LALITPUR, July 10: Professors have launched a protest demanding the assurance of autonomy for the Institute of Engineering.
The units of the Institute of Engineering (IOE) of the Tribhuvan University Teachers’ Association (TUTA), the ideological associations/organizations of professors, and all units under the Institute of Engineering held a press conference in Pulchowk, Lalitpur, on Wednesday, stating that they have launched a protest, claiming that interference from Tribhuvan University (TU) has caused the loss of administrative, financial, and research autonomy.
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Prof. Dr. Sangeeta Singh, voicing opposition to the central interference by TU, stated that they have been on an indefinite protest since July 3, demanding the assurance of autonomy. "We have been protesting for the past few days. Ensuring autonomy is a crucial demand. Central interference must end. In this era of globalization, we emphasize the need to focus on international-level teaching and research," she said.
Professor Roshan Karki of the Department of Civil Engineering stated that the interference from the university has affected the research and development activities of the IOE, which was established by the Nepal government to produce technical manpower. "This movement is a united effort for the rights and improvement of the Institute of Engineering. In the past, the institute was allowed to operate with autonomy and generate its income to prepare skilled technical manpower, but in 2080 BS, the Senate decided to revoke this autonomy, which is objectionable," he said.
Prof. Dr. Sudip Bhattarai stated that 54 professors have resigned from their positions as department heads and deputy heads, demanding autonomy for all five constituent campuses under TU. He also mentioned that there is solidarity among ideological organizations in the program organized by the Professors' Association.
Dr. Shree Hari Thapa, chairperson of the TUTA Thapathali Campus Unit Committee, stated that the protest is being carried out for the autonomy and interests of the institution rather than personal expectations.
Professor Karki said that the professors have submitted a memorandum of demands through the Chief of Staff to the Vice Chancellor and started the protest. He added that the movement will continue with the decision to suspend all academic activities (teaching, examinations, etc.) until the demands are met.
