SELF-STUDY REPORT (SSR) FOR QUALITY ASSURANCE AND ACCREDITATION (QAA) AWARD
Revised 22 July 2018 with Incorporation of Expert’s Comments & Revised 29 November 2018 with Incorporation of Suggestions from PRT’s Pre-Visit Assessment Report
Submitted to: University Grants Commission Sanothimi, Bhaktapur
Submitted by: Prithvi Narayan Campus Tribhuvan University
29 November 2018 Pokhara, Kaski
i
SSR PREPARATION COMMITTEES
Internal QAA Committee (IQAAC) Chair – Prof. Dr. Chandra Bahadur Thapa (Campus Chief) Member Secretary – Dr. Min Pun, Coordinator, QAA/Reform Unit Member – Prem Lal Baral, Administrator, Employee’s Administration Member – Kabi Raj Tiwari, Associate Finance Controller, Financial Administration Member – Dr. Ram Jeevan Yadav, Lecturer, Department of Chemistry Member – Durga Sharma, Lecturer, Department of Environmental Science Member – Kishor Subedi, Librarian Officer, Western Regional Library Member – Kedar Nath Adhikari, Administrator, General Administration Member – Purna Gurung, Administrator, Academic Administration Member – Sushila Gurung, Section Officer, Academic Administration
Self-Assessment Team (SAT) Coordinator – Dr. Min Pun, QAA/Reform Unit (Reader, Dept of English) Member – Dr. Naba Raj Neupane, Lecturer, Department of English Education Member – Dr. Ram Jeevan Yadav, Lecturer, Department of Chemistry Member – Netra Narayan Poudel, Lecturer, Department of Anthropology Member – Radha Devi Sharma, Lecturer, Department of English Member – Resham Sharma, Faculty of Management Member – Ramji Gautam, Lecturer, Department of Zoology Member – Shreekrishna Panthee, Lecturer, Department of EPM Member – Bijay Aryal, Lecturer, Department of Population Studies Member – Resam Lal Poudel, Lecturer, Faculty of Management
ii
iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SN DESCRIPTION PAGE NO. 1 SSR Preparation Committees ii 2 Declaration by the Head of the Institution iii 3 Table of Contents iv 4 List of Abbreviations v 5 Executive Summary 1-3 6 Part I: Information for Institutional Profile 4-12 7 Part II: Criterion-wise Inputs for Institutional SSR 13-57 Criterion 1: Policy and Procedures Criterion 2: Curricular Aspects Criterion 3: Teaching Learning and Evaluation System Criterion 4: Research, Consultancy and Extension Criterion 5: Infrastructure and Learning Resources Criterion 6: Student Support and Guidance Criterion 7: Information System Criterion 8: Public Information 8 Part III: Analysis of Criterion-wise Inputs 58-72 1. Policy and Procedures 2. Curricular Aspects 3. Teaching-learning and Evaluation System 4. Research-consultancy and Extension 5. Infrastructure and Learning Resources 6. Student Support and Guidance 7. Information System 8. Public Information 9 Table of Annexes (Compiled Separately in 3 Volumes) 10 Additional Support Documents (1-15)
iv
ABBREVIATIONS
CDC Curriculum Development Centre CIA Continuous Internal Assessment EMIS Education Management Information System HEI Higher Education Institution ICT Information Communication Technology IQAAC Internal Quality Assurance and Accreditation Committee KU Kathmandu University MOE Ministry of Education MoU Memorandum of Understanding PNC Prithvi Narayan Campus PG Postgraduate PNC Prithvi Narayan Campus PRT Peer Review Team QAA Quality Assurance and Accreditation SAT Self-Assessment Team SSR Self-Study Report SWOC Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Challenges TU Tribhuvan University UG Undergraduate UGC University Grants Commission
v
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has launched the Quality Assurance and Accreditation (QAA) program as an important aspect of reform in higher education in Nepal. The QAA has been taken as a mission of improving quality of education in Nepal. In order to accomplish this program, the UGC has formed a Quality Assurance and Accreditation Committee (QAAC) for the development and implementation of QAA activities in higher education in Nepal. The QAA Division in UGC has been established to facilitate QAAC and to perform regular activities related to the QAA process.
On 14 February 2014 (2 Falgun 2072 BS), Prithvi Narayan Campus submitted the Letter of Intention (LoI) to the UGC to participate in the process of QAA system of its institution. Based on the analysis of the documents submitted by the campus, the UGC had issued a letter of participation for eligibility to participate in the process. The Self-Assessment Team (SAT) collected and analyzed information required for completion of the report. Based on the information obtained from the campus, the self-assessment of the current status of the institution has been made. The campus through its Internal Quality Assurance Committee (IQAC) has now prepared its Self-Study Report (SSR) to be submitted to the UGC. The effectiveness and efficiency of the institution is explored and core strengths and weaknesses identified. It has provided the opportunity for self-realization for improvement of the institution’s performance in order to make it more competitive and sustainable. The institutional assessment has been undertaken in eight generic criteria, namely, policy and procedures, curricular aspects, teaching-learning and evaluation, research, consultancy and extension, infrastructure and learning resources, student support and guidance, information system, and public information disclosure.
The Strengths and Weaknesses, Opportunities and Challenges (SWOC) analysis as given in subsequent paragraphs encapsulates major points and issues, which are considered to be the campus’s intrinsic strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and challenges. The biggest strength of the campus emanates from its determination to excel in academic repute and outshine in the quality of research and land space available. Adding objectivity to this ambitious vision, the strategic plan has been drafted accordingly. The fact that this vision is shared by the university and more importantly, by its teaching and non-teaching staff which are the life and blood of this institution, remain a major support.
The core strengths of the campus comprise of the dedicated and committed management, determined and disciplined faculty members as the backbone of the institution, well equipped laboratories, and good infrastructure and comprehensive teaching-learning environment. Similarly, the campus is sound in providing its students with interdisciplinary education. The regional library, hostel facilities, experienced faculty, resourceful library, and research support for faculty members and students are the added strength of the institution. In addition, the merit
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 1 based scholarship given to students and need-based scholarship given to the economically weaker students are also the major strengths of the campus.
The weaknesses of the campus are the socio-economic background of many of its students admitted to its various programs that is responsible for poor language competence, which leads to an unsatisfactory level of comprehension and communication. The resources are not properly utilized. There is a problem in implementing the curriculum and less representation of faculty members in the Curriculum Development Centre of Tribhuvan University due to the centralized system of the university. Some programs are launched in the annual system and some in the semester system that is also the major weakness of the university. Additionally, delay in examination result is a part of institutional weakness. Participation of adjunct faculty members in research activities is below average. There is no separate faculty room for the teachers. The low pass percentage ratio is also the major weakness of the institution.
Major opportunities that can be capitalized by the campus are improving interaction of administration and stakeholders, pace of technological advancement, and attraction for diverse nature of students. The campus needs to increase the quality of research and publications. Opportunities can be created by launching M.Phil and Ph.D. programs. Implementation of information from stakeholders is also an opportunity for the campus. It can further explore benefits of funding agencies for advanced research facilities.
The major challenges faced by the campus are the retention of qualified and competent faculty, and increased efforts to collaborate with reputed external higher education institutions to promote student and faculty exchange programs. It is also facing competition from other colleges to meet the competition in Pokhara and its surrounding areas. The campus also faces a challenge to supply graduates according to business and social needs.
The following table depicts a summary of the outputs of the self-assessment of the campus in regards to the criterion as prescribed by the SSR guidelines: N Criteria Highly Dissatisfied Neither Satisfied Highly Dissatisfied Satisfied nor Satisfied Dissatisfied 1 Policy and procedures 2 Curricular aspects 3 Teaching- learning and evaluation system 4 Research- consultancy SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 2
and extension 5 Infrastructure and learning resources 6 Information system 7 Public information
The campus in its objective of becoming a university has initiated the activities to accomplish milestones in the process through the QAA process. Thus, the campus has decided to get its institution accredited and become one of the quality higher education providers in Nepal. The accreditation by the UGC helps the institution to benchmark the quality parameters in terms of criteria and work on achieving excellence in terms of quality with continuous improvement. The infrastructure and learning resources, information system, students’ enrolment, library resources, and adequate space are the major strengths of the institution. However, institutional autonomy, public information dimensions update on research skills among faculty members, and competency of non-teaching staff inside the campus is relatively the weakness of the institution. It has been observed that the campus still needs increased attention for the improvement of these dimensions. The campus also needs preparation to face challenges and grasp opportunities for academic excellence. Finally, the SSR has assisted the campus in identifying its major strengths and weaknesses and also contributed to appraise the clear picture of the current status of the institution in different dimensions. It further assists the campus in strategically implementing its plans in the future.
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 3
PART I INFORMATION FOR INSTITUTIONAL PROFILE
1. Institutional Information Name of the Institution: Prithvi Narayan Campus Place: Bagar, Pokhara P O Box: District: Kaski
2. Information for Communication a) Office Name Telephone with Fax E-mail Extension Number Executive Head of the 061-526837 061-541605 campuschief@pncamp Institution: us.edu.np Prof. Dr. Chandra Bahadur Thapa Executive Assistant: 061-532385 061-541605 [email protected] Nanda Lal Adhikari 9856030074 u.np Management Committee 061-526837 061-541605 campuschief@pncamp Chairperson: us.edu.np Prof. Dr. Chandra Bahadur Thapa
b) Residence Name Telephone with Fax E-mail Extension Number Executive Head: 061-526837 061-541605 campuschief@pncamp Prof. Dr. Chandra Bahadur 9846037888 us.edu.np Thapa Executive Assistant: 061-532385 061-541605 [email protected] Nanda Lal Adhikari 9856030074 u.np Management Committee 061-526837 061-541605 campuschief@pncamp Chairperson: 9846037888 us.edu.np Prof. Dr. Chandra Bahadur Thapa
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 4
3. Type of Institution Constituent Affiliated Degree Awarding Autonomous Institution
4. Institutional Management: Public Community Private Other (please specify)
5. Financial category of the institution: Government Funded Self-financing Community Other (Students’ Fee)
6. a) Date of establishment of the Institution: (01/09/1960) b) Date of commencement of the Bachelor or higher level Program(s): Bachelor Level (BA) - (20/08/1963) Master Level (MA) - (1978) c) University to which the Institution is affiliated: N/A (Note: the institution is one of the constituent campuses of Tribhuvan University; the institution is also one of decentralized campuses of Tribhuvan University as per the Tribhuvan University Decentralization Rule 2055 BS. See Annex 3, Tribhuvan University Decentralization Rule 2055, pp. 45-60)
7. Date of Government /UGC approval (only for Institution affiliated to foreign universities): N/A
8. Is the institution autonomous in terms of Financing Administrative Management Academic Management None
9. Institution’s Land area in Ropanees/Bighas (Katthas)/Square Meters: 790 ropanis 10. Location of the Institution Urban Semi-urban Rural
11. Current number of academic programs offered in the Institution under the following categories: (Enclose the list of academic programs offered) Academic Title of the Programs Number of Programs Program Certificate course - - (PCL 2 years), 10+2 (HSEB), or CTEVT programs Bachelors BA, BBS, BBA, LLB, BALLB, B.Ed., 1-Year 10 B.Ed., B.Sc., B.Sc. CSIT, BPA SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 5
Masters MA English, MA Nepali, MA Economics, MA 20 Geography, MA Political Science, MA History, MA Sociology, MA Anthropology, MA Population Studies, MBS, M.Ed. English, M.Ed. Nepali, M.Ed. EPM, M.Ed. Curriculum, M.Ed. Economics, M.Ed. Health, M.Ed. Mathematics, M.Sc. Physics, M.Sc. Mathematics, MPA MPhil - - PhD - - Any other (specify) - Total 30
12. List the Departments in the Institution (faculty-wise) Institute of Science & Technology Departments: 1) Physics 2) Chemistry 3) Botany 4) Microbiology 5) Zoology 6) Statistics 7) Mathematics Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences Departments: 1) English 3) Nepali 3) Geography 4) Economics 5) Political Science 6) History & Culture 7) Sociology 8) Anthropology 9) Population Studies Faculty of Management Departments: 1) General Management 2) Sectoral Management 3) Account 4) Finance 5) Marketing 6) Management Research Faculty of Education Departments: 1) English Education 2) Nepali Education 3) Education (Note: there exists a separate department as “Department of Education”) 4) EPM 5) HPPE 6) Social Studies Education 7) Science & Environmental Education 8) Teaching Practice Faculty of Law Departments: 1) Criminal & International Law 2) Civil & Constitutional Law
13. Give details of the self-financing/self-initiated courses, if any offered by the institution (for public institutions only). Programs Level of Study Eligibility Student Number requirement for (Enrolment/ student admission Capacity)
BBA Bachelor +2 or equivalent 234 BALLB Bachelor +2 or equivalent 105 B.Sc. CSIT Bachelor +2 or equivalent 60 BPA Bachelor +2 or equivalent 39 MPA Master Bachelor’s Degree 34
