Woes Pushing Students Abroad

Every teen nowadays is geared towards leaving the country for foreign education. Whether it's gossip in class or conversations at a cafe, all that we hear is how the state of this nation is deteriorating and the quality of education is very low.

"I recently completed my undergraduate degree. I was looking for graduate courses in my relevant field, but to my surprise, the choices I have are very minimal. Comparatively, I had so many choices when I expanded my horizon. Additionally, the availability of scholarships and the opportunity to earn was a bonus," said Pratim Thapa, a BBA student currently prospecting a graduate degree in the United States.

 

Pratim's experience reflects a common sentiment among students seeking higher education. The scope and variety of graduate courses and programs can vary significantly between countries, and studying abroad often opens up a broader range of possibilities for academic and professional growth.

 

"The biggest drawback for higher education in Nepal is the unconventional class structure. If one reviews the class hours abroad, they will find that students have enough time to study and work," said Sushma Shakya. "I faced this dilemma when I was prospecting for my MBA in Nepalese universities. I was quite surprised to see classes starting as late as 11 AM in the morning and being held six days a week. When I shared this with my friends abroad, they were at a loss for words, and their only response was, 'Come join us.'"

 

Sushma highlights a significant concern regarding the class structure in Nepalese universities, which may impact students' ability to balance their studies with other commitments. The variation in class timings and frequency can indeed be a determining factor for students when considering their higher education options. Her experience brings forth a peculiar irony - if they're going to keep focusing solely on academic learning, when will they have the opportunity to grow as professionals?

 

"When I completed my +2, I was bombarded with so many college options. But ironically, the courses offered were the same. In contrast, there were colleges with international affiliations that offered appealing courses, but the prices were outrageous," stated Garima Shrestha, a Marketing Science student in Australia.

 

Garima's experience highlights a common dilemma faced by many students when choosing colleges for higher education. Despite the abundance of options, the lack of course diversity in some institutions can be disappointing. On the other hand, colleges with international affiliations may offer more exciting and diverse courses, but they often come with higher tuition fees that may be beyond the reach of many students. This discrepancy in course offerings and costs can make the college selection process more challenging for students seeking a well-rounded and affordable education.

 

The desire to pursue foreign education has become increasingly prevalent among Nepalese students. The allure of studying abroad stems from the perception that the quality of education in Nepal may be lacking, and that international universities offer a broader array of courses and opportunities. This article examines the advantages and challenges faced by students who choose to pursue higher education abroad, based on real-life experiences shared by Nepalese students like Pratim Thapa, Sushma Shakya, and Garima Shrestha.

 

Diverse Range of Graduate Courses:

 

One of the most significant advantages of studying abroad is the availability of a diverse range of graduate courses and programs. As highlighted by Pratim Thapa, prospective students often find limited choices for their relevant fields in Nepal. In contrast, international universities offer a vast selection of specialized programs that cater to various interests and career aspirations. This variety allows students to explore and select the most suitable educational path that aligns with their goals.

 

Scholarship Opportunities and Financial Benefits:

 

Studying abroad can present students with various scholarship opportunities and financial benefits, as Pratim Thapa observed. Many countries and universities offer scholarships and grants to international students based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria. These financial aids can significantly alleviate the burden of tuition fees and living expenses, making foreign education more accessible and attractive to Nepalese students.

 

Improved Class Structure and Work Opportunities:

 

Sushma Shakya's experience sheds light on a crucial aspect of the Nepalese education system - the class structure. In some Nepalese universities, the class timings and frequency may not be conducive to allowing students to balance their studies with other commitments or part-time work. Conversely, many foreign universities provide a well-structured academic environment that allows students to manage their time efficiently and explore part-time job opportunities. This balance between academics and work experience can enhance a student's overall growth and employability.

 

Course Diversity and Affordability:

 

Garima Shrestha's story emphasizes the need for increased course diversity in Nepalese colleges. Students often face the dilemma of choosing between limited course options in local institutions or opting for colleges with international affiliations that offer more diverse programs but at higher costs. To address this issue, Nepal should focus on expanding the range of courses available locally and collaborating with international institutions to offer affordable options with global exposure.

 

The trend of Nepalese students seeking foreign education is influenced by the desire for better educational opportunities and a broader range of choices. The experiences of Pratim Thapa, Sushma Shakya, and Garima Shrestha highlight the advantages of pursuing higher education abroad, such as diverse course offerings, scholarship opportunities, and exposure to different cultures. However, there are challenges to be addressed, including the class structure in Nepalese universities and the affordability of internationally-affiliated colleges. As an expert in foreign education, I recommend that stakeholders in Nepal's education system collaborate to improve course diversity, offer more scholarships, and create a conducive learning environment, allowing students to receive a well-rounded and affordable education at home or abroad.