tero padhai ko tungo
kaile lagcha! Khuru khuru Pulchowk jane
aba!” Despite my mom’s sweet words, I never
gave up my persistence to apply to the United
States. It is not that education in Nepal is
not up to the mark - some courses in Nepal
can be more challenging than courses in the
USA– but the research opportunities in Nepal
were scarce. But this did not match my career
goals. Since I was a child, stars and planets
always took the best of my interest and I was
BY SHREE RAJ SHRESTHA
Chasing a Dream
What you need to know before, during and after your
application to the United States
ready to take the risk of having a huge gap
in my academics if that was what it took
for me to chase my dream. It sometimes
gives me shivers thinking what would
have happened if things had not worked
out. If I could have changed anything, I
would definitely have at least filled the
application form of Pulchowk , as it would
have saved me from all the stress of not
having a backup plan.
Before you apply: Weigh your risk or at least
have a backup plan!Please do not be scared or withdrawn
from my previous statement. The one thing
“
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STUDY ABROAD COLLEGE 101|
I realized is that I was not alone. There
are thousands of high school students
in Nepal who are taking, or have taken
the same decision. A country as small as
Nepal, ranks eleventh in active international
student population in the entire United
States, so the capabilities of a Nepalese
student is undoubtedly strong. However,
proper guidance, research, and information
on applying to the United States is very
essential. The advisers at USEF have my
gratitude for guiding me through the whole
application process. If it had not been for
the Opportunity Funding Program at USEF,
I would have still been taking a gap year
trying to make money for my application
cost. And not to forget, I made a lot of
friends there to whom I am equally grateful,
for giving me a chance to learn from them.
Once you’ve decided: Use the information at
USEF –the more you go, the more you know
So basically what I was doing, was trying
to sell myself to a person in the other side
of the world who would need a fair number
of reasons to invest thousands of dollars
on me, and I had to do it with a few pages
of application that would serve as my
identity. The personal statement
is perhaps the most important
component of the whole
application. No pressure intended.
Frankly, I was unable to sleep at nights
thinking about what to write in my personal
statement. Feeling pressured never helped
at all but what did help was starting to
write it a few months before the application
deadline.
While you apply: Be sure not to stress yourself
out too muchThe most grueling time is when you are
waiting for the decision. Staring at the
college web-portal and pressing the
refresh button every minute, an hour before
the decision is released does not help.
Trust me! Instead, going out with friends
and having a good time helps veer your
attention away.
After you apply: Take a deep breath and sing
“All is well”On the side note: My mom is happy now and
I am too. I feel blessed to be a part of Rollins
College, and I never feel tired of saying this,
“Dreams really do come true!”
Shree Raj Shrestha is a freshman at Rollins
College, Florida, USA. He plans to major in
Physics.Articles in this section are written by former
advisees of USEF-Nepal’s Edu cationUSA
Advising Center located in Gyaneswor,
Kathmandu. USEF provides students in
Nepal with accurate, reliable, unbiased,
and free information and advice on U.S.
higher education.
Frankly, I was unable to sleep at nights thinking
about what to write in my personal statement.
Feeling pressured never helped at all but what did
help was starting to write it a few months before the application deadline.
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Student Perspectives ProgramTommorrow’s Leaders
C/O Three Sixty Education Solutions Pvt. Ltd.Prudent Building, 4th Floor, Kamaladi Ganesthan, Kathmandu, NepalTel: 977 1 4222844, 4251404, Web: www.pacasia.org
PERSONAL DETAILS
Name: Prithul Jung KarkiCity and Country of Origin: Kathmandu, Nepal
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STUDIES
• Where are you currently studying? - Colby-Sawyer College
• What are you currently studying? - Business Administration Major and a Business Psychology minor
ABOUT YOUR FUTURE
• What do you want to be doing upon your graduation?- After graduation I am looking forward for my master’s degree in a reputed university in the USA.
• Where do you see yourself in five years?- Five years from now I see myself back in Nepal with my degree preparing to set up my own business and back to doing social work to help my country develop.
• Why did you choose to study in USA?- One of the basic reasons for choosing USA for studies is its education system and Liberal Arts education. The other reason I am here is that the amount of scholarship they offer for international and deserving students makes the education affordable.