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 6
14. State the norms and procedures for recruitment of teaching and non-teaching staff of the Institution. (Enclose the details)
Response: The campus is both decentralized and constituent campus of Tribhuvan University. So the campus is freer in terms of academic and administrative decisions than those which are only constituent campuses of Tribhuvan University. Despite the fact that this campus is a decentralized constituent campus of Tribhuvan University, it cannot initiate the practice of recruiting full time permanent teaching and non-teaching staff; it has to depend on TU Service Commission to recruit permanent teaching and non- teaching staff of the institution. However, in regard to recruiting contract and part time teaching and non-teaching staff, the campus in consultation with the university follows certain norms and procedures to recruit its staff. (See Annex 3, Tribhuvan University Decentralization Rule 2055, pp. 45-60; Annex 39, Recruitment of Staff, pp. 1117-1127)
15. Number of Full timer and Part timer teaching staff at present: Disadvantaged / Others Grand Particulars Janajatis Total F T F T Full Time Teachers (Total) 8 48 20 298 336 No. of teachers with PhD - 5 2 34 39 No. of teachers with MPhil - 1 - 8 9 No. of teachers with Masters 8 42 18 246 288 No. of teachers with Bachelors - - - - - Part Time Teachers (Total) 8 26 16 159 185 Part-time teachers with PhD - - - 1 1 Part-time teachers with MPhil - - - - - Part-time teachers with Masters 8 26 16 158 184 No. of teachers with Bachelors - - - - - (See Annex 12, Academic Audit Report 2018, pp. 395-402)
16. Give the details of average number of hours/week (class load) Full Time Teachers Part Time Total Courses (Total) Teachers (Total) Science 1050 420 1470 Management 825 540 1365 Humanities and Social Science 1125 360 1150 Education 900 264 1164 Law 135 - 135 Please add other courses if any
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 7
Response: The campus has 32 departments, 30 academic programs and more than 500 courses on offer. In total, the campus has 521 faculty members. Among them, 336 are full time faculty members who have to take 15 class loads every week except a few are assigned for administrative responsibilities. In regard to part time faculty members, there is no fixed class loads that depend on the need of each department. So it is not possible to list all the courses above and allocate the class loads. (See Annex 43, List of Teaching & Non-Teaching Staff, pp. 1179-1211; Annex 25, Class Routines, pp. 779-815; Annex 43, Prospectus 2018-19, pp. 237-248)
17. Number of members of the non-teaching staff of the Institution at present: Particulars Disadvantaged / Others Grand Janajatis Total F T F T Administrative Staff 19 33 16 52 85 Technical Staff 2 5 2 13 18
(See Annex 43, List of Teaching & Non-Teaching Staff, pp. 1179-1211)
18. Regional profile of the students enrolled in the institution for the current academic year: No of Students Enrolment UG PG MPhil PhD From … F T F T F T F T Same district where the 2016 3579 356 620 - - - - institution is located Other districts 2231 4494 763 1292 - - - - SAARC countries 1 3 ------Other countries ------Disadvantaged/Janajatis 1446 2319 173 337 - - - - Note: F= Female, T= Total in Table 15, 17 and 18. (See Annex 30, Data on Enrolment & Graduates, pp. 926-928)
19. Details of the last two batches of students: Particulars Batch 1: Batch 2: Year: 2016 Year: 2017
Bachelors Masters Total Bachelors Masters Total Admitted to the program 3241 1017 4258 2680 865 3545 Drop-outs a. Within four months of 455 76 531 326 63 389 joining b. Afterwards 1074 158 1232 635 146 781
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 8
Appeared for the final year 1713 771 2496 1340 656 1996 examinations Passed in the final 579 143 728 462 174 636 examinations Pass % of number appeared 33.80 18.55 29.17 34.48 26.52 31.86 (Total) Pass % with distinctions Pass %, (First class) No accurate data available on these categories. The Pass %, (Second class) campus is going to complete the students’ Pass %, (Third class) management system very soon. After this, these Number of students expelled categories can be obtained. from examination hall if any Note: For other types of evaluation system such as GPA, provide respective grades and brief explanation about their ranges in percentage.
(See Annex 30, Data on Enrolment & Graduates, pp. 926-928)
20. Give a copy of the last annual budget of the Institution with details of income and expenditure. (Attach separately)
Response: The annual budget is included in the Financial Report 2074/75 BS. (See Annex 16, Financial Repot 2074/75, pp. 433-466)
21. What is the institution’s ‘unit cost’ of education? [unit cost = total annual expenditure budget (actual) divided by the number of students enrolled]. Also give unit cost calculated excluding salary component.
Response: The unit cost of education of the campus is 20,722.30 rupees. The unit cost excluding salary component is 1986.90 rupees. (See Annex 6, EMIS Report 2016-17, pp. 119-178; Annex 16, Financial Report 2074/75, pp. 433-466)
22. What is the temporal plan of academic work in the Institution? Semester System Annual System Any other (specify)
Response: The campus has adopted both annual and semester systems of education. (See Annex 9, Prospectus 2018-19, pp. 237-248 [academic programs, p. 6])
23. Tick the support services available in the Institution from the following: Central library Computer centre Health centre Sports facilities Press Workshop Hostels Guest house Housing SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 9
Canteen Grievance redressal cell Common room for students Any other (specify) ------
24. Whether a duly formed Institution Management Committee in place? Yes No , If yes provide the composition of the committee in separate sheet
Response: Yes, the campus has a duly formed campus management committee in place. The committee comprises of 22 members, representing different stakeholders of the campus. (See Annex 42, The Governing Body of the Campus, pp. 1174-1177)
25. Furnish the following details (in figures) for the last three years: Particulars Year I Year II Year III Working days of the institution 264 264 264 Working days of the library 264 264 264 Teaching days of the institution 157 161 158 Teaching days set by the university 157 161 158 Books in the library 78,732 83,000 94,814 Journals/Periodicals subscribed by the library National: 26 30 35 International: 2 3 5 Computers in the institution 232 268 278 Research projects completed and their total 6 7 7 outlay 6,,60,000 7,00,000 27,90,000 Teachers who have received national 7 9 10 recognition for teaching/research/ consultancy Teachers who have received international 2 3 2 recognition for teaching/ research/ consultancy Teachers who have attended international 13 17 14 seminars Teachers who were resource persons at 18 11 14 national seminars/workshops No. of hours of instruction against the plan 150 150 150 (per year or per semester) Note: Please attach the annual calendar of operations of the institution
(See Annex 13, Academic Survey Report 2018, pp. 404-413; Annex 5, Prithvi Narayan Campus Academic Calendar 2017-2019, 104-117; Annex 4, Meeting Minutes [tu senate
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 10
& executive council, p. 75]; Annex 18, Library Report 2018, pp. 473-488]; Annex 17, Infrastructure Report 2018, pp. 468-471)
26. Give the number of ongoing research projects and their total outlay. Type of Projects No. of Project Projects Revenues (in NRs.) Mini Research Grants (Individual for Faculty with non- 10 150,000 Ph.D. Degrees) Mini Research Grants (Group for Faculty with Ph.D. 4 80,000 Degrees) Thesis/Project Report Writing Grants (for Bachelor’s 16 48,000 and Master’s Students) Total 40 278,000 (See Annex 21, Research Committee Activities, pp. 676-682)
27. Does the Institution have collaborations/ linkages with international institutions? Yes No If yes, list the MoU signed and furnish the details of active MoU along with important details of collaborations.
Response: Yes, the campus has signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for collaborations with Hefei University, China and Wakkanai Hakusei Gakuen University, Japan, and carried out an interaction program recently. The campus chief Prof. Dr. Chandra Bahadur Thapa visited Japan to sign an agreement. Similarly, the campus has proposed to collaborate with Muroran Institute of Technology, Japan and Yunnan Minzu University, China. The agreement for collaborations will take place soon. Two interaction programs have been organized recently in the campus. The campus will continue to extend its international relations for academic exchange and cooperation. (See Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 1, March-August 2018, pp. 218-235 [p. 2, friendly relations]; Annex 35, International Relations, pp. 1057-1078; Additional Support Documents [4. exchange programs, pp. 103-125])
28. Does the management run other educational institutions besides the institution? Yes No If yes, give details.
29. Give details of the resources generated by the institution last year through the following means: Source of Funding Amount(NRs.) UGC/Government grants 10,25,35,000.90 Donations - Fund Raising drives - Alumni Association - SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 11
Research and Consultancy - Fee from Self-financed/initiated courses Fees from regular programs (this amount also includes 5,04,55,460.90 the self-financed courses) Any others, specify (shopping complex rent) 18,17,39,706.33
(See Annex 16, Financial Report 2018, pp. 433-466)
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 12
PART II: CRITERION-WISE INPUTS FOR INSTITUTIONAL SSR
The marking scheme except otherwise specified in the criteria will be as follow: Yes with justification and with evidence = 1 (full marks); justification without full evidence = 0 .75; apparent justification without record = 0.5 apparent initiatives =0.25; No= 0) (The marking division applies proportionately to the allocated marks where necessary.)
CRITERION 1: POLICY & PROCEDURES (15 MARKS) 1. Are there clearly defined vision, mission, goals, and objectives of the Institution in written? Yes No If yes, mention and attach the document.
Response: Yes, the campus has clearly defined vision, mission, and goals to promote the overall development of the institution, which are mentioned in the minute book of the campus management committee and the 5-year strategic plan of the institution. The major mission and vision of the campus being the preparation of its students to meet the challenges of the 21st century, the institution has set its goals and objectives, and is struggling hard to achieve this mission and vision. (See Additional Support Documents [2. minutes of executive committee & standing committee, pp. 51-84]; Annex 1, Five-Year Strategic Plan 2016-2020, pp. 2-16)
2. Are there clearly defined plans, programs and strategies to achieve its specific goals and objectives? Yes No If yes, mention and attach the document.
Response: Yes, the campus has clearly defined plans, programs and strategies in order to achieve its desired goals. For instance, the 5-year strategic plan of the institution has mentioned that the major goal of the institution will be to achieve academic excellence through the market driven and research oriented academic programs. The campus has also its own written documents such as “Internal Criteria & Procedures” that has elaborated the TU Rules & Regulations. The first step towards this goal would be to working on the QAA processing and getting accredited from the University Grants Commission, Nepal. Thus, the campus believes that the ultimate goal of maintaining the quality higher education in the institution would be attained through the QAA processing and plans, programs and strategies would be set as per the guidelines of the QAA Division of the University Grants Commission, Nepal. (See Annex 1, Five-Year Strategic Plan 2016-2020, pp. 2-16; Additional Support Documents [1. internal criteria & procedures, pp. 1-50])
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 13
3. Are there duly formed organizational structures where the policies of the Institution are formulated, reflected, reviewed and updated? Yes No If yes, mention the organizational chart and member compositions.
Response: Yes, the campus has duly formed organizational structures where the policies of the institution are formulated, reflected, reviewed and updated so that the institution can function well through the chain of commands. For instance, the governing body of the campus has a rich history of service to the development of higher education in the western region of Nepal, which is presented in the flowchart of organizational structure of the institution. The institution is led by the campus chief, which is accountable to the campus management committee and executive committee for the policy making to the day to day affairs of the campus, and helps the institution meet its mission and vision. The campus management committee comprises of 22 members representing all sorts of stakeholders of the institution. Similarly, the campus executive committee includes 7 members that would look after the day to day affairs of the institution.
Currently, the campus has 5 Faculty/Institute and 32 departments to manage academic programs, while administrative offices and divisions manage the administrative functions of the institution. (See Annex 3, TU Rules & Regulations, pp. 46-78, [decentralization act 2062 bs, pp. 46-60]; Additional Support Documents [1. internal criteria & procedures, pp. 1-50])
4. Has the Institution adopted any mechanism/process for internal quality monitoring and checks? Yes No Justify with supporting documents.
Response: Yes, the campus has formed a high level committee named “Standing Committee” that works for the overall internal quality monitoring and checks. The committee comprises of 10 members headed by the Campus Chief that include all Assistant Campus Chiefs as members, representing each Faculty/Institute and all academic programs that are running in the morning, day and evening shifts. Besides running the classes for students, the members of the committee hold frequent meetings to monitor and control the quality education within the institution. (See Additional Support Documents [2. minutes of executive committee & standing committee, pp. 51-84]; Annex 3, TU Rules & Regulations, pp. 46-78)
5. Is there any document of the institution to specify the job responsibilities of departments, units and individuals? Yes No If yes, give details/reference.
