The Vice Chancellors’ Special Symposium is a prominent highlight of the 18th N.E.W.S. Conference, designed to bring together distinguished academic leaders from universities in Nepal. Keynote speakers will include influential figures in education policy and renowned scholars from various fields. This symposium will provide a unique platform for vice chancellors and senior administrators to engage in high-level discussions about the evolving landscape of higher education. Participants will also have opportunities to network and form collaborative initiatives beyond the symposium.
The goal is to foster collaboration, share best practices, and explore innovative strategies for addressing contemporary challenges in academia. In addition, workshops will be held to address specific themes and facilitate hands-on learning experiences. The symposium will focus on critical issues such as the quality, accessibility, and impact of higher education, and will aim to strengthen international partnerships among higher education institutions.We anticipate that the outcomes of the symposium will contribute positively to the future of higher education in Nepal and beyond.
Prof. Dr. Dev Raj Adhikari
Chairman, University Grants Commission
Prof. Dr. Dev Raj Adhikari
Chairman, University Grants Commission
Prof. Dr. Devraj Adhikari, the esteemed Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC) Nepal, is a visionary leader in higher education with decades of academic and administrative experience. Dr. Adhikari is a distinguished scholar in his field who has played a pivotal role in shaping policies that enhance the quality, accessibility, and global integration of Nepal’s higher education system. Under his leadership, UGC Nepal has championed initiatives that foster academic excellence, promote research, and strengthen collaboration between universities, both regionally and internationally. His dedication to advancing educational frameworks aligns seamlessly with the themes of innovation, cooperation, and development highlighted at the 18th N.E.W.S. Conference. Prof. Dr. Adhikari’s insights and expertise promise to inspire and enrich discussions on the transformative role of higher education in regional cooperation and development.
- Email: [email protected]
Prof. Dr. Bed Raj KC
VC, Pokhara University
Prof. Dr. Bed Raj KC
VC, Pokhara University
Prof. Dr. Bed Raj KC, the Vice-Chancellor of Pokhara University, is a distinguished academic leader with extensive experience in physics and higher education management. Prior to his appointment as the 7th Vice-Chancellor on December 19, 2024. Prof. Dr. KC served as a professor of Physics at Tribhuvan University and held the position of president of the Nepal Progressive Professors Association. He is also an active member of the Nepali Congress. His leadership is anticipated to drive significant academic and institutional advancements at Pokhara University. Prof. Dr. KC is also scheduled to attend the 18th N.E.W.S. Conference and Vice-Chancellors' Symposium 2025 at Lumbini Buddhist University, where he will engage with fellow academic leaders to discuss the future of higher education in Nepal.
- Email: [email protected]
Prof. Dr. Amar Prasad Yadav
VC, Rajarshi Janak University
Prof. Dr. Amar Prasad Yadav
VC, Rajarshi Janak University
Prof. Dr. Amar Prasad Yadav, the Vice Chancellor of Rajarshi Janak University, is a distinguished academic and an influential leader in higher education in Nepal. With a rich background in academic administration and research, Dr. Yadav has been at the forefront of driving transformative changes in education, particularly focusing on regional development and institutional excellence.
Under his visionary leadership, Rajarshi Janak University has embraced innovative approaches to education, fostering collaboration with national and international institutions. His efforts have significantly contributed to the growth of higher education in Nepal, emphasizing accessibility, quality, and sustainability.
As a speaker at the 18th N.E.W.S. Conference, Prof. Dr. Yadav will bring invaluable insights into the role of higher education in fostering regional cooperation and development. His expertise and leadership will inspire participants to explore innovative solutions and collaborative strategies for addressing the challenges of modern education and development.
- Email: [email protected]
Prof. Dr. Dhurba Kumar Gautam
VC, Mid-West University
Prof. Dr. Dhurba Kumar Gautam
VC, Mid-West University
Prof. Dr. Dhurba Kumar Gautam, the Vice Chancellor of Mid-West University, Surkhet, Nepal, is a highly regarded academic leader and visionary in the field of higher education. With an extensive background in academia and administration, Dr. Gautam has been instrumental in steering Mid-West University towards innovation, academic excellence, and impactful regional engagement.
Dr. Gautam’s leadership has focused on integrating education with the socio-economic needs of the mid-western region of Nepal, promoting research, and fostering partnerships with institutions at both the national and international levels. His efforts have greatly contributed to making Mid-West University a center of learning and innovation.
At the 18th N.E.W.S. Conference, Prof. Dr. Gautam will share his valuable perspectives on the role of higher education in regional cooperation and sustainable development. His insights and expertise will inspire participants to envision transformative educational practices and collaborative strategies for the future.