• Why did you choose to study at CSC? - The first reason I would say is its diversified education system. CSC is a small college and it focuses on individual care to students as its Teacher student ratio of 1:13
• How do you think studying at CSC has helped you?- The whole educating system is different than one back home. It basically focuses on practical method which has made me more analytical. It has certainly my public speaking and writing skills. Moreover Liberal Art education helps you experiment with the course you want to choose and help you gain knowledge out of your major.
• What are you thoughts about New London, NH?- New London is a great town, tough small, it’s beautiful. People over here are so nice and generous. Sometimes you feel guilty because of people being so nice to you. It feels like I was here from ever. Except from the weather, it is one of the best place to live in.
ABOUT YOUR UNIVERSITYPERSONALITY
• How would your friends/ Family describe you in three words? - Cheerful, Mature and Reliable
• What do you like to do when you are not studying? - Social activism, reading books, playing cricket
• Name one thing that most people don’t know about you: - I get nervous very fast because I take things seriously
ADVERTORIAL |
60 Inspire
BY TSHERING GHALE
There’s an art to hospitality that goes beyond a receptionists’ duly preferred Colgate smile and the first meeting’s impression of welcome. Such has been put to education by the Swiss historically in their schools for Hospitality and Hotel Management and nobody knows this better than the Swiss Education Group (SEG), a hotel management education network comprising of César Ritz Colleges, IHTTI School of Hotel Management & Design, Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland, Hotel Institute Montreux (HIM) and Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS).
SEG has trained some of the world’s best hoteliers in their craft for over 20 years. How has SEG managed to get its graduates into some of the world’s best hotels, in little over 2 decades? The answer lies in the group’s policy
Swiss Education Group
combining institutional diversity, practical rigor and accreditation. With the CEO, Mr. Florent Rondez’ visit to Nepal, earlier this year, he exclaims on the beauty and wealth of attractions the country has to offer but also relates directly to the quality of education and training needed for our services to match par. “It is indeed very important where local young talents who get educated abroad with very high quality standards colleges or universities within the Hospitality field and can return to Nepal to set-up the standards for the next decade in terms of services provided to an ever more demanding crowd of travelers. Switzerland not only offers high quality education but also an exposure to the world, openness to other cultures, and expertise in the hospitality education for over 120 years. Evolving and studying in an international
STUDY ABROAD|
Excellence at Present, Success for Future
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STUDY ABROAD |
environment is an advantage that will benefit any graduate in his/her future career”
Founded in 1992 where each campus operated independently and competed directly with one another, as SEG they have ensured each campus now complements one another through the diversity of courses offered says Guy Peters, Recruitment & Marketing Director, Asia Pacific. Each campus’ courses are designed where they focus on a single element of a related aspect in Hospitality and Hotel Management e.g. IHTTI in Neuchatel focuses on Design Management whereas César Ritz Colleges stresses International Hospitality and Tourism Management. SEG maintains and delivers high standards of academic programs along with a high degree of academic and professional support. Besides the main academic program, students are also required to undertake elective classes i.e. a foreign language classes (French, German, Spanish). In the Culinary Arts Academy, students may specialize in Pastry and Chocolate Arts. Students enrolled in the Diploma /Higher Diploma programs are also required to complete two, six month internships in order to graduate. What makes SEG campuses above the rest and gives their students and graduates an edge over others, is that they excel in giving students specific skills, and are taught with an emphasis of learning-by-doing. SEG also has a high quality of accreditation whereby graduates receive multiple degrees or certifications from industry related professional bodies i.e. a graduate from SHMS would have had four professional certifications- a certificate, a diploma, a higher diploma and a professional BA degree from Swiss, United Kingdom and
USA. Such international accreditation is not only recognized by employers but also helps students gain the traction needed to start an international career within the industry.
The success of SEG lies in its alumni and recruitment networks and they have been doing exactly that- building its alumni base and network of recruiters. Each graduate is enrolled into their alumni program from where they are kept in touch with other SEG alumni as well as the school.On events such as the Bi-annual International Recruitment Forum- an event where over 70 employers attended earlier this year and over 2500 interviews were conducted over a two day event, SEG students were put directly in contact with employers and alumni, allowing for a cross junction of talent across various industries helping majority of students find jobs within their chosen industry. While other options and destinations are available to study Hospitality Management where the costs may appear to be reasonably lower e.g. India, Malaysia, Thailand, Australia. It is the investment and the more probable returns on finding the traction and success to an international career with accreditation gained by being a SEG graduate, equipped with theoretical knowledge, practical experience and a well built resume to achieve success in what is already a rigorous and competitive industry.