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 14
Response: Since the campus is one of the decentralized constituent campuses of Tribhuvan University that has enjoyed certain freedom to manage and run the institution, the campus has specified the job responsibilities of departments, units and individuals, the campus is mostly guided by its central office in Kirtipur through the rules and regulations of the university. Apart from being dependent on the central office of the university, the campus management committee and executive committee can have the right to formulate certain rules and regulations to meet the local needs of the institution. So these committees can also specify the job responsibilities of departments, units and individuals besides the specifications mentioned in the university rules and regulations. Yes, the campus has the specified responsibilities that are mentioned in the minute book and in the “Internal Criteria & Procedures”. (See Additional Support Documents [2. minutes of executive committee & standing committee, pp. 51-84]; Additional Support Documents [1. internal criteria & procedures, pp. 1-50]; Annex 3, TU Rules & Regulations, pp. 46-78)
6. Is there any defined and written scheme to evaluate the pre-defined job responsibilities of departments, units and individual staff? Yes No If yes, produce those schemes and examples of some practices
Response: The executive committee, a high level body of the campus that governs the day to day affairs of the institution frequently evaluates the pre-defined job responsibilities of departments, units and individual staff. Yes, the campus has a defined and written scheme for this purpose. For instance, the executive committee is responsible to evaluate the regularity and punctuality of its personnel, faculty and non-teaching staff. The committee also evaluates the engagements of faculty members and students in research activities and extension programs. Besides TU Rules & Regulations, the campus has endorsed such documents that comes in a compilation “Internal Criteria & Procedures”. (See Annex 3, TU Rules & Regulations, pp. 46-78; Additional Support Documents [2. minutes of executive committee & standing committee, pp. 51-84]; Additional Support Documents [1. internal criteria & procedures, pp. 1-50])
7. Does the institution have strategic plan and action plan emphasizing on team work and participatory decision making and a scheme for information sharing? Yes No If yes, give details.
Response: Yes, it does. For instance, the 5 year strategic plan has clearly mentioned the strategic plan and action plan to engage the stakeholders of the campus such as teaching and non-teaching staff, students, parents, local people and local government bodies in the campus development works as well as the campus decision making and information sharing activities. The involvement of all stakeholders of the institution would be essential in the overall development of the campus. (See Annex 1, Five-Year Strategic Plan 2016-2020, pp. 2-16) SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 15
8. Does the institution have program(s) to strengthen the regular academic programs through other self-sustaining programs/courses and others? Yes No If yes, give details.
Response: Yes, the campus has run many self-sustaining programs to strengthen the regular academic programs. The self-sustaining programs in the campus can be categorized in two ways: One, some full academic programs running in the institution like BBA, BALLB, B.Sc. CSIT, BPA and MPA programs are self-sustaining academic programs in terms of income generating schemes including many Master’s programs. The operating cost of these programs is fully borne by the campus that helps strengthen other regular academic programs which are financially supported by the university. Second, in many cases, the campus organizes field visits, orientation programs, etc. in order to strengthen the regular academic programs in which the cost is borne by the students themselves. Third, the campus has also developed such courses on basic computer skills and English language learning which are the bases for all kinds of regular academic courses. (See Annex 9, Prospectus 2018-2019, pp. 237-248; Additional Support Documents [12. self-sustaining (non-credit) courses, pp. 255-262])
9. Are there any formal provisions under which the institution brings “stakeholders or community feedbacks and orientation” in its activities? Yes No If yes, give details.
Response: Yes, it does. The campus has a policy of receiving and using its stakeholders’ feedback and orientation in its academic activities. For instance, the campus has set complaint boxes at different locations of the campus. This mechanism is kept under the general administration that collects the complaints from these complaint boxes every Friday and presents them in the meetings of the campus executive committee for discussion and analysis. The institution has also used its official website and other social media platforms to interact with its stakeholders and community for obtaining feedback and orientation. (See Additional Support Documents [2. minutes of executive committee & standing committee, pp. 51-84]; Annex 37, Stakeholders’ Feedback, 1082-1087; Annex 14, Stakeholders’ Satisfaction Report 2018, pp. 415-420)
10. Were any committees/external agencies appointed during the last three years to improve the organization and management? Yes No If yes, what were the recommendations?
Response: Yes, the campus has appointed some external institutions to improve its institution and management. For instance, the campus has signed an agreement with SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 16
Gandaki Medical Teaching Hospital in Pokhara for health insurance of its students. According to this agreement, the students of the campus can have free medical service upto 50,000/- rupees. Similarly, the campus has also signed an agreement with Western Region Engineering Campus, Lamachaur, Pokhara for engineering consultancy. The campus has signed these agreements with other institutions in order to improve its organization and management.
The campus is also working with IEC Nepal, an INGO working in Nepal to help its visually impaired students. For instance, the campus library has annexed the “Audio Library” for blinds. Recently, the campus has also signed an agreement with this INGO to build a hostel for blinds. On 4 March 2018, the campus has already given permission to plan and start constructing the hostel building.
On 15 December 2017, the campus also conducted an interaction program in collaboration of the Tribhuvan University Higher Education Reform Project (HERP), Kirtipur, the World Bank, and the University Grants Commission, Nepal. The theme of the program was “Authonomy of Higher Education in the Changed Context: Opportunities and Challenges for Prithvi Narayan Campus” which was organized with a view to discussing whether or not the campus can get into its autonomous status under the protection of Tribhuvan University.
Most importantly, the campus is closely working with the UGC through the QAA process work on the quality assurance in the campus. This has helped the campus to improve the organization and management. (See Annex 3, TU Rules & Regulations, pp. 46-78 [office of the senate & executive council-tu, p. 75]; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 1, Issue 1 July-Dec. 2016, pp. 218- 235 [health facility to students, p. 2]; Annex 38, Agreement/Contract Papers, 1089- 1115 [building construction contract paper, pp. 1095-1096]; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 1, March-August 2018, 218-235 [interaction on autonomy, p. 1]; Annex 33, Seminar/Workshop/Conference/Symposium, 995-1027 [procedures of interaction on autonomy, 995-1005]; Annex 38, Agreement/Contract Papers, 1089-1115 [mou between prithvi narayan campus and iec nepal and project managers, pp. 1090-1094]; Additional Support Documents [4. exchange programs, pp. 103-125]; Additional Support Documents [14. collaboration with ugc, pp. 414-468])
11. Are the students involved in institution management system and quality assurance? Yes No If yes, give details.
Response: In many ways, yes, the students are involved in institution management system and quality assurance. For instance, the campus has a formal provision to represent in its management committee through Free Student’s Union though the election for its SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 17
committee has been postponed in 2017 due to its internal reasons. However, the campus has secured a place for the student representative for its management committee.
Similarly, on 26 January 2018, the campus has formed a committee of its former students, which is named “PNC Alumni”. Since its establishment, the alumni have conducted a number of constructive activities to improving the campus management system and quality assurance. For instance they have organized the blood donation program on 6 March 2018, “Clean-up PNC” on 20 March 2018 and an orientation program for B.Sc. students on 26 March 2018. (See Annex 34, PNC Alumni, 1029-1055; Annex 44, Others [news link, p. 1214]: http://pncampus.edu.np/news_detail.php?id=563)
12. Has there been an academic audit? Justify it. a) by the university b) by the Institution Please attach the copies
Response: Yes, it has both. a) The monitoring committee formed by the Tribhuvan University Rector’s Office frequently visits the campus for academic audit. For instance, on 19 May 2018, Dr. Puskar Singh Raikhola and Mr. Prem Bahadur Pandey of the TU Monitoring Directorate, Kirtipur visited the campus for the evaluation of the institution’s academic strengths and weaknesses. The representatives of the monitoring committee have also suggested the improvement of the campus.
On 30 May 2018, Mr. Narayan Prasad Bhandari, a representative of QAA Division, UGC and Mr. Dinesh Prajapati, a representative of Research Division, UGC, Sanothimi visited the campus to monitor the QAA processing in the campus. The representatives of the UGC suggested the campus to speed up the QAA processing and increase the research activities in the campus.
In the similar way, the campus has formed an internal academic audit under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Lekha Nath Bhattarai. The campus has realized that the institution needs to remodel its academic, administrative and physical facilities that are provided for its students. (See Annex 36, Monitoring by External Agency, pp. 1080-1081; Annex 4, Meeting Minutes, pp. 80-102 [a visit by ugc, Nepal, p. 84]; Annex 12, Academic Audit Report 2018, pp. 395-402)
13. Is there any specific mechanism to combine teaching and research? Yes No If yes, give details
Response: Yes, it has. First, the campus has the research committee that is working for various research activities within and outside the campus. The campus through this SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 18
committee has offered its faculty and students to engage in research activities such as by providing research grants to both faculty members and students. The research committee has also created platforms for the faculty members of the campus to publish their research papers in the peer reviewed journals. Without doubt, the involvement of faculty and students in these research activities has helped combine teaching and research in the campus.
Apart from the engagement of faculty and students in research activities, the Bachelor’s and Master’s students have to involve in project report and thesis writing as part of curricular requirements of the university. The concerned departments of the campus are responsible to conduct the proposal call, proposal defense, and viva defense for the students who opt for project work and thesis writing. (See Annex 20, Research Improvement Programs-Criteria & Procedures 2018, pp. 602- 637; Annex 21, Research Committee Activities, pp. 639-674; Annex 23, Journals & Magazines, pp. 684-723; Annex 24, Guidelines for Students’ Project Works, pp.725- 777; Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 2, Sept. 2018-Feb. 2019, pp. 126-132 [research committee allocates faculty research grants], [research program criteria & procedures endorsed]; Additional Support Documents [6. research & development, pp. 176-194])
14. Have you observed any positive outcomes of combination of teaching and research? Yes No If yes, give details.
Response: Definitely, the research activities through the combination of teaching and research within the campus have positively impacted the overall quality education provided this institution. This impact can be seen in the overall performance of our graduates. For instance, the tracer study of 2016 shows that 42% of the graduates of the institution were employed within a year of graduation.
Likewise, the positive impact of this combination can also be seen in the involvement of the faculty members in the research activities created by the University Grants Commission, Nepal and Tribhuvan University. For instance, recently, the faculty members of this campus are awarded the collaborative and faculty grants of the University Grants Commission, Nepal and some faculty members have received the faculty development grants from Tribhuvan University. Thus, the grants received by the faculty of this institution show that the faculty members of the institution have built their academic strengths to share their research experience with their students that will combine teaching and research. Additionally, our faculty have engaged in publishing their research papers in national and international journals which can be taken as positive outcomes of combination of teaching and research.
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 19
(See Annex 10, Tracer Study Report 2016, pp. 250-324; Annex 22, Research Grants from External Agencies, pp. 676-682; Additional Support Documents [6. research & development, pp. 176-194])
15. Provide institution specific other innovations which have contributed to its growth and development.
Response: Some of other specific innovations within the campus that have contributed to the growth and development of this institution have been listed below:
The campus has recently hired some of its computer literate students in its database system development on the part time basis. It was part time job opportunities for student that happened first time in the history of this institution and probably in other higher education institutions in Nepal. This has created a platform for ongoing students of the campus to have the real job experience.
Students of some academic programs publish journals that include the research articles by the faculty members as well as the students of the campus. For instance, “Aam Sanchar ra Patrakarita” (in Nepali) by the students of BA (Mass Communication & Journalism Group) and “English Language Teaching VIEWS” by the students of M.Ed. (English Education Group) are the examples. Similarly, the students of the campus also publish magazines such as “Creative Science” by the students of the Institute of Science & Technology, and “Resolution” by the students M.Sc. Physics. The PNC BBA Sphere publishes an annual publication entitled “BBA Magazine”. The involvement of students in publications has certainly enhanced the overall development of the campus.
Audio Library for Blinds can be considered a specific innovation in the campus because this sort of library is the single most important initiative made the institution in the western region of Nepal. This has provided space for one of the disadvantaged sections of the society, helping the campus in the overall development of the institution.