- Email: [email protected]
Prof. Dr. Biju Kumar Thapaliya
VC, Purbanchal University
Prof. Dr. Biju Kumar Thapaliya
VC, Purbanchal University
Prof. Dr. Biju Kumar Thapalia, the Vice-Chancellor of Purbanchal University, is a distinguished academician with over 25 years of experience in academia and administration. An alumnus of Molde University, Norway, he holds an MS in Logistics and a PhD in Supply Chain Management. Prior to his current role, he served as the Dean of the Faculty of Management at Purbanchal University and has been actively involved in fostering industry-academia linkages, including establishing the first Incubation Center in Nepal's eastern region. Prof. Dr. Thapalia is also the President of the Management Association of Nepal, Koshi Province Chapter, and has multiple publications in internationally reputed journals. He will be attending the 18th N.E.W.S. Conference and Vice-Chancellors' Symposium 2025 at Lumbini Buddhist University, contributing his insights on higher education's role in regional development.
Prof. Dr. Dhaneshwar Nepal
VC, Nepal Sanskrit University
Prof. Dr. Dhaneshwar Nepal
VC, Nepal Sanskrit University
Prof. Dr. Dhaneshwar Nepal, a distinguished academic in the field of astrology, has been appointed as the Vice-Chancellor of Nepal Sanskrit University. Prior to this role, he served as the Head of Astrology and held the position of Controller of Examinations at the university, showcasing his extensive administrative experience. His appointment, made by Prime Minister in December 2024, was the result of a rigorous selection process among 13 contenders. Prof. Dr. Nepal's leadership is anticipated to usher in a new era of development at Nepal Sanskrit University, which is dedicated to promoting Sanskrit education and traditional knowledge systems in Nepal. He is also scheduled to attend the 18th N.E.W.S. Conference and Vice-Chancellors' Symposium 2025 at Lumbini Buddhist University, contributing his insights on the advancement of higher education in Nepal.
Mr. Lal Krishna K.C.
Chairman, University of Nepal
Mr. Lal Krishna K.C.
Chairman, University of Nepal
Mr. Lal Krishna K.C. is a prominent figure in Nepal's academic and business communities, currently serving as a member of the Board of Trustees at the University of Nepal. In addition to his role at the university, he holds the position of Vice-Chairperson at the Nepal Council of Arbitration (NEPCA), where he contributes to the promotion and facilitation of arbitration practices within the country. Mr. K.C. also serves as the Chairman of Sahiba, a company based in Nepal. His extensive experience and leadership across various sectors underscore his dedication to advancing Nepal's educational and economic development
Prof. Dr. Subarna Lal Bajracharya
VC, Lumbini Buddhist University
Prof. Dr. Subarna Lal Bajracharya
VC, Lumbini Buddhist University
Prof. Dr. Subarna Lal Bajracharya envisions Lumbini Buddhist University as a global leader by integrating Buddhist wisdom into modern education. He is committed to academic excellence and world peace and aims to establish the university as an international hub for Buddhist studies and activism. Through innovative programs, impactful research, and community engagement, Prof. Bajracharya seeks to propel the university toward becoming a center of excellence and sustainable development worldwide. He is the Conference Chair of 18th N.E.W.S Conference & Vice-Chancellor Symposium 2025
- Email: [email protected]
Prof. Abhay Kumar Singh
VC, Nalanda University, INDIA
Prof. Abhay Kumar Singh
VC, Nalanda University, INDIA
Prof. Abhay Kumar Singh, born in 1960, is a distinguished academic currently serving as the Interim Vice-Chancellor of Nalanda University in Rajgir, Bihar, India. He also holds the positions of Dean of the School of Historical Studies and Dean of International Relations at the university.
Prof. Singh earned his Ph.D. in Ancient History and Culture from MJP Rohilkhand University, Bareilly. He further enriched his academic journey by studying Greek Language and Civilisation at the University of Patras, Greece.
His research primarily focuses on ancient India's interactions with the Persians, Graeco-Bactrians, Sakas, and Kushanas, exploring their lasting impacts on Indian society and culture. Prof. Singh has presented his research at numerous international and national forums, including in countries such as India, France, Greece, and Iran, with over 75 presentations to his credit.
Throughout his illustrious career, Prof. Singh has published approximately 50 research papers, authored one book, co-edited eight books, and supervised 13 Ph.D. scholars. His dedication to academia and his extensive contributions to the field of ancient history have significantly enriched the understanding of historical interactions and their contemporary relevance.