With SEG offering diverse and specialized courses in education, its campus life is also what makes the distinction. According to Mr. Rondez “none of the campuses have more than 600 students. The relationship you build in the schools are forever preparing students with the depth, character, maturity and global awareness much needed to succeed
The success of SEG lies in its alumni and recruitment networks and they have been doing
exactly that- building its alumni base and network of recruiters.
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within the industry.” SEG graduates are not only guided, educated and trained to adapt easily into a professionally rigorous program, but are also equipped with a plethora of skills and experience that makes them high potential recruits around the globe. It has a proven track record evident of their graduates’ success even from Nepal.
While SEG and its respective campuses continue to make waves both within Switzerland and Internationally with graduates and alumni succeeding across the globe, it is most likely that other hotel schools will follow the footsteps of SEG’s guided principles and consortiums. SEG continues to market themselves as leaders of education within the industry and Nepal is no exception. Mr. Rondez exclaims “Talented SEG graduates while returning to their home country Nepal, will bring a very valuable asset back to rebuild the nation’s reputation of being a rich tourism destination. They will be equipped to cater to the most demanding type of tourists/clientele, possess a new dimension in their thinking and approach towards product and service. They will have the ability to speak/comprehend multiple languages and at the same time have an appreciation of other cultures. This ensures that while back in Nepal, a SEG graduate will be able to put in practice
STUDY ABROAD|
all of these elements and definitely contribute immensely towards the development of the industry within the country”
While Nepal sees a flurry of restaurants, hotels and resorts open and close through the years, and with the announcements of international upcoming properties, what the industry needs are leaders who recognize the need for a certain level of service in both quality and consistency and can deliver these standards through their team within their establishments. Benchmarking the standards of products is easy, as procurement and access to the international market is at disposal to entrepreneurs and organizations. Mr. Rondez comments “Knowing what service is and being able to establish them is not something that can be bought but one needs to learn it either academically or through practical experience. As a SEG graduate, one is not only educated and trained about service academically but through it is able to gather first-hand experience by working amongst luxury or leading industry operators across diverse genres of the industry. This knowledge brought, taught, shared and implemented in Nepal will allow for the service to elevate to the next level. The improvement for the industry in Nepal is limitless- it needs more future graduates with such knowledge, it needs more leaders that are driven by excellence for success to be achieved tomorrow”
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THE READ REVIEW|
OutliersTHE STORY OF SUCCESS
BY NISHA AGARWAL
In today’s world many parents have an idea of what is required for
success. Parents spend so much time worrying about what school
their child attends, which college he/she goes to and which company
he/she bags his first job in.
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THE READ REVIEW|
We have always heard that “hard
work leads to success”. Well it is
true that without hard work, success
might remain just a faint idea in the
head, but w hat they didn’t tell us was “Hard
work alone doesn’t always lead to success.”
Most of us know it now and for those of us who
don’t, Malcolm Gladwell is here.
“How did you realize that this
is that one field which interests
you”? “What did you do to get to
this level?” A standard question asked
by most interviewers while interviewing the
efficacious people of any field. And here comes
the reply – “I spent a lot of my childhood time
practicing the sport/ the instrument/ doing the
activity which I excel at today.” And we think,
“No t again we won’t buy this same answer
from every successful person.”
“What does she write in her answer sheet
that she always tops the exam; I wonder. Just
once if I could have a peek at her answer
sheet; next it would be me who would top
and not her.” A conversation heard very often
amongst students who are there in the top ten
rank holders of the class but unable to achieve
extraordinary result.
“How to achieve success in
your academics /career”? A
question which haunts most students who
want to flourish in their respective fields.
Some of the readers would like to answer
this one with:- 1) Hard Work 2) Intelligence
3)………. Another question that is on the top of our
minds is “How to keep ourselves Healthy and
free of diseases?” Some of you can’t resist the
temptation of trying to answer this in your
mind and the answers would start with 1)
Exercise regularly 2) Eat a healthy diet 3)
Have a sound sleep
Yes, each one of you who has the above
options in mind does have the right answer
but Malcolm Gladwell answers the above
two questions a bit differently and also
backs his answers with research in his third
book named ‘OUTLIERS’.