Additionally, the campus has received the “Best Campus of the Year” this year on the occasion of Education Day 2018. The award was given by the Ministry of Education, the Government of Nepal upon the recommendation of UGC, Nepal. (See Additional Support Documents [2. minutes of executive committee & standing committee, pp. 51-84]; Annex 41, Payment Documents, pp. 1157-1172 [payment for student part timers, pp. 1157-1160]; Annex 23, Journals & Magazines, pp. 684-723; Annex 18, Library Report of 2017-18, pp. 473-488; Additional Support Documents [6. research & development, pp. 176-194]; Additional Support Documents [7. best campus award, pp. 195-203])
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 20
CRITERION 2: CURRICULAR ASPECTS (10 MARKS) 16. Is there any provision for ensuring consistency of teaching and learning with the academic goals and objectives of the institution? (0.5) Yes No If yes, give details.
Response: As stated above in response 1 and 2, the academic goals and objectives of the campus are in line with the mission, vision and goals of the institution that ensures consistency of teaching and learning with the desired goals. Yes, the campus has clearly stated the job responsibilities of the standing committee. The standing committee enforces and monitors the teaching learning process in line with the overall goals and objectives of the institution. Similarly, the academic audit unit frequently conducts studies on this process and recommends to the standing committee for further improvement and maintain consistency of the process. (See Additional Support Documents [2. minutes of executive committee & standing committee, pp. 51-84]; Annex 1, Five-Year Strategic Plan 2016-2020, pp. 2-16; Annex 12, Academic Audit Report 2018, pp. 395-402)
17. Are programs flexible enough to offer students the following benefits? (0.5 x 3 = 1.5) a) Time frame matching student convenience b) Horizontal mobility c) Elective options
Response: Yes, the campus is flexible enough to offer its students all three benefits. For instance, the campus runs classes in the morning, day, and evening shifts as per the convenience of the students. The students can choose shifts and even can transfer from one subject to another. Similarly, students are facilitated with horizontal mobility. For instance, students doing Master’s in English can change the program and admit into Master’s in Sociology or M.Ed. in English Education. There are many such instances to facilitate students with such mobility. The campus has also offered elective subjects to choose from. For instance, a Master’s student can opt for thesis writing, but he or she cannot complete it due to his or her time or other reasons, he or she can change the elective subject and can opt for paper. (See Annex 25, Class Routines, pp. 779-815; Additional Support Documents [13. regular academic courses, pp. 263-413])
18. Indicate the efforts to promote quality of education with provision of skills transfer among the students such as (0.5 x 5 = 2.5) a) Capacity to learn b) Communication skills c) Numerical skills d) Use of information technology e) Work as a part of a team and independently SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 21
Please give evidence
Response: The campus has made a number of efforts to promote the overall personality of its students such as capacity to learn, communication skills, numerical skills, the use of information technology and working independently or in a team. First, the teachers provide students with assignments so that the students can improve their learning ability. The teachers also regularly organize seminar presentations for students, using technologies so that the students can improve their communication and numerical skills as well as they would be familiar with the use of technology in the teaching learning process. Most importantly, the students need to learn skills to work independently and in a team so that they can be able to adjust to real life after their graduating from the institution.
Similarly, the campus has a provision of conducting extra skillful courses such as the basic computer course and English language course. These courses are offered to the students for skill transfer among them. (See Annex 1, Five-Year Strategic Plan 2016-2020, pp. 2-16; Additional Support Documents [12. self-sustaining (non-credit) courses, pp. 155-262])
19. Are there any additional focused programs and electives offered by institution? (1) Yes No If yes, give details.
Response: Yes, the campus offers additional focused programs and electives to its students depending on the nature of the academic programs. For instance, the university courses are designed as per the need of the international market. So each course for the academic programs lists a number of electives in order to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
Concerning the additional focused programs, the campus has considered new programs such as B.Sc. CSIT, BALLB, BPA and MPA programs because they promote the mission of the institution by fulfilling the high demands of job markets. So the campus has started offering these programs recently. (See Annex 26, Courses/Curriculum Structures, pp.817-863; Additional Support Documents [13. regular academic courses, pp. 263-413])
20. Has the institution taken any initiative to contribute/feedback to the curriculum of the university? Give evidence with the examples of last 4-5 years. (1)
Response: There are a few faculty members of the campus who have contributed to the curriculum design of the university. Prof. Dr. Chandra Bahadur Thapa wa a member of the university subject committee of Botany for a long time. He has also been the science subject Committee of Pokhara University. Similarly, Prof. Dr. Bishwo Kalyan Parajuli SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 22
has been the subject committee member of Sociology/Anthropology, TU. Similarly, Prof. Bishwo Raj Adhikari has newly been appoints as a member of the university subject committee of English. There are numerous examples. (See Annex 40, Letters, 1129-1155 [tu & pu subject committee, pp. 1144-1149])
21. Is there any mechanism to obtain feedback from academic peers and employers? (1) Yes No If yes, give details.
Response: Yes, there are. For instance, the campus standing committee is the major mechanism to monitor and control academic activities within the institution. They occasionally hold meetings to discuss on the feedback received from academic peers and employers. Similarly, departments under each Faculty/Institute hold meetings to critically discuss on the feedback of its faculty, students and experts. Some feedback is obtained from the complaint boxes placed at different locations of the institutions.
Recently, 9 February 2018, the Department of Political Science held interactions with teaching staff, non-teaching staff and student separately to discuss on the implementation of semester system at Prithvi Narayan Campus. The department collected feedback from the participants. (See Additional Support Documents [2. minutes of executive committee & standing committee, pp. 51-84]; Annex 3, TU Rules & Regulations, pp. 46-78 (duties, responsibilities and rights of the departments, p. 76]; Annex 37, Stakeholders’ Feedback, pp. 1082-1087; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin Year 3, Issue 1, March-August 2018, pp. 218-235 [interaction on semester system, p. 3])
22. Give details of institution-industry-neighborhood networks if any? (1)
Response: The campus has maintained its good networks with industries, financial institutions, law firms and local government agencies. The campus sends its students to these institutions for internship programs. For instance, the campus is closely working with Nepal Bank Limited and other local financial institutions. This network has provided the students of the campus with hands-on trainings for future placements. (See Annex 28, Students’ Field Visits/Internships, pp. 885-895; Additional Support Documents [5. extension programs, pp. 126-175])
23. Does the institution inculcate civic responsibilities among the students? Give brief explanation in terms of activities. (0.5)
Response: Yes. The campus frequently encourages its students to engage in civic responsibilities so that they understand their duties towards the society they live in. For instance, BBA students occasionally organize blood donation camps in order to perform
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 23
voluntary service to the society. Recently, on 6 March 2018, the PNC Alumni organized a blood donation program that could collect 88 pint of blood.
The students of BALLB (2070 batch) campaigned the “Relief Campaign for Flood Victims in Saptari” in 2073 BS in Saptari. They raised the relief fund to help the flood victim in Saptari. For instance, they distributed stationery materials to the students of Rastriya Primary School, Tilathi-1, Saptari. (See Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 2, Issue 1, Sept. 2017-Feb. 2018, 218-235 [blood donation camp, p.10]; Annex 32, Extension Programs, pp. 939-993 [a letter from rastriya primary school, saptari, pp. 957-958]; (See Annex 28, Students’ Field Visits/Internships, pp. 885-895; Additional Support Documents [5. extension programs, pp. 126-175])
24. What are the efforts of the institution towards all-round personality development of the learners? Give brief explanation in terms of activities. (0.5)
Response: The campus has established the Sports & Student Welfare Division in order to organize various extra-curricular activities for its students. The extra-curricular activities include sports, cultural programs, debates, quiz contests, etc. that help in all- round development of the students. For instance, on 17-26 December 2017, the Awareness Group of Technical Science (AGTS), Prithvi Narayan Campus, organized the “Inter-Faculty Sports Meet-2017”. Student teams representing different faculties participated in various sports activities including 7A-side football, men’s volleyball, women’s volleyball, cricket and athletes. The AGTS organized the annual conference on the topic “Science for Better Life – Transforming Our Future” on 23-24 2015 in the campus. The students of B.Sc. program presented their papers on different aspects of science. (See Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 1 March-August 2018, pp. 218-235 [inter- faculty sports meet-2017, p. 12]; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 1, Issue 1, July-Dec. 2016, pp. 218-235 [annual conference p. 12]; Annex 32, Extension Programs, pp. 939- 993 [inter-faculty sports meet-2017, pp. 975-977], [sports participation by bba students, 959-961]; Additional Support Documents [5. extension programs, pp. 126-175])
25. What are the practices of the institution to impart moral and ethical value based education? Give examples of some practices. (0.5)
Response: First and foremost, every member in the campus whether it is a faculty or a staff, or a student is abide by the code of conducts adopted by the rules and regulations of the university. Apart from this formal provision of the university, the campus believes that the students should be given the moral and value based education. Each department organizes an orientation program for its new intake students and orients its students about discipline, punctuality, examination rules and regulations, and the method of SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 24
learning. Similarly, each faculty of the campus encourages its students to apply moral and ethical values in life. (See Annex 3, TU Rules & Regulations, pp. 46-78 [tu organizational and academic administration rules 2057 bs, pp. 61-64])
CRITERION 3: TEACHING LEARNING AND EVALUATION SYSTEM (15 MARKS) 26. Which of the following methods do you apply in admitting the new graduates? Select as many as apply. (1) Yes with justification = 0.25, Yes without justification = 0.10 No = 0, otherwise stated
through academic records through written entrance tests through group discussions through interviews through combination of above all
Response: The campus has adopted both annual and semester system for its various courses of study. Since the academic programs in the annual system admit relatively more students than the semester system. So the applicants for the programs in the annual system are evaluated on the basis of their academic records only. But the applicants for all programs in the semester system are evaluated on the basis of academic records, written entrance tests and personal interviews. (See Annex 31, Admission Procedures, 930-937; Additional Support Documents [11. admission process, pp. 241-254])
27. Is there any provision for assessing students’ needs and aptitudes for a course? (0.5) Yes No If yes, cite examples.
Response: Yes, there are. First, after new intake students get admitted into the academic programs, they are given orientation programs on the nature, objectives and contents of the courses as well as academic programs. Even at the time of admission, he students are given counseling individually regarding the scope of the course as per their academic record and background. Usually, the elective courses are offered in the second year or semester onwards, so the students are given advice during their classes. Overall, the student counseling and consultancy services under the Sports & Student Welfare Division looks after the case of assessing students’ needs and aptitudes for selections of courses. (See Annex 29, Orientations, Classes, etc., pp. 897-924)
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 25
28. Does the institution provide bridge/remedial courses to the academically weak and disadvantaged students? (0.5) Yes No If yes, cite examples (UGC or other supports received in this regard may be indicated).
Response: Yes, it does. Usually, remedial classes are conducted in the departments where the students are weak. Such classes are conducted after the completion of regular classes. In addition, when the regular classes are not completed during the session, the students are called for such classes and for seminars even on Saturday and on holidays.
The students are also provided with extra courses for communication skills so that they can easily achieve the objectives of the courses. For that purpose, the course on the basic English language has been offered to the students. (See Annex 33, Seminar/Workshop/Conference/Symposium, pp. 995-1027; Additional Support Documents [12. self-sustaining (non-credit) courses, pp. 255-262])
29. Does the institution encourage the teachers to make a teaching-plan? (0.5) Yes No If yes, gives details.
Response: Yes, the campus encourages its teachers to prepare lesson plans before they enter into their classes. In principle, in B.Ed. and M.Ed. classes, lesson plans are taken as part of their courses, so the lesson plans are mandatory because the teachers have to teach their students about the lesson plans. In other academic programs such as BBA, BBS, MBS, BALLB, and M.Sc. Physics, the teachers go to the classrooms with their teaching plans. Recently, the campus has introduced all its Master’s programs in the semester system. Lesson plans are mandatorily applied to teach these courses. For instance, the Department of English has such a provision for teachers to prepare lesson plans and conduct classes accordingly. (See Annex 27, Lesson Plan, pp. 865-883)
30. Are syllabi in harmony with the academic/teaching calendar? (0.5) Yes No If yes, give details of implementation in terms of monitoring, coverage, correction, etc
Response: Yes, but the syllabi are locally adjusted with the academic calendar introduced by the campus. In spite of the campus’s efforts to apply the academic calendar published by the university, sometimes due to the frequent changes with the university’s academic calendar, the campus has to compromise with the university’s academic calendar and work as per the local academic calendar published by the campus. Yes, the standing committee and concerned departments of the campus hold meetings to discuss on how to adjust the syllabi with the academic calendar published by the university and fit into the local academic calendar published by the campus. Specifically, the semester SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 26
system courses need to keep up with the academic calendar otherwise the teachers would not complete the courses. (See Annex 5, Academic Calendar, 104-117)
31. How does the institution supplement the lecture method of teaching with other teaching methods with specific weightage in terms of hours? (directed studies, assignments, presentations) (0.5) Produce some examples.
