Saraswoti Multiple Campus Celebrates 67 Years, Champions Affordable Higher Education Amidst Political Reform
Kathmandu, Nepal – Saraswoti Multiple Campus (SMC), a venerable institution and one of Nepal’s oldest colleges affiliated with Tribhuvan University, recently marked its 67th anniversary. The milestone event, held at the college’s Thamel campus, brought together faculty, students, and distinguished guests to reflect on the institution’s legacy and address pressing contemporary challenges in higher education. A central theme resonating throughout the anniversary celebrations was the critical need for accessible and affordable higher education, particularly in an era where the cost of pursuing advanced studies is steadily increasing across the nation.
SMC, a prestigious state-owned college situated in the heart of Nepal’s capital, boasts a diverse academic offering, encompassing 14 distinct faculties, including a notable Journalism department. The campus currently serves a substantial student body exceeding 9,000 individuals, underscoring its significant role in shaping the nation’s intellectual landscape.
A significant development highlighted during the anniversary was the recent appointment of a new Campus Chief, Dr. Thakur Prasad Wagle. This appointment marks a potentially transformative shift in the administration of Tribhuvan University, as it was based on merit rather than the long-standing tradition of political affiliation. Dr. Wagle, in his address, candidly acknowledged the detrimental impact of excessive politicisation on the academic integrity of government-run educational institutions. He articulated a clear vision for the campus, stating his commitment to enhancing the academic offerings by increasing the variety of subjects and introducing additional shifts. Furthermore, he pledged a concerted effort to improve the physical infrastructure, ensuring a more conducive learning environment for all students.
A Call for Academic Excellence Beyond Politics
The sentiment of separating academic pursuits from political interference was echoed by other speakers. Lecturer Balkrishna Sharma, speaking on behalf of the faculty and staff, urged all members of the SMC community – teachers, employees, and students alike – to transcend the confines of political discourse. His plea was for a unified focus on achieving and maintaining academic excellence, emphasizing that the collective effort is paramount to the college’s continued success.
Adding a poignant dimension to the discussions, Dr. Achyut Adhikari, a History lecturer, used his poetic talents to illuminate the multifaceted challenges the historic campus faces due to over-politicisation. His artistic expression served as a powerful call for substantial and immediate reform.
Student leaders also played a crucial role in the anniversary proceedings, voicing the concerns and aspirations of the student body. Rajesh Babu Bagale, chairperson of the All Nepal Independent Students Union-Revolutionary; Lokmani Joshi, chairperson of the All Nepal Free Students Union; and Mandip Singh Thakuri, president of the Nepal Students Union, collectively emphasized the paramount importance of fostering a peaceful and conducive environment within the college. They argued that such an environment is fundamental for students to thrive academically and personally.
Recognizing Achievement and Fostering Community
Beyond the serious discussions, the anniversary celebration also provided a platform to recognize and celebrate student achievements. Campus Chief Dr. Wagle took the opportunity to felicitate students who had demonstrated exceptional academic performance, achieving the highest marks in their respective subjects. The event was further enlivened by vibrant cultural performances, with students like Laxmi Neupane and Prakriti Pariyar showcasing their talents through captivating dance routines. Other students also had the opportunity to present their diverse skills, adding a festive and engaging atmosphere to the occasion.
In the lead-up to the main anniversary celebration, SMC had also organised a comprehensive sports week. This initiative aimed to promote physical well-being and team spirit among the students. A wide array of sporting and intellectual competitions were held, including:
- Football
- Basketball
- Table Tennis
- Volleyball
- Chess
- Quiz competitions
- Essay writing contests
- Tug-of-war
Campus Chief Dr. Wagle actively participated in the closing ceremony of the sports week, distributing medals to the victorious students. This gesture underscored the administration’s commitment to acknowledging and rewarding excellence across both academic and extracurricular domains, fostering a holistic approach to student development at Saraswoti Multiple Campus.