AT A QUICK GLANCEIn today’s world many parents have an idea
of what is required for success. Parents
spend so much time worrying about what
school their child attends, which college
he/she goes to and which company he/
she bags his first job in. They don’t believe
their child can overcome a bad school,
or even an average one. And yet when
they look back years later on their child’s
success — or their own — they tend toward
explanations that focus on the individual.
Gladwell exposes the flaws in these
success stories we tell ourselves. He
directs the readers towards explanations,
which we either do not take notice of or
choose to ignore.
without hard work, success might remain just a faint idea in the head, but w hat they didn’t tell us was “Hard work alone doesn’t always lead to success.”
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THE READ REVIEW|
{THE BIG IDEA “Outliers are those who have been given
opportunities — and who have had the
strength and presence of mind to seize
them.” He propagates the fact that:
• For sound health and a disease free life,
it is not just the hours of exercise and
presence of a balanced diet which helps
a person but also the close knit communal
ties, joint family structure and the amount
of socializing one does.
Much like homes in Nepal; the author
justifies his claims with homes in Roseto,
which had three generations of people living
under one roof. They took time out to talk
to each other, cook for each other, to go for
mass regularly, which insulated them from
the pressures of the modern world.
• It is not the brightest that succeed. He
explains the importance of parental
heritage, Birth time, location advantage
and status in determining a person’s
success in academics and career
achievement.
The rest of the book Gladwell explains the
formation of OUTLIERS (reasons why certain
people are extraordinarily successful than
most of the others) in the society. Unlike the
normal saying he attributes the success of
these “OUTLIERS” to not only hard work
or extraordinary talent but also to the person
being at the right place at the right time.
DO NOT MISS!In today’s world, with the availability of so
many options for courses, companies and
careers we see youngsters switching careers
and jobs way too often. Ironical as it may
sound but Malcolm Gladwell emphasizes the
importance of spending huge number of hours
in the activity that you want to succeed in.
This he illustrates with the success of Bill Gates
who had spent well more than 10,000 hours as a
programmer by the time he turned 20.
“No one who can rise before
dawn three hundred sixty days
a years fails to make his family
rich.”With the above quote he also emphasizes
the importance of rising early to reach the
10,000 hours quick.
“Outliers” is a pleasure to read and once
you put it down it leaves you mullying over
its theories for days afterward. There are
instances where he gives answers to some
problems that even Nepal is facing. I will
request the readers to take notice of the
solution to the public education system in
Nepal. Having read Outliers, I can’t wait to get hold
of a copy of “David and Goliath”; his recently
released fourth book WHICH IS ABOUT
Underdogs, Misfits and the Art of Battling Giants.
INTERESTING FACTS
In ‘Outliers’ Malcolm Gladwell researches, analyses
the pattern behind extremely successful people/
group of people, and gives a reasonable explanation
to their extraordinary success. He illustrates his
findings with examples of Microsoft co-founder- Bill
Gates, Steve Jobs, The Beatles.
The publication debuted at number one on the
bestseller lists for The New York Times and The Globe
and Mail, holding the position on the former for
eleven consecutive weeks.
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ASK OUR EXPERTS|
steps to Fight your Fears & take the leap6 “Think Well, Act well, Feel Well, Be Well”“Fear, not the lack of good ideas, “keeps a person standing on the sideline.” - Andy StanleyBY SNEHA AGARWAL
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ASK OUR EXPERTS |
Fear is nothing but a huge barrier that blocks us from moving ahead in our lives and achieving our goal. It has the power to fuel your dreams or destroy them. So fight that fear and take it as a means to move into new opportunities with caution.
1Recognize Your Fear: The first step is the most difficult step. Many of us deny, ignore
or do not acknowledge our fear, as “ignorance is bliss”. This is no solution, as many dreams die because we are afraid of taking steps to pursue it. Acknowledge your fear first as it will help you gain some insight. You can do this by simply writing down about your fear or talking to your family members or friends about it. Make a journal as it will help you to keep a track on your progress towards conquering your fear and will serve as a guide next time.