Response: The campus believes that the lecture method still dominates the classrooms, but things have changed since the institution has started working on the QAA processing. The campus has now realized that the teachers should be encouraged to use other teaching methods, especially using technologies and newer methods that are learner- oriented such as using multimedia and social media, team teaching, group discussion, seminar presentation, demonstration, field visits and so on. (See Annex 33, Seminar/Workshop/Conference/Symposium, pp. 995-1027; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 1, March-August 2018, pp. 218-235 [news, p. 11])
32. Is there a facility to prepare audio visuals and other teaching aids? (0.5) Yes No If yes, give details about the facilities.
Response: Yes, the campus facilitates its faculty to prepare locally available teaching aids including audio visuals. In fact, the teachers in the departments under the Faculty of Education teach their students to prepare teaching aids as part of their courses. But in other departments including the departments under the Faculty of Education the teachers can use the computers that are available in each department or library or computer laboratories and produce audio visuals for teaching purposes. Similarly, the teachers can also produce other teaching aids such as posters, playcards, charts, etc. out of locally available materials. (See Annex 29, Orientations, Classes, etc., pp. 897-924 [master’s students, pp. 898-903)
33. Furnish the following for the last two years. (1.5) Teaching days per semester or per year against the requirement: 150 (per year) Working days per week against the requirement: 6 days (per year) Work load per week (for full time teachers): 15/12 (per year) Work load per week (for part time teachers): (It depends on the availability of classes) Ratio of full-time teachers to part-time teachers: 1.81 (average per year) Ratio of teaching staff to non-teaching staff: 5.05 (average per year) Percentage of classes taught by full-time faculty: 63.73% (average per year) Number of visiting professors/practitioners: Tentatively 35 (per year)
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 27
(See Annex 25, Class Routines, pp. 779-815; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 1, Issue 1, July-Dec. 2016, pp. 218-235 [visiting fellow, visiting professor, p. 3]; Annex 40, Letters, pp. 1129-1155 [visiting faculty, pp. 1133-1135]; Additional Support Documents [4. exchange programs, pp. 103-125])
34. a) Are the students oriented to the program, evaluation system, codes of conduct other relevant institutional provisions and requirements? If yes give evidence. (0.5) b) Are evaluation methods communicated to students at the beginning of the academic session? (0.5) Yes No If yes give evidence.
Response: Yes, there are. a) Each department organizes an induction (orientation) program for its new intake students to introduce them to the academic program, evaluation system, codes of conduct and other rules and regulations of the campus. b) All new intake students will start with the orientation program organized by each department and then the students will be given evaluation methods of each course by each teacher at the beginning of the academic session. So the students are familiar with the modes of evaluation so that they can follow the instruction of the teachers. (See Annex 29, Orientations, Classes, etc., 897-924; Annex 3, TU Rules & Regulations, pp. 46-78 [tu organizational and academic administration rules 2057 bs, pp. 61-64]; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 2, Issue 1, Sept. 2017-Feb.2018, pp. 218-235 [bba program orientation, p. 11)
35. Does the institution monitor the overall performance of students periodically? (0.5) Yes No If yes, give details
Response: Yes, it does. The campus monitors the overall performance of its students periodically. The monitoring is done institutionally by the heads of each department and by the standing committee members through the concerned assistant campus chiefs. It is also done individually by the course instructor (teacher) of each course. The individual teachers also keep their students’ portfolio and periodically conduct skill tests orally and in writing. Similarly, the department and the campus also organize extra-curricular activities such as sports, quiz tests, debates, cultural programs, etc. in order to improve the overall performance of the students. (See Additional Support Documents [2. minutes of executive committee & standing committee, pp. 51-84]; Annex 29, Orientations, Classes, etc., 897-924)
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 28
36. In the case of new appointment of the teaching faculty made by the institution itself, select among the following funding criteria that are evidential in your institution. (1.5) Vacancy Operational Mechanism Category Job Selection Examination Evaluatio Interview Job Contract Advertis Committe by Selection n by Through ement e Committee of Demo Selection Formal Formation Classes Committee Appointment Letter Self-Funded Government Funded Any other category: a. b. c.
Response: All new appointments of the teaching faculty on full time basis are made by the Tribhuvan University Service Commission. The campus also follows the criteria of selecting full time contract faculty and part time faculty as per the university’s guidelines. (See Annex 39, Recruitment of Staff, pp. 1117-1127)
37. Provide the following information (in number) about the teaching staff recruited during the last two years. (0.5) Teaching staff recruited from … the same district it operates from other districts same institution other institutions Year I: 3 (2016) Year I: 11 (2016) Year I: 4. (2016) Year II: 8 (2017) Year II: 21 (2017) Year II: 14 (2017)
(See Annex 39, Recruitment of Staff, pp. 1117-1127)
38. a) Does the institution have the freedom and the resources to appoint and pay temporary/ ad hoc teaching staff? Are such provisions define in the institution act/board decision/minute? Yes No If yes, give details of their salary structure and other benefits. (0.5) b) Does the institution have provision and practice for inviting visiting/guest faculty on regular basis? Yes No If yes give details (0.5)
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 29
Response: Yes, the campus has both a) and b) provisions and practices. a) The campus is a decentralized constituent campus of Tribhuvan University, so as per the decentralization act of the university, this campus can enjoy more freedom to mobilize its resources and decide on institutional decision of the campus. Accordingly, the campus can appoint and pay temporary or ad hoc teaching staff. b) The campus has also a provision and practice of inviting visiting or guest faculty on regular basis. For instance, the Faculty of Law has an agreement for the exchange of visiting faculty with the School of Law of Kathmandu University since 28 July 2016.
Similarly, other academic programs also invite visiting or guest faculty for lectures. For instance, the campus also invited Prof. Dr. Tek Nath Dhakal, Head, of the Central Department of Public Administration, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur as a Visiting Professor on 8 June 2018. He lecture on the topic “Public Administration and Its Scope”. The students of BPA first semester and third semester took part in the lecture.
Likewise, the B.Sc. Geology program at the Institute of Science & Technology invited two Visiting Professors namely Dr. Dilli Ram Thapa and Mr. Niraj Singh Thakuri of Birendra Multipel Campus, Chitawan to give lectures for the first and second semester students. They were in the campus from 30 May 2018 to 8 June 2018 and lectured for the courses in Fundamentals of Geology for the first semester and Sedimentology and Historical Geology, and Structural Geology, Menerology and Petrology for the second semester. (See Annex 38, Agreement/Contract Papers, pp. 1089-1115 [inter-university agreement letter with the school of law, kathmandu university, p. 1089]; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 1, Issue 1, July-Dec. 2016, pp. 218-235 [visiting fellow, visiting professor, p. 3], [guest lecture, p. 11]; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 2, Issue 1, Sept. 2017-Feb. 2018, pp. 218-235 [visiting professor, p. 2]; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 1, March- August 2018, pp. 218-235 [visiting professors, p.10]; Annex 40, Letters, 1129-1155 [thank you letters for visiting faculty, pp. 1133-1135]; (See Additional Support Documents [4. exchange programs, pp. 103-125])
39. Number of teaching staff who have attended seminars/conferences/workshops as participants/resource persons/organizer in the last two years: (1.5) Participants Resource persons Organizer Institutional level 17 5 4 National level 43 17 12 International level 13 3 3 (See Annex 13, Academic Survey Report 2018, pp. 404-413; Annex 33, Seminar/Workshop/Conference/Symposium, 995-1027 [nepali folk literature international symposium 2018, pp. 1007-1020], [campus website screenshot news on international symposium, p. 1006])
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 30
40. Does the institution follow the self-appraisal method to evaluate the performance of the faculty in teaching, research and extension program? (0.5) Yes No If yes, how are teachers encouraged to use the feedback? Provide justifications.
Response: Yes, the campus has a provision to self-evaluate the overall performance of the faculty members. This self-evaluation of the faculty is conducted by the standing committee of the campus. The committee often forms a teachers’ evaluation unit to evaluate the teachers’ performance in teaching, research and extension programs. The teachers’ evaluation unit keeps the record of the results of each course for the academic programs to analyze the teachers’ performance. Similarly, the unit also distributes a faculty survey form to analyze the teachers’ involvement in research and extension programs such as national and international seminars, conferences or workshops and their expertise given to the outside society. (See Additional Support Documents [2. minutes of executive committee & standing committee, pp. 51-84]; Annex 13, Academic Survey Report 2018, pp. 404-413)
41. Does the institution follow any other teacher performance appraisal method? (0.5) Yes No If yes, give details of the same and state how the results of the appraisal are used.
Response: Yes, the campus also follows other appraisal method for evaluating the teachers’ performance. On the campus anniversary, which is celebrated on 1 September each year, the campus distributes the “Best Teacher” award on the basis of their performance in their teaching, research and extension programs. This award encourages the teachers to work hard for the betterment of the institution. Similarly, other apex bodies of the campus also organize such programs to encourage the faculty. For instance, every year, the TU Teachers’ Association, Prithvi Narayan Campus distributes awards to encourage the faculty. (See Annex 32, Extension Programs, pp. 939-993 [minute of standing committee, pp. 985-986]; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 1, March-August 2018, pp. 218-235 [campus anniversary celebrated, p. 3]; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 2, Issue 1, Sept. 2017-Feb. 2018, pp. 218-235 [long service award, p. 11]; Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 2, Sept. 2018-Feb. 2019, pp. 126-132 [tu teachers’ association felicitates])
42. Does the institution collect student evaluation on institution experience? (0.5) Yes No If yes, what is the significant feedback from students and how has it been used?
Response: Yes, the campus has a mechanism to evaluate the students’ institutional experience while in the campus. The feedback obtained from the students can be used in the future plan of the campus. Recently, the campus has conducted a tracer study of its SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 31
graduates of 2016 and 2017. The study revealed that the campus needs to increase its facilities for its students. (See Annex 10, Tracer Study Report 2016, pp. 250-324; Annex 11, Tracer Study Report 2017, pp. 326-393)
43. Does the institution conduct refresher courses/seminars/conferences/symposia/ workshops/programs for faculty development? (0.5) Yes No If yes, give details.
Response: Yes, the campus does. The campus through its departments conducts refresher courses, seminars, conferences, symposia, workshops and other trainings for faculty development. For instance, the Department of Nepali has conducted an international symposium on folk literature recently. Many other such programs are funded by the campus itself, University Grants Commission, Nepal and other external agencies. (See Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 2, Issue 1, Sept. 2017-Feb.2018, pp. 218-235 [dr. pramod, p. 3], [science & technology, p. 4], [qualitative research. p. 4], [faculty orientation, p. 11]; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 1, March-August 2018, pp. 218-235 [seminar/workshop on myths & folklores, p. 11])
44. Give details of faculty development programs and the number of teachers who benefited out of them, during the last two years. (0.5) Faculty Development Programs No. of Beneficiaries Mini Research Grants 14 Study Leave for M.Phil. and Ph.D. 16
Response: There is not accurate data on this, but the campus will keep records of the faculty development programs now onwards. (See Annex 43, List of Teaching & Non-Teaching Staff pp. 1179-1211; Annex 21, Research Committee Activities, pp. 639-674; Annex 40, Letters, pp. 1129-1155 [study leave, pp. 1150-1152])
45. Furnish information about notable innovations in teaching. (0.5)
Response: The campus has adopted some notable innovations in teaching. For instance, at the Department of English, Dr. Min Pun conducts classes where students give short presentations everyday followed by questions from their peers and then the overall summing up by the teacher. In this way, students attend seminar-type classes every day. Group discussions are conducted occasionally; 3 to 4 seminars are held during each session including the last seminar as the outreach event (last seminar conducted outside the campus), which is usually organized in Lakeside, Pokhara.
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 32
(See Annex 29, Orientations, Classes, et., pp. 897-924 [seminar on saturday, ma english with pictures, pp. 910-911]; Annex 26, Courses/Curriculum Structures, 817- 863 [physics, pp. 826-863])
46. What are the national and international linkages established for teaching and/or research? (0.5)
Response: Recently, the campus has started establishing national and international linkages for teaching and research. Recently, the campus and Hefei University, China have signed the agreement for academic exchange and international cooperation. Similarly, the collaboration between the campus and two Japanese universities: Wakkanai Hakusei Gokuin University and Muroran Institute of Technology is in the process of signing the agreement which will take place in Japan soon.
