President Paudel Expresses Concern Over Rural Depopulation, Urges Solutions

In a poignant address during the 65th anniversary celebrations of Thamel-based Saraswoti Multiple Campus, President Ramchandra Paudel voiced his apprehension regarding the escalating trend of villages becoming ’empty’ due to widespread migration to urban areas. The Head of State called upon all stakeholders to collaborate in finding effective solutions to address this pressing issue.

Despite notable advancements in education, communications, roads, health, and electricity in rural areas following the advent of democracy, President Paudel highlighted the alarming depopulation faced by villages. He underscored the need for a holistic approach to ensure that the benefits of development are harnessed by local populations.

President Paudel emphasized the importance of aligning the education system with the socio-economic context and urged authorities to formulate policies capable of producing globally competitive human resources. He called for combined efforts from academic institutions and policymakers to tackle the challenges posed by migration, suggesting a focus on promoting job opportunities and vocational education to deter youth from seeking careers abroad.

Reflecting on his personal connection to Saraswoti Campus, where he was once a student actively involved in the democracy movement, President Paudel praised the institution’s pivotal role in shaping his political awareness and career. He expressed his pleasure in participating in the anniversary celebrations and urged the government to provide special support for the physical infrastructure of Saraswoti Campus.

Acting Vice Chancellor of Tribhuvan University, Prof Dr Shiva Lal Bhusal, stressed the need for strengthening existing educational institutions rather than establishing new ones. He emphasized the importance of aligning universities with the state’s development plans to achieve meaningful progress.

Founding Campus Chief, Prof Shankar Raj Pathak, recalled President Paudel’s active role during his student days and expressed confidence that the country would benefit from his continued commitment to development and prosperity. Campus Chief Golaman Gurung highlighted that Saraswoti Multiple Campus, established on Poush 10, 2016 BS, currently hosts around 7,000 students and is committed to delivering quality education through various programs.