2 Define its shape/figure: You should approach your fear with a beginning and
an end. The more clearly you can see it, the more effectively you will be able to handle it. You can do this by simply answering a few questions:• What is the history of your fear? Did it begin
with a negative experience?• What triggers your fear?• How does it affect you? Does it cause you to
stay in bed instead of getting up and going to a class you’re afraid of failing?
• Is the source of your fear actually dangerous? For example, when you are afraid to ride that totally extreme roller coaster in the theme park even though all your friends are doing it, your fear may be inhibiting you. If you are healthy and in the correct age range, you can freely ride a coaster without worrying about getting hurt.
Answering these questions will help you figure out ways to deal with your fear.
3 Consider All Possible Outcomes: Many people experience fear of failure
because they fear the unknown. So evaluate all potential outcomes and even the worst. This will help you evaluate ways to overcome your fear and also motivate you to reach your goal. Try using mantras like Yes I Can Do It or Its Possible, I Can Beat This.
4 Confront your Fear: Now that you are aware of your fear and also of the
outcomes, the best way to overcome your fear is to face it. Just Go For It! Sometimes confronting your fear directly is the best way to overcome them. One can also start with setting small goals and taking small steps. Try exposing to it in small dosses as you can gain a better understanding and your fear begins to disappear. Face your fear again and again until you overcome it.
5 Fight Fear With Courage & Ignore Negativity: Be Positive, think Positive.
Positive thinking is a very strong way to build your self-confidence and ignore negativity. However, that does not mean you keep your head in the sand and ignore life’s less pleasant situations. Courage is a powerful weapon to fight fear. Just have confidence within yourself to show the courage to fight fear.
6 Learn from your failure and celebrate your success: Every failure shows that
you have tried something to achieve your dream. Regardless of how well you plan, you will meet failure at some point. Instead of being disappointed, discover your mistakes and improve upon them. Always have a back up plan. Make a note of every small success you achieve in overcoming your fear.
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ASK OUR EXPERTS|
Kripa Rajkarnikar, B.Com student at IGNOU , Delhi University and a biking enthusiast
Sujit Rokka ChhetriA self-employed engineer who loves visiting new places and hiking
Samar ManandharEvent Manager of Monster Bash (Events & Entertainment)
Fear is something that arises due to one main reason: unpreparedness. In life I’ve learnt that when a person doesn’t plan, fear can easily take over the mind. If I happen to come across a featureful situation, I try to handle it in a systematic way. First, I’ll try to analyze the source of fear. After that, I brain storm on the possible mitigation and take alternative actions. Having a long conversation with my best friend has also worked out for me when it comes to handling fear.
Whenever I encounter a situation I am sacred of there is a mantra I repeat to myself- I must not fear. Fear is the mind-killer. Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration. I will face my fear. I will permit it to pass over me and through me. And when it has gone past I will turn the inner eye to see its path. Where the fear has gone there will be nothing. Only I will remain. This help me control my fear enough to face whatever I am scared of.
The ones who don’t fear are the ones who can change the world. But you need to be determined and have patience.You will get there when you are meant to get there. Don’t let your fear rule your life.Try to overcome it by having faith in yourself and let your faith be bigger than your fear,it will definitely lead you to success.
What They Say
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BEYOND EDUCATION|
Be the changeTeach for Nepal is an ambition, a movement to end education inequality in Nepal. What sets apart the influential organization in the Nepali context? Is this the next best thing in education?
TEXT BY GITA LIMBU
One day, all children in Nepal will attain excellent education
It’s a resounding vision held by Teach for Nepal, a movement to end
education inequality in Nepal between private and public (government) schools.
While inspired by the American counterpart, in that the best youths in the country are selected to teach in under-resourced schools around the country during a 2-year
commitment, Teach for Nepal offers something extra to the plate, i.e. being strongly community focused. Fellows (essentially teachers) are taught to understand the different issues that children face, by working with parents, existing teachers as well as their students. Second year fellows must complete what’s called “my community, my responsibility”, a community-based project where they identify different community
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What TFN does then is encouraging the best young minds that have gone on to do degrees in aforementioned fields to join teaching. These individuals are given a platform to experience teaching as a career.
needs affecting education and implement a structural solution.