As part of the collaboration, two Japanese professors were in the campus to give presentations on the use of IT in biological sciences. In near future, the Japanese universities are going to establish an ICT center in the campus in order to promote more international exchange and cooperation. Similarly, the Hefei University has shown its interest to send their faculty and students for academic exchange. (See Annex 35, International Relations, 1057-1078; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 1, March-August 2018, pp. 218-235 [friendly relations, p. 2]; Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 2, Sept. 2018-Feb. 2019, pp. 126-132 [campus chief thapa visits japan]; Additional Support Documents [4. exchange programs, pp. 103-125])
CRITERION 4: RESEARCH, CONSULTANCY AND EXTENSION (10 MARKS) 47. Research budget of the institution in % of total operating budget. (1)
Response: For the financial year 2073/74 BS, the campus has a research budget of 3,00,000 rupees that is 0.68% of the total operating budget. (See Annex 16, Financial Report 2074/75 BS, pp. 433-466)
48. How does the institution promote research? (1) . Encourage PG students doing project work . Teachers are given study leave . Teachers provided with seed money . Provision of Research Committee . Adjustment in teaching load/schedule
Response: “Yes” to all above questions. The PG students are encouraged to do project works such as thesis writing. Orientations on proposal and thesis writing are given to them. The research committee of the campus also provides 20 “thesis and project report SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 33
writing” grants each year that encourage the students to opt for thesis writing and project works. Many teachers are given study leave for their higher education such as M.Phil study and Ph.D. study. The teachers are also provided with 20,000 rupees to the teachers who hold Ph.D. degrees and 15,000 rupees to the teachers who are non-Ph.D. holders. These amounts are given to the teachers as seed money to conduct their research projects.
The campus has formed a research committee to function research activities in the institutions. Currently, the campus has the 9-member research committee headed by the Campus Chief Prof. Dr. Chandra Bahadur Thapa.
The campus considers research activities as an essential part of teaching. So the campus encourages its teachers to undertake research projects. The teachers are also provided with paid leave to encourage them to go for further studies. (See Annex 2o, Research Improvement Programs-Criteria & Procedures 2018, pp. 602-637; Annex 21, Research Committee Activities, pp. 639-674)
49. Is the institution engaged in PhD level programs? (1) Yes No If yes, give details
Response: No. The university does not allow these academic programs to run outside of its respective Dean’s Offices.
50. What percentage of teachers is engaged in active research - guiding research scholars, operating projects, publishing regularly, etc.? Give details. (0.5)
Response: About 38.46% of the teachers are engaged in active research and 46% publishing research articles in national and international journals. In regard guiding research scholars, all faculty members who teach in the Master’s level guide students’ theses. (See Annex 13, Academic Survey Report 2018, pp. 404-413)
51. Mention the admission status of the MPhil/PhD graduates in your institution. (0.5) Level Enrollment Status Total Full Time Part Time MPhil PhD
Response: Not Applicable
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 34
52. How many PhDs have been awarded during the last five years? (1)
Response: Not Applicable
53. Does the institution provide financial support to research students? (0.5) Yes No If yes, give % of financial support from recurring cost.
Response: Yes, the institution provides financial support to research students. The financial support is made in the form “Thesis/Project Report Writing Grants” given to 20 students each year. In addition to this, many departments award the “Thesis Scholarships” to the best thesis writing students. (See Annex 20, Research Improvement Programs-Criteria & Procedure 2018, pp. 602- 637; Annex 4, Meeting Minutes, pp. 80-102 [department of political science for scholarships to students, p. 102]; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 1, Issue 1, July-Dec. 2016, pp. 218-235 [campus anniversary celebrated, p. 3]; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 1, March-August 2018, pp. 218-235 [scholarships to campus employees’ kids, p. 3], [campus anniversary celebrated, p. 4].
54. Provide details of the ongoing research projects: (0.5) Type of Projects No. of Project Revenues Projects (in NRs.) Mini Research Grants (Individual for Faculty with non- 10 150,000 Ph.D. Degrees) Mini Research Grants (Group for Faculty with Ph.D. 4 80,000 Degrees) Thesis/Project Report Writing Grants (for Bachelor’s 16 48,000 and Master’s Students) Total 40 278,000
Response: Yes, the campus has a provision to self-evaluate the overall performance of the faculty members. This self-evaluation of the faculty is conducted by the standing committee of the campus. The committee often forms a teachers’ evaluation unit to evaluate the teachers’ performance in teaching, research and extension programs. The teachers’ evaluation unit keeps the record of the results of each course for the academic programs to analyze the teachers’ performance. Similarly, the unit also distributes a faculty survey form to analyze the teachers’ involvement in research and extension programs such as national and international seminars, conferences or workshops and their expertise given to the outside society. (See Annex 21, Research Committee Activities, pp. 639-674)
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 35
55. Give details of ongoing research projects funded by external agencies. (0.5) Funding agency Amount (Rs.) Duration (Years) Collaboration, if any University Grants 2,000,000 3 Years Tribhuvan University, Commission, Nepal Institute of Forestry, Pokhara University Grants 300,000 2 Years - Commission, Nepal (See Annex 16, Financial Report 2018, pp. 433-466)
56. Does the institution have research/academic publication? If yes, give details of publications in the last two years. (0.5)
Response: Yes, the campus has academic publications. Overall, the campus through its departments and units publishes 25 academic journals. The research committee publishes 2 research journals: Prithvi Multidisciplinary Journal publishes project reports conducted in financial collaboration of the research committee and produced by the faculty grantees; Prithvi Academic Journal is a peer reviewed, open access international journal that includes research articles by national and international authors. The Prithvi Narayan Campus Unit of Tribhuvan University Teachers’ Association publishes a journal entitled Pragyamanch that publishes research articles by the faculty members from all departments. Each department publishes journals that include research articles by its members. Apart from these, the students also publish research journals. For instance, English Language Teaching VIEWS by the students of M.Ed. second year. (See Annex 23, Journals & Magazine, pp. 684-723; Annex 9, Prospectus 2018-19, pp. 237-248)
57. Does the institution offer consultancy services? (0.5) Yes No If yes, give details.
Response: Yes, the campus offers consultancy services to various organizations in all sectors. For instance, a group of the faculty members from different departments provide consultancy service for developing the metropolitan city’s profile. For instance, since 2073, Prof. Dr. Krishna K.C. and Mr. Khagendra Poudel of the Department of Geography are working as Coordinator and Member respectively. So the campus is closely working with the Pokhara Lekhnath Metropolitan City.
In 2073 BS, Mr. Khagendra Poudel of the Department of Geography has also given consultancy services to carry out the then Pokhara Sub-Metropolitan City’s Poverty Demarcation in which he has been the Coordinator. This team includes other faculty members from the campus such as Prof. Dr. Krishna KC, Prof. Dr. Vikas KC, and Prof. Dr. Lekha Nath Bhattarai.
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 36
Mr. Khagendra Poudel of the Department of Geography has given consultancy services as trainer for National Nature Conservation Fund Annapurna Conservation Area Project, Lwang in Kaski in 2070 BS. Another faculty member from the same department Mr. Naresh Poudel has worked for Khairenitar Village Development Committee’s Resource Mapping and completed the project in 2070 BS.
Prof. Dr. Vikash Kumar KC at the Department of Statistics has been a consultant researcher for the Organization for Integrated Research & Development (OIRED) Nepal since long. He has given consultancy service to this organization for a number of research projects.
Prof. Dr. Shova Kant Lamichhane served for Ministry of Science & Technology, BP Memorial Planetarium Observatory & Science Museum as Executive Direction of Development Board from 2069 to 2073. Dr. Lamichhane is a faculty at the Department of Science & Environmental Education in the campus.
Similarly, the faculty members from the Faculty of Management are involved in providing financial consultancy to various financial institutions in Pokhara. For instance, Mr. Resam Lal Poudel has been giving consultancy service to Pokhara Finance Pvt. Ltd., working as a financial trainer. (See Additional Support Documents [15. utilization of infrastructure facilities by external agencies, pp. 469-481]; Annex 40, Letters, pp. 1129-1155 [consultancy, pp. 1136-1149])
58. Does the institution have a designated person for extension activities? (0.5) Yes No If yes, indicate the nature of the post as – Full-time Part-time Additional charge
Response: Yes, the institution has a designated person for extension activities. Mr. Resam Lal Poudel who is working as a Lecturer at the Faculty of Management is appointed as Coordinator of the Extension Programs Unit. (See Annex 4, Meeting Minutes, pp. 80-102 [decision of the executive committee to appoint Mr. Resam Lal Poudel as extension programs coordinator, p. 82])
59. Indicate the extension activities of the institution and its details: (0.5) Community development Training in Disaster Management Health and hygiene awareness Medical camps Adult education and literacy Blood donation camps AIDS awareness Environment awareness Any other (See Annex 15, Extension Programs Report 2018, pp. 422-431; Additional Support Documents [5. extension programs, pp. 126-175]; Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 2,
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 37
Sept. 2018-Feb. 2019, pp. 126-132 [plantation by lions’ club of pokhara], [blood donation by alumni])
60. Are there any outreach programs carried out by the institution (e.g. Population Education Club, Adult Education, National Literacy Mission, etc.)? (0.5) Yes No If yes, justify.
Response: Yes, the institution carries out some outreach programs. For instance, the Zoological Society of Pokhara under the Department of Zoology in collaboration with the National Trust for Nature Conservation Annapurna Conservation Area Project, Hariyo Kharka, Pokhara the 3-day outreach program entitled “23rd National Wildlife Week – 2075” in the campus and its surrounding areas.
A group of faculty members at the Department of Physics have formed a club named “Physics Research Initiatives Pokhara” in short it is PRI Pokhara that is involved in scientific activities inside and outside the campus. For instance, it organized the PRI Workshop on Python in New Road, Pokhara on 8-10 March 2018 for physicists and mathematicians. Similarly, on 11-12 May 2018, it organized the same workshop in Dhampus Resort, Dhampus for engineering faculty members. It invites a guest speaker to speak on different aspects of science every Saturday. (See Annex 32, Extension Programs, 939-993 [a report on 23rd national wildlife week – 2075, 939-948], [scientific activities and physics research activities in prithvi narayan campus, pp. 950-954]; Additional Support Documents [5. extension programs, pp. 126- 175])
61. How are students and teachers encouraged to participate in extension activities? Any defined approaches? (0.5)
Response: Yes, the institution encourages its teachers and students to participate in extension activities. These activities are conducted through the Extension Programs Unit headed by Mr. Resam Lal Poudel, a Lecturer at the Faculty of Management and that comprises of the representatives from the Research Committee, the Sports & Student Welfare Division, Library, Tribhuvan University Teachers’ Association (the campus unit), Tribhuvan University Employees’ Association (the campus unit), Free Students’ Union and PNC Alumni. (See Annex 15, Extension Programs Report 2018, pp. 422-431)
62. Does the institution work and plan the extension activities along with NGO’s and GO’s? Give details of last 3 years. (0.5)
Response: Yes, the campus has just started carrying out the extension activities along with NGOs and GOs. Since the Extension Programs Unit is a newly established cell in SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 38
the campus, the unit will first start documenting the extension activities carried out by the campus spontaneously and without any records and will systematically plan to have more extension activities. (See Annex 15, Extension Programs Report 2018, pp. 422-431; Additional Support Documents [5. extension programs, pp. 126-175])
CRITERION 5: INFRASTRUCTURE AND LEARNING RESOURCES (20 MARKS) A. General Physical Infrastructure 63. Does the institution have a comprehensive master plan indicating the existing buildings and the projected expansion in the future? (0.5)
Response: Yes, the institution has a comprehensive master plan that explains the existing buildings and the projected expansion in the future. The master plan clearly envisioned the expansion of the present institution into the university. The new academic and residential buildings will be constructed as per the need for the university. The roads will be widened and the green space will be expanded. The plan has also envisioned the addition of new academic programs like B.Sc. in agriculture and animal sciences. (See Annex 2, Master Plan 2018, pp. 18-44)
64. a) How does the institution plan to meet the need for augmenting the infrastructure to keep pace with academic growth? Produce plan, if any. (0.5)
Response: The existing as well as the projected land use plans have clearly been explained in the strategic plan of the campus. Similarly, the campus has formed a committee named the “Construction and Procurement Committee” that makes plans for the construction and maintenance of its infrastructure. Recently, the campus has prepared a procurement plan and going to implement it in the near future. (See Annex 1, Five-Year Strategic Plan 2016-2020, 2-16; Additional Support Documents [10. infrastructure development, pp. 223-240])
b) What support facilities are available for conducting the education programs in the institution? (0.5) Laboratory Library Others
Give details
Response: The support facilities are available in the campus in order to smoothly run its academic programs. Apart from laboratory and library, the campus has hostels for boys and girls, audio library for blind students, indoor and outdoor space for sports, health SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 39
center, cafeteria, auditorium hall for conferences, seminar halls, etc. The master plan has also added a common faculty room for teachers besides space for teachers is available in the concerned departments. (See Annex 2, Master Plan 2018, pp,\. 18-44; Annex 1, Five-Year Strategic Plan 2016- 2020, p.2-16; Annex 9, Prospectus 2018-19, pp. 237-248)
65. Does the institution have provision for regular maintenance of its infrastructure? Provide scheme. (0.5)
Response: Yes, it has. The construction and procurement committee assigned by the institution has the major responsibilities to monitor and record all equipments, and perform the regular maintenance of its infrastructure. The institution has maintained the annual budget in its expenditure. The campus has spent 1.34% of the total operating expenditure for the year 2073/74. (See Annex 16, Financial Report 2074/75 BS, pp. 433-466)
66. How does the institution ensure optimum utilization of its infrastructure facilities? Produce the plan. (0.5)
Response: Well, the institution has a plan to ensure optimum utilization of its infrastructure facilities. First, the campus runs its classes in three shifts: in the morning, day and evening so that the maximum students can be benefitted from its infrastructure facilities. The campus has also constructed more than 50 business complex shutters for business purposes from which the campus collects rents from the tenants that generates some income for the institution. (See Annex 25, Class Routines, 779-815; Annex 41, Payment Documents, pp. 1157- 1172; Additional Support Documents [10. infrastructure development, pp. 223-240]; Additional Support Documents [15. utilization of infrastructure facilities by external agencies, pp. 469-481])
67. Does the institution encourage use of the academic facilities by external agencies? (0.5) Yes No If yes, give clearly defined regulations.