Prof. Kavita Shah
VC, Siddhartha University, INDIA
Prof. Kavita Shah
VC, Siddhartha University, INDIA
<p class="" data-start="0" data-end="164"><span class="relative -mx-px my-[-0.2rem] rounded px-px py-[0.2rem]">Prof. Kavita Shah, born on November 6, 1968, is a distinguished Indian environmental biotechnologist currently serving as the Vice-Chancellor of Siddharth University, Kapilvastu, Siddharth Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, India.</span> <span class="relative -mx-px my-[-0.2rem] rounded px-px py-[0.2rem]">Appointed in July 2024, she is the first woman to hold this position at the university.</span></p>
<p class="" data-start="166" data-end="361"><span class="relative -mx-px my-[-0.2rem] rounded px-px py-[0.2rem]">Prior to her current role, Prof. Shah was a professor at the Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development at Banaras Hindu University (BHU).</span> <span class="relative -mx-px my-[-0.2rem] rounded px-px py-[0.2rem]">She also coordinated the Mahamana Malaviya Research Centre for Ganga, River Development & Water Resource Management at BHU.</span> <span class="relative -mx-px my-[-0.2rem] rounded px-px py-[0.2rem]">Her academic journey includes earning a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from BHU, and she specializes in environmental biochemistry, stress physiology, and biotechnology.</span></p>
<p class="" data-start="363" data-end="526"><span class="relative -mx-px my-[-0.2rem] rounded px-px py-[0.2rem]">Throughout her career, Prof. Shah has published approximately 100 research papers in reputed scientific journals.</span> <span class="relative -mx-px my-[-0.2rem] rounded px-px py-[0.2rem]">She has been recognized with several awards, including the Women Scientist Award in 2011.</span></p>
<p class="" data-start="528" data-end="693"><span class="relative -mx-px my-[-0.2rem] rounded px-px py-[0.2rem]">As Vice-Chancellor of Siddharth University, Prof. Shah emphasizes the importance of industry-academia partnerships.</span> <span class="relative -mx-px my-[-0.2rem] rounded px-px py-[0.2rem]">She encourages students to adopt the ‘Think Local, Act Global' approach, aiming to align education with industry needs and promote innovation.</span> </p>
<p class="" data-start="695" data-end="780"><span class="relative -mx-px my-[-0.2rem] rounded px-px py-[0.2rem]">Prof. Shah's leadership is anticipated to drive significant advancements at Siddharth University, fostering academic excellence and strengthening collaborations between education and industry.</span></p>
Event Highlights
Key Themes Overview
The Vice-Chancellor Symposium 2025 at Lumbini University offers a rich experience with various presentations, discussions, and interactive activities. Here’s what to expect:
- Insightful Talks: Listen to experts discussing higher education and Buddhist wisdom.
- Interactive Workshops: Gain tools to foster collaboration and improve educational quality.
- Networking: Meet academics and leaders passionate about education reform.
- Panel Talks: Participate in discussions about educational access and sustainability.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience Lumbini’s rich culture and its role in education.
SYMPOSIUM THEMES
Human Resource Development for the 4th Industrial Revolution
- Reskilling and Upskilling in Higher Education: How universities can prepare students for ai, automation, and digital transformation.
- Bridging the Gap between Academia and Industry: Strategies to ensure graduates meet the evolving demands of the job market.
- Ethical Leadership in the Digital Age: The role of higher education in fostering ethical decision-making and sustainable business practices.
Global Mobility and International Collaboration in Higher Education
- Student and Faculty Exchange Programs: Challenges and best practices for academic mobility across borders.
- Global Recognition of Degrees and Qualifications: How universities can create standardized accreditation systems.
- Cross-Border Research Collaborations: Strengthening global academic partnerships for knowledge-sharing.
The Role of Buddhist Philosophy in Higher Education
- Buddhist Ethics in Leadership and Education: Applying mindfulness, compassion, and ethics in modern academia.
- Integrating Buddhist Wisdom in the 4th Industrial Revolution: How Buddhist philosophy can guide ethical ai and technology development.
- Education for Inner Development and Global Peace: Using Buddhist teachings to foster emotional intelligence and conflict resolution in universities.
Challenges of Attracting Students to National Universities vs. Studying Abroad
- Reversing Brain Drain: Strategies to retain top talents in domestic universities.
- Enhancing the Global Appeal of National Universities: What policies can make universities more attractive to international students?
- • Public-Private Partnerships in Higher Education: How collaboration can improve infrastructure and academic offerings.
Academic Collaboration and Sustainable Higher Education Models
- The Future of Hybrid Learning: Blending online and offline education effectively.
- Sustainability in Higher Education: Eco-friendly university models and their role in long-term development.
- Funding and Financial Models for Higher Education: Exploring new ways to fund universities while ensuring accessibility for all.