Expect changeYes, it is too early to tell what kind of changes TFN will bring about as it is a budding company. Fellows have been deployed about 5 months from the Nepali academic year (Baisakh) and already encouraging results have been seen. There are many stories that Shisir Khanal, CEO of TFN, has to share. For example, there’s the story where some grade 9 children can’t write their names in English. Then, there’s a child who used to score zero in math but now scores 12 and above. Another is of grade 8 children who can barely differentiate between the alphabets B and D. Changes noticed may seem miniscule but hold monumental meaning. They parrot the budding success of TFN.
Creating leadersTFN is a non-traditional teacher program, in the way they’re trying to understand the problems prevalent in the Nepali context. One is that students are not encouraged to pursue a degree in education owing to the perception that education lies in the bottom rung of the prestige ladder. Post SLC, students are opting to do medicine, engineering and business studies. What TFN does then is encouraging the best young minds that have gone on to do degrees in aforementioned fields to join teaching. These individuals are given a platform to experience teaching as a career.
The 2-year fellowship program aims to create leaders, the social innovators who will see children in rural areas walking 3 hours
each to and fro school, starting tired and hungry before class, and implementing an afternoon meal program so learning is not affected by lethargy. There is hope that in the long term, these individuals can create solutions that have a bigger long term impact in our country.
The 5%Currently taking applications for fifty fellows for the next academic year, TFN assures that the application takes a long time in search for the best of the best. The first round constitutes reviewing the applications received, and then calling selected people for a 30-40 - minute one-on-one interview. The second round is an all-day assessment process where applicants are grouped to do simulation teaching and critical thinking assessments. Finally, there is the hour and a half long interview after which, the final fifty are picked.
Bright futureMost of the fellows are Bachelor graduates so many go on to pursue their Masters. Being part of a prestigious network means fellows get recognition in top universities abroad. TFN is also working with private institutions to create job opportunities locally.
BEYOND EDUCATION|
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Degrading Ethics and Eroding Happiness BY DR. NARAYAN PRASAD PAUDEL, (PH.D, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, KUSOM )
Ethics and happiness are interrelated with each other. Ethics has a positive impact on an individual’s happiness. More ethical the leader is, happier the
public are and vice versa. There are more daily negative incidents than
positive ones because of the degrading ethics in our society. Some of the major negative incidence includes domestic violence with
regard to child and woman, murder, rape, adulteration in the consumable goods etc. Deterioration in ethics in every segment of our society has resulted into the aforementioned unmanageable problems and ill activities.
Compared to a few years back, both the private and public sector has a steady growth. This growth indicates that the enterprising and entrepreneurship is moving forward, this
BEYOND EDUCATION|
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BEYOND EDUCATION|
has further raised the hope and aspiration of employability among the youths. On the one hand, there is an increase in the number of new jobs, but the market is faced with severe shortage of disciplined, qualified and trained manpower, who can meet the domestic and global demand and challenges. On the other hand private corporations are not operating at the expected level of ethical standards, in terms of delivery of quality product and services, to their customers.
While the consumers’ concern for a product’s quality standards has been raised day by day, but the suppliers are rarely aware of it. Several studies have substantiated that the customers’ expectations are increasing day after day due to awareness at local, national and international level. Thus the domestic institutions should start thinking about developing and maintaining the quality standards of their product and services. The, question arises how can they raise the standards of their output? Who should be responsible for that and to who should be accountable? Is it a group or an individual’s effort to boost up the entire level of quality of product and services throughout the country? I should say it is a group effort and it can only be done if we work together to plan, implement, monitor and evaluate the output.
If the self disciplined and self motivated workers have an increase level of autonomy in decision making at individual level, we could improve the quality of products. Whether it is the government, public or private entities, each are required to make
their own goal of improvement in their human resources.
As a man progresses to his so called career level and level of his so called financial achievement, he becomes more indiscipline and unethical to maximize his own welfare and try to hurt the innocent people. So, where is the problem? We can argue that the problem lies on the perception of self as a more valuable unit. Most people perceive themselves to be better educated, knowledgeable, experience and of higher value than others. Individuals, globally put a higher value to themselves and less to others. This scenario should be positively transformed to assign equal value to everyone. The weaker section of the society should be conscious enough and start to improve their value at so that it comes on par with the others and feel proud of being themselves.