Response: Yes, the campus encourages the use of its academic facilities by external agencies. For instance, recently, the BBA students of Janapriya Multiple Campus, Pokhara used the campus football ground for their sports tournament. The campus has allowed the Office of Examinations of Controller of Tribhuvan University to use its classrooms for examination purposes for other western regional constituent and affiliated colleges, generating some income for its infrastructure maintenance. In addition, Public Service Commission, Forestry Campus in Pokhara, and Western Regional Engineering
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 40
Campus in Pokhara use the classrooms for examination and entrance test purposes that also generate some income for its infrastructure maintenance. (See Additional Support Documents [15. utilization of infrastructure facilities by external agencies, pp. 469-481])
68. What efforts are made to keep the institution clean, green and pollution free? Give details. (0.5)
Response: The campus has assigned its general administration to keep its area clean, green and pollution free. The general administration has hired three sweepers to cut the bushes and collect the wastages on the daily wage and regular basis. The campus has also assigned some staff to maintain the gardens. The campus also allows the municipality garbage disposal truck to enter the campus and collect waste materials. In addition, the campus has contracted some local farmers to remove unnecessary grass and use it for farm animals, generating some income for the institution.
Recently, the PNC Alumni, an organization of former students of the campus organized a clean-up campaign to keep the institution clean. The campaign was as part of their activities to contribute to the institution. (See Annex 34, PNC Alumni, pp. 1029-1055 [campus website screenshot for clean-up campaign, p. 1055]; Annex 41, Payment Documents, pp. 1157-1172 [documents of hiring laborers for cleaning bushes with remuneration & attendance sheets, pp. 1161- 1165], [contract paper to cut grass, 1166-1170; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 2, Issue 1, Sept. 2017-Feb. 2018, pp. 218-235 [garden & clean-up campaign, p. 2]; Additional Support Documents [5. extension programs, pp. 126-175])
69. Are there computer facilities in the institution that is easily accessible to students and faculty? (0.5) Computer accessible to the students Computer accessible to the faculty Internet accessible to the faculty Internet accessible to the faculty
Response: Yes, the computer related facilities are available to all students and faculty members of the campus. In all, the campus has 207 desktop computers in different locations of the institution. Similarly, 71 laptops are available to teaching and non- teaching staff of the campus.
The campus has four computer laboratories in different locations in the campus: in the BBA program running building, the commerce building, the science building and the library. The computer laboratory in the library consists of an e-library in which the SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 41
students and faculty members can access to e-books, and online journals. Additionally, the campus has also facilitated its students with free WiFi service. (See Annex 17, Infrastructure Report 2018, pp. 468-471)
70. Give the working hours of the computer centre and its access on holidays and off hours. (0.5)
Response: The computer laboratories remain open during the office hours from 6 am to 8 pm on working days, but they remain closed on holidays. They also remain closed during the lunch hours. However, the free WiFi internet facility can be accessed by all teachers and students around the campus surrounding for 24 hours. (See Annex 17, Infrastructure Report 2018, pp. 468-471)
71. a) How many departments have computers of their own? Give details. (0.5) b) Does the institution have provisions of internet/intercom/CC TV/other facilities. Give details. (0.5)
Response: a) The campus has a total of 278 computers. (See Annex 17, Infrastructure Report 2018, pp. 468-471)
b) Yes, the campus has internet facilities available to all its teachers, students and non- teaching staff. CCTV facilities are available in the library only. Despite the internet and CCTV facilities, the campus has the biometric attendance services for its teachers, and non-teaching staff. (See Annex 17, Infrastructure Report 2018, pp. 468-471)
72. Explain the output of the centre in developing computer aided learning packages in various subjects during the last three years? (0.5) Response: The campus often offers computer aided learning packages for its students. The campus has not yet made any provision to study this output, the study will be done in the future. (See Annex 17, Infrastructure Report 2018, pp. 468-471)
73. Is there any provision for maintaining/updating the computer facilities? Provide the details of the system. (0.5) Response: Yes, the campus has an official contract with Your’s Computers, Bagar, Pokhara for maintaining/updating the computer facilities. Mr. Sanjay Thapa of Vision Computer & Electronics who is a computer operator as well as proprietor has been appointed to fix the problems of computers, printers, CCTV, telephone sets, etc.
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 42
Likewise, the campus has an agreement with the Western Regional Engineering Campus, Lamachaur, Pokhara for engineering consultancy and other computer related technical support such as internet networking, software maintenance, etc. (See Annex 41, Payment Documents, pp. 1157-1172 [contract paper with vision computer & electronics, 1171-1172], [agreement paper with wrc, pp. 1095-1096]; Additional Support Documents [3. memorandum of understanding (MoU), pp. 51-84])
74. Does the institution make use of the services of inter-university facilities? (0.5)
Response: Yes, the campus encourages the use of its facilities by other universities. For instance, the campus allows other universities or institutions to use its sports grounds such as the football ground to be used by Janapriya Multiple Campus, local schools and local clubs. Similarly, the students of Western Regional Engineering Campus in Pokhara and Lumbini Engineering College in Rupendehi (affiliated to Pokhara University and CTEVT) come to the campus to use its land for their project work. (See Additional Support Documents [3. memorandum of understanding (MoU), pp. 51- 84]; Additional Support Documents [15. utilization of infrastructure facilities by external agencies, pp. 469-481])
75. What are the various health services available to the students, teacher and other staff? Give details. (0.5)
Response: The campus has its own health center for its students, teaching and non- teaching staff that provides the first aid facilities.
On 11 Sept. 2012, the Tribhuvan University Teachers’ Association, Prithvi Narayan Campus Unit, had organized an eye health camp for the teachers of this campus. The faculty members of the campus took the benefit of the eye health camp program.
The campus has signed an agreement with Gandaki Medical College Teaching Hospital in Pokhara for health insurance of its students. The students of this campus can get free health service of upto 50,000 rupees. (See Annex 32, Extension Programs, pp. 939-993 [eye camp by tuta, pnc unit, p. 974]; Annex 3, TU Rules & Regulations, pp. 46-78 [office of the senate & executive council- tu, pp. 68-74]; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 1, Issue 1 July-Dec. 2016, pp. 216-235 [health facility to students, p. 2]; Additional Support Documents [3. memorandum of understanding (MoU), pp. 51-84])
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 43
76. What are the physical and infrastructural facilities available in the sports and physical education centre? Give details. (0.5)
Response: The campus has both indoor and outdoor space for sports that are available for its students and teachers. They include football, basketball, volleyball, cricket, table tennis, badminton, judo and athletics. The campus often organizes sports competitions for its teachers and students. (See Annex 17, Infrastructure Report 2018, pp. 468-471; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 1 March-August 2018, pp. 218-235 [inter-faculty sports meet-2017, p. 12]; Annex 9, Prospectus 2018-19, pp. 237-248; Annex 23, Journals & Magazines, pp. 684-723 [golden jubilee smarika 2017-2067, pp. 1-19])
77. What are the incentives given to outstanding sports persons? (0.5)
Response: The campus gives certain amount as incentives to outstanding sports persons. This incentive is given to the teams who participate in the local or national sports tournaments and represent the institution. Similarly, many student players have taken part in local and national sport competitions. (See Annex 32, Extension Programs, pp. 939-993)
78. Give details of the student participation during the last year at the university, regional, national and international meets. (0.5) Level Participation of Students Outcomes District Genesh Adhikari was awarded the third position in the 3rd position 4th Kyokushin Budokai Karate Championship held on 14-15 January 2016 in Pokhara National BBA students team was awarded the second position 2nd position in the TU BBA Football Cup-2018 Genesh Adhikari was awarded the second position in 2nd position the national Inter-Campus Kick Boxing Championship-2068 held on 28-29 Baisakh 2068 BS International Pradeep Adhikari and Mejume Gurung of BALLB Best (2070 Batch) in the “2nd SAARC MOOT Court Researcher Competition, 2018” at the Institute of Legal Studies, Siliguri, India from 23 -25 Feb. 2018
Response: There is no accurate record of the students’ participation in different meets. The campus will start keeping the record of these events by the students at the local, national and international level. (See Annex 32, Extension Programs, pp. 939-993)
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 44
79. Give details of the hostel facilities available in the institution? (0.5)
Response: The campus has the hostel facilities available to the students who come from the outside of the valley. There four student hostels in different locations within the premises of the institution, which are categorized as 2 girl’s hostel with a capacity of 104 girl students, 1 boy’s hostel for science students with a capacity of 46 students and 1 boy’s hostel for general subject students which is under maintenance. These hostels are managed by the general administration and each hostel has a hostel warden appointed by the institution. (See Annex 17, Infrastructure Report 2018, pp. 468-471; Annex 23, Journals & Magazines, pp. 684-723 [golden jubilee smarika 2017-2067, p. 1-19])
80. Give details of the facilities for drinking water and toilets. (0.5)
Response: The campus provides the facilities of drinking water and toilets for its teachers, students, non-teaching staff and visitors. The toilets are available in different locations easily accessible to males and females separately. There are two types of toilets: one type of toilets is public for all and available for 24 hours, but the another type is those toilets which are not open for the public and located inside the buildings.
