ECAN holds 19th Annual General Meeting

KATHMANDU: The 19th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Educational Consultancy Association of Nepal (ECAN) concluded successfully at the Marriott Hotel, Kathmandu.

The event was graced by Speaker of the House of Representatives, Devraj Ghimire, as the Chief Guest, and Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pandey, as the Special Guest.

During the AGM, Dr. Badri KC, Chair of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA), was appointed as an advisor to ECAN.

The program featured two sessions—an inaugural and a closing session—highlighting key discussions on the evolving landscape of education consultation and foreign studies.

Speaker’s Concern on Educational Trends

In his address, Speaker Ghimire expressed concern over the trend of students prioritizing foreign education solely for employment opportunities. “It is unfortunate that education is viewed merely as a means for livelihood rather than for intellectual growth. Students should use the knowledge gained abroad to contribute to national development,” he stated.

He emphasized the need for policies that encourage students to return and apply their acquired skills and ideas to foster progress within Nepal.

Call for Reform in Education Policies

ECAN Chair Shesh Raj Bhattarai highlighted the challenges faced by educational consultancy firms, particularly the lack of favorable perception from government bodies. He urged for the upcoming Education Act to include provisions that recognize and support the contributions of these institutions.

Bhattarai advocated for dedicated laws and regulations tailored to the foreign education sector. He remarked, “ECAN has been guiding students on where to pursue technical education globally, ensuring they can return to Nepal and contribute effectively. Creating an enabling environment for their reintegration should be a shared responsibility.”

Commitment to Promoting Nepal as a Study Destination

Tourism Minister Pandey pledged to work on policy reforms to attract international students to Nepal. “The government will remain proactive in creating an environment conducive to hosting foreign students, aligning with ECAN’s recommendations,” he affirmed.

Additionally, Rajendra Baral, Central Chair of the Nepal Educational Consultancy Federation, assured consultancy professionals that they need not fear upcoming education laws. He clarified that these laws aim to support educational development rather than restrict it.

Broad Participation and Engagement

The AGM witnessed participation from former ECAN Chair Prakash Pandey, Assistant Chief District Officer Anil Poudel, ECAN advisors, representatives from various umbrella organizations, district branch members, and delegates from colleges and universities.

This year’s AGM not only reinforced ECAN’s role as the leading body in educational consultancy but also underscored the need for collective efforts in shaping Nepal’s educational future.