Most leaders tend to treat their subordinate like commodities, assigning value only to themselves and their family. They rarely care about the happiness of their juniors and their family. Thus, the lack of mutual trust and mutual understanding which it generates has ultimately resulted in the loss of productivity and earning power and the loss of credibility of the entities as well. We need to transform the relationship of the leaders and subordinates, the management and employees to enhance the productivity and credibility of the entities. This will be reflected in the form of increased quality of the product and services of the entities.
Most people perceive themselves to be better educated, knowledgeable,
experience and of higher value than others. Individuals, globally put a higher value to
themselves and less to others.
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BEYOND EDUCATION|
Consumers want quality consumable goods, but their needs and wants are not being met by the public and private institutions. This can be seen by the emerging issue of the bird flu contamination and gross negligence in the health of the public.
Our health and educational system has similar problems with the quality of service it provides. Most of the health institutions are lagging behind in their expected standards of services compared to their service fees. Though people are suffering before and after reaching the hospitals, they are still being charged unwanted and unreasonably high fees for sub standard products and services. Many of the patient they become victim of the sub standards health services, medicine and other facilities along with the inhumanly behavior of health workers. This indicates that the health sector is also not free from the degrading level of ethics.
Our education system also has a similar problem. We have many private and public
education institutions offering different level of education program, under different levels of cost structure. Quality education should be the right of all the citizens, but the current scenario is completely opposite to how it’s supposed to be. We can notice the gradual reduction in the quality of education in most of the higher education institutions. This could be due to the degradation of ethics across the teaching community. Thus, the teachers rarely give emphasis on improving their own academic standards and they rarely care about the academic standards of their students. Universities are not able to attract the talented pool of students due to their degrading credibility in the market. This has caused huge number of Nepalese students going out in search of finding education.
Why is the credibility of the many higher education programs degrading despite of heavy government and private investment? There are many factors responsible, but the most important reason is that the authorities
77Inspire
BEYOND EDUCATION|
of the universities are appointed by the government, based on the recommendation of the political parties. And the political parties nominate the politically motivated but academically less committed people for the position of academic leadership. Those who get appointment in the said position would ultimately appoint the professors and teachers based on their political inclination and favor rather than academic rigor of the teacher. The authority figure and the teacher would remain loyal towards those who have given them the opportunity rather showing loyalty towards the students. The quality of the academic program, thus, falls due to increasing political influence and less ethical behavior of the authorities. Thus, the students who want to get uninterrupted quality higher education are let down, increasing level of frustration and anxiety across the student community and general public.
The leaders and the political parties are sticking on outdated political ideology and principles rather than having their own vision and development agendas. All the political parties they are putting themselves and their personal agendas always ahead of the interest of the general public. They are pretending to talk truthfully in front of the general public and fulfill their commitment on development and prosperity; but in reality they are making false promises and commitment and are attempting to cheat the innocent person. This has resulted into frustration, anxiety and anger across the wider community and consequently the level of happiness of the common people is decreasing.
The government has also cheated the general public by not providing genuine and high quality health services, basic and high quality educational facilities and a sense of security in most part of the country, considering the amount of tax paid by the public. Emergence of massive and rampant corruption, nepotism and favoritism, delay in public services has resulted into massive erosion of ethics in the government sector. Youth are forced to leave the country to find employment. This brain drain is causing our country to lose the productive force that can construct our country.
The major reason of the growing dissatisfaction and eroding level of ethics is due to the growing level of selfishness and greed among the leaders and pathfinders of every segment of our society. The majority of the population of the country are desperately waiting and eagerly watching for some sort of improvement. Honest and truthful behavior could create and sustain happiness. Peace and love in our lives can be achieved by minimizing unwanted greed and starting to love others as well. Degrading ethics eroding happiness is sure to give rise to more frustration, injustice and inequality that would result into further conflict and instability in our human society.
The government has also cheated the general public by not providing genuine and high quality health services, basic and high quality educational facilities and a sense of security in most part of the country, considering the amount of tax paid by the public
Issue 4, Dec 2013- Jan 2014
BiotechFor a Better life
Honey, I know what
our child should be
Why education is what it is
Outliers
The story of Success
EDUCATION & CAREER ISSUE 4, DEC 2013 JAN 2014
Rs. 50
Chasing a Dream
steps to Fight your Fears6
Journey to Rollins College