News

Academic excellence and collaboration in Nepal

ACU has pledged to support staff and students from Kathmandu University with the establishment of three Higher Degrees by Research (HDR) scholarships. 

ACU Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Zlatko Skrbis announced the launch of the scholarships following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Kathmandu University (KU), in Kathmandu. 

Aimed at fostering academic excellence and collaboration, the scholarship package will enable the staff or students of KU undertaking research projects or HDR programs. 

Professor Skrbis said ACU was committed to nurturing talent and forging global partnerships. “This collaboration with Kathmandu University marks a significant milestone in our commitment to academic excellence and international cooperation,” he said. 

“The HDR scholarships will empower recipients to embark on advanced studies and research endeavours in their chosen fields.”

Established in 1991 in Nepal, KU is renowned for its dedication to academic excellence across various disciplines. 

With a mission to provide quality education for leadership and a vision to become a world-class institution serving humanity through knowledge and technology, KU has nurtured more 43,000 graduates with industry exposure, research competence, and global compatibility.

KU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Bhola Thapa said the partnership between ACU and KU extended beyond the provision of scholarships. “It encompasses a collaborative effort in supervision, mentorship, and academic support, ensuring that scholars receive comprehensive guidance throughout their academic journey,” Dr Thapa said.

“It is our honour to partner with ACU, a distinguished university that closely aligns with our mission.” He also invited scholars, students and faculties from Australia to study and teach at KU.  

“We look forward to identifying talented scholars from Kathmandu University and supporting them throughout their academic journey with these prestigious research scholarships,”

ACU Pro Vice-Chancellor, Global and Education Pathways Mr Chris Riley said: “This partnership stands as a cornerstone in our dedication to promoting global education and fostering collaborative research efforts.”

The MOU signing ceremony was held on the central campus of Kathmandu University in Dhulikhel, Nepal on March 12, attended by a senior delegation of ACU, including Professor Skrbis; Executive Dean, Faculty of Law and Business, Professor Andrew O’Neil; Executive Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences, Professor Suzanne Chambers AO; Faculty of Education and Arts, Professor Mary Ryan, Executive Dean; Global and Education Pathways Mr Chris Riley, Pro Vice-Chancellor; and Director, Graduate School of Research Ms Michelle Lopez. The ceremony was facilitated by KU’s Global Engagement Division Director Dr Uddhab Pyakurel, and a formal welcome remark was delivered by KU Registrar Professor Dr Achyut Wagle. 

This marked one of the largest and most senior Australian university delegations to visit Nepal.

Ms Felicity Volk, Australian Ambassador to Nepal highlighted the importance of the senior delegation of ACU visiting Nepal. 

“ACU plays a significant role in fostering transnational collaboration between Australia and Nepal, particularly in the areas of human capital development, education and research,” Ms Volk said.

“I am delighted to endorse this academic and cultural exchange between ACU and Kathmandu University.”