The campus has again two types of water supply: one type is the main water supply provided by the municipality and another type is the deep boring water supply managed by the campus itself. The students, teachers and non-teaching staff are provided with clean drinking water while they are in the campus. (See Annex 17, Infrastructure Report 2018, pp. 468-471; Annex 23, Journals & Magazines, pp. 684-723 [golden jubilee smarika 2017-2067, p. 1-19])
B. Library as a Learning Resource 81. a) What are the working hours of the library? (0.25) On working days: 6 am to 5 pm (Summer); 6 am to 4 pm (Winter) On holidays: Library remains closed Prior to examinations: 6 am to 5 pm (Summer); 6 am to 4 pm (Winter) (See Annex 18, Library Report 2018, pp. 473-488)
b) Does the library provide open-access to students? (0.25) Yes No
Response: The library of the institution is open-access to all its visitors. But certain rare reference books are kept inside the cabinet locked which can be seen from outside and can be accessed with a permission from the designated staff of the library. (See Annex 18, Library Report 2018, pp. 473-488)
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 45
82. Mention the total collection of documents. (3.5)
Books 94,814 (0.2) Current Journals . Nepalese 35 (0.2) . Foreign 5 (0.2) Magazines 6 (0.2) Reference Books 2,000 (1.0) Text Books 92,000 (0.2) Refereed journals 3 (0.4) Back Volumes of Journals 35 (0.2) E- Information Resources (0.4) . CD’s/DVD’s 1500 . Databases - . Online Journals 34 . AV Resources 350 Special collection Thesis Collection, Nepal Collection, Textbook Collection, World Bank Collection, ICIMOD Collection, ICRC Collection, UN Collection (0.5) (See Annex 18, Library Report 2018, pp. 473-488)
83. Give the number of books/journals/periodicals that have been added to institution library during the last two years and their cost. (1) 2017 2018 Number Total cost Number Total cost i. Text books 3013 Rs. 15,45000 1952 Rs. 7,50,000 ii. Other books 20 Rs. 5,000 75 Rs. 8,000 iii. Journals/ 1 Gifted 2 Gifted periodicals Any others iv. dissertation 900 - 675 - v. reference books 10 Rs. 15,000 3 Rs. 4,000 (See Annex 18, Library Report 2018, pp. 473-488)
84. Mention (1) (i) Total carpet area of the institution library (in sq.mts.) [800 sq ft ] (0.25) (ii) Total number of departmental libraries [ 1 ] (0.25) (iii) Seating capacity of the Library [Normal seating= 170, blinds= 10 ] (0.25) (iv) Open student access to library [ Yes, partially ] (0.25) (See Annex 18, Library Report 2018, pp. 473-488)
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 46
85. Give the organizational structure of the library. (0.5) (i) Total number of staff (0.3) a. Professionals (List with qualifications) - 1 (Master in Library & Information Science, TU) b. Semi-professionals - 1 (3 months training) - 1 (1 month training) - 5 (7 days training) c. Others 10
(ii) Library advisory committee (0.2), Give details Chairperson - Campus Chief (Prof. Dr. Chandra Bahadur Thapa) Members - 8 Assistant Campus Chiefs Members - 2 Representatives from Faculty members Member - President of FSU or Student Representative Member Secretary – Chief Librarian (Kishor Subedi) (See Annex 18, Library Report 2018, pp. 473-488)
86. Staff development programs for library: (0.5) (i) Refresher/orientation courses attended (ii) Workshops/Seminars/Conferences attended (iii) Other special training programs attended
Response: The library of the campus in collaboration with Nepal National Library, Harihar Bhawan, Lalitpur organized the 7-day “Basic Library Management Training” on 1-7 Falgun 2074 BS. The main objective of the training was to deliver general library management knowledge to library staff, who have been working on community or public library of this area (Province 4). In this training, 5 library staff of this library and 17 library staff of other libraries were participated in the training. (See Annex 18, Library Report 2018, pp. 473-488)
87. Are the library functions automated? (0.5) Yes No If yes: Fully automated (0.5) Partially automated (0.25) Name the application software used : Koha (See Annex 18, Library Report 2018, pp. 473-488)
88. What is the percentage of library budget in relation to the total budget of the Institution? (0.5)
Response: The percentage of library budget of the total budget is 0.48% annually that excludes the infrastructure of the library. (See Annex 18, Library Report 2018, pp. 473-488) SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 47
89. Does the library provide the following services/facilities? (10 x 0.1 = 1) Circulation Services Maintenance services Reference/referral service Information display and notification services Photocopying and printing services User Orientation/Information Literacy Internet/ Computer Access Inter-Library Loan services Networking services Power Backup facility (See Annex 18, Library Report 2018, pp. 473-488)
90. Furnish details on the following (1; to be equally distributed) (i) Average number of books issued/returned per day.[Issued= 250; Returned= 200] (ii) Average no. of users visited / Documents consulted per month [ 700 ] (iii) Please furnish the information on no. of Log-ins in to the [ 550 ] E-Library Services/E- Documents delivered per month. (iv) Ratio of Library books to number of students enrolled [10.89 ] (See Annex 18, Library Report 2018, pp. 473-488)
CRITERION 6: STUDENT SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE (10 MARKS) 91. Furnish the following details: (0.25 x 4 = 1) Percentage of regular students appearing for the exam = 58.60% (See Annex 30, Data on Enrolment & Graduates, pp. 926-928) Drop out rate (drop out from the course) = 41.40% (See Annex 30, Data on Enrolment & Graduates, pp. 926-928) Progression to further study (Bachelors to Master, Master to Mphil/PhD): No record Prominent positions held by alumni 1) Rabindra Adhikari – Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation 2) Jagat Bahadur Biswokarma - Minister of Sports & Youth Affairs 3) Nar Devi Pun - Minister of Social Development (Province 4) 4) Sarubhakta Shrestha - Chancellor, Nepal Academy of Music & Drama
92. How many students have passed the following examinations in the last five years? (0.25 x 4 = 1) Nepal Civil Services Examinations Other employment related examinations International level entrance examination Others (please specify)
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 48
Response: There is no official record of the students who have passed the above examination in the last five years, but the campus will start recording this data in the near future. However, the percentage of successful graduates who have occupied such positions is mentioned in the tracer study 2016 and 2017. (See Annex 10, Tracer Study 2016, pp. 250-324; Annex 11, Tracer Study 2017, pp. 326- 393)
93. Does the institution publish its updated prospectus annually? (1) Yes (1) No (0) If yes, what are the contents of the prospectus? (attach a copy)
Response: Yes, the campus publishes its updated prospectus annually. The recent prospectus is for the academic year 2018-2019 which includes the governing body, campus chief’s message, about the campus, facilities & services, academic programs, research & publications, faculty & staff, international relations, PNC Alumni and students’ opinions. (See Annex 9, Prospectus 2018-19, pp. 237-248)
94. What kind of financial aids are available to students from the government, the institution and others? Give details. (0.5)
Response: The campus provides freeships, scholarships and other prizes from the government, and the institution itself. For instance, as per the TU rule, 1 boy and 1 girl get scholarships in each academic program. Altogether, 15% students are given freeships for each academic program at Bachelor’s level on merit-based list. For Master’s level, 10% students are given freeships for each subject at Master’s level based on merit list.
Recently, the Research Committee of the campus has given the student grants to 16 Bachelor’s and Master’s students to support their thesis writing and project work report writing. Each grantee student receives Rs. 3000 as financial support and after the completion of the works, such students also receive the completion certificates. (See Annex 16, Financial Report 2074/75 BS, pp. 433-466; Annex 20, Research Improvement Programs: Criteria & Procedures 2018, pp. 602-637)
95. Mention the number of students who have received financial aid during the last two years. (0.5) Financial aid 2016 2017 i. Merit scholarship 60 60 ii. Merit-cum-Means 10 10 iii Disabled 115 125 iv Freeship 441 524
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 49
(See Annex 19, Student Welfare and Consultancy Report 2018, pp. 490-600; Annex 16, Financial Report 2074/75 BS, pp. 433-466; Annex 7, Annual Report 2017, pp. 180-216)
96. Does the institution have an employment cell and a placement officer who offers career counseling to students? If yes, give details of the cell and its office. (0.25 x 2 = 0.5) i. Employment cell: Role: ii. Placement officer: Role:
Response: Yes, the campus has an employment cell and a placement officer who offers career counseling to the students. The job employment cell is kept under the Sports & Student Welfare Division through Student Counseling and Consultancy Services. The Chair of the division will look after these services to the students. The following will be the roles of Job Employment Cell and Placement Officer:
The Role of Job Employment Cell: The major role of the cell is to identify the employment providers, circulate the information about the vacancies to the students and keep the records of those who are employed.
The Role of Placement Officer: The role of the placement officer is to look after the job employment cell, informing about the job prospects to its graduates. (See Annex 19, Student Welfare and Consultancy Report 2018, pp. 490-600; Additional Support Documents [9. job placement, pp. 220-222])
97. Do teachers participate in academic and personal counseling? (0.5) Yes No If yes, give details as to how they are involved.
Response: Yes, the campus through its departments has instructed the teachers to participate in academic and personal counseling. This type of counseling is reflected in the forms of orientations given at the beginning of the new session, during the proposal and thesis writing, seminars/workshops on curriculum, and project works. (See Annex 19, Student Welfare and Consultancy Report 2018, pp. 490-600)
98. How many students were employed through placement service during the last year? (1) UG students PG students Research scholars i. Local firms/companies ii. International firms/companies iii. Government iv. Public (semi-government) sector v. Private sector SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 50
Response: There is no official data on the employment status of the graduates of the campus, but the Tracer Study Report- 2017 shows that about 28% students are employed during the last year. (See Annex 11, Tracer Study Report 2017, pp. 326-393)
99. Does the employment cell motivate the students to seek self-employment? (1) Yes No If yes, how many are self-employed (data may be limited to last 5 years)?
Response: Yes, the campus through the job employment unit (student counseling and consultancy services) encourages its students for self-employment. (See Annex 10, Tracer Study Report 2016, pp. 250-324; Additional Support Documents [9. job placement, pp. 220-222])
100. Does the institution have an Alumni Association? (0.5) Yes No If yes, indicate the activities of the Alumni Association. Response: Yes, the campus has an alumni association, which is named “PNC Alumni”. It was founded on 26 January 2018 by a group of enthusiastic ex-students of the institution. Its purpose is to foster, maintain and support a mutually beneficial relationship between the campus and its alumni. The executive committee that comprises of 11 members governs the organization by setting policy, providing guidance for the organization's programs and activities, and represents the interests of alumni to the campus.
Since its establishment, the PNC Alumni has been working in the development of the campus. For instance, on 6 March 2018, it organized the blood donation program that could collect 88 bags of blood. On 6 March 2018, it also organized the “Clean-up PNC” campaign to keep the institution clean and beautiful. Similarly, on 26 March 2018, in collaboration with the Biotechnology Society of Nepal, it jointly organized an interaction program on “Engaging Youths in Research and Development” in the campus. (See Annex 34, PNC Alumni, pp. 1029-1055 Annex 44, Others, pp. 1213-1214 [online links:
101. How the policies and criteria of admission are made clear to prospective students? (0.5)
Response: The campus makes its policies and criteria of admission clear to the prospective students through its website, prospectus, notices and advertisements on FM radios, newspapers, and televisions. The campus has also used social media such as Facebook to advertise its call for admission. (See Annex 31, Admission Procedures, pp. 930-937; Additional Support Documents [11. admission process, pp. 241-254]; Annex 44, Others, pp. 1213-1214 [online SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 51
advertisement:
102. State the admission policy of the institution with regard to international students. (0.5)
Response: The campus does not have any special admission policy for international students, but the campus does follow the admission criteria and procedures in consultation with the Registrar’s Office, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur. (See Annex 31, Admission Procedures, pp. 930-937; Additional Support Documents [11. admission process, pp. 241-254])
103. What are the support services given to international students? (0.5) International student service office Special accommodation Induction courses Socio-cultural activities Welfare program Policy clearance Visa Support
Response: The campus orients to the international students about the program, admission procedures the institution. (See Annex 31, Admission Procedures, pp. 930-937)
104. What are the recreational / leisure time facilities available to students? (1) Indoor games Outdoor games Nature Clubs Debate Clubs Student Magazines Cultural Programs Audio Video facilities Any others ------
Response: The students are encouraged to use the above recreational/ leisure time facilities available in the campus. (See Annex 9, Prospectus 2018-19, pp. 237-248; Annex 17, Infrastructure Report 2018, pp. 468-471)
CRITERION 7: INFORMATION SYSTEM (10 MARKS) 105. Is there any cell in the institution to analyze and record various academic data? (2) Yes (2) No (0) If yes, mention how does the cell work along with its compositions?
Response: Yes, the campus has formed the EMIS unit to analyze and record various academic data. The EMIS unit works together with other units such as academic audit unit, student counseling and consultancy services, public information unit, and job
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 52
employment and placement unit. The EMIS unit collects data derived from other sources and analyze them for academic and institutional development of the campus. (See Annex 6, EMIS Report 2016-17, pp. 119-178)
106. What are the areas on which such analysis is carried out? (1.5)
Response: The EMIS unit analyzes these data in the academic, administrative, financial and instructional areas for identifying the shortcomings of the campus and making plans for future development of the institution. (See Annex 6, EMIS Report 2016-17, pp. 119-178)
107. How these analyzed data are kept in the institution records? (1)
Response: In the recent past, the analyzed data were kept in the manual form only. But now the campus has maintained a database system using computers. So the analyzed data are kept in the centralized database management system of the campus for academic purposes. (See Annex 6, EMIS Report 2016-17, pp. 119-178)
108. Are these information open to the stakeholders? (1) Yes (1) No (0) If yes, explain how they are disclosed?
Response: Yes, the information obtained from various sources of the campus and maintained by the EMIS unit are open to its stakeholders. For instance, the EMIS unit publishes its annual report in the campus website which can be accessed by anybody, especially the stakeholders of the campus. In addition, the campus organizes interaction programs, meetings and gatherings to share the analyzed data with its stakeholders. (See Annex 6, EMIS Report 2016-17, pp. 119-178; Additional Support Documents [8. public information, pp. 204-219])
109. Are the methods of study and analysis also open to the stakeholders? (1) Yes (1) No (0)
Response: Yes, the methods of study and analysis are also open to the stakeholders of the institution. For instance, the enrollment of students, dropouts, examination appeared students, pass out students, students’ ethnicity, or students’ gender are available to all its stakeholders of the institution. (See Annex 6, EMIS Report 2016-17, pp. 119-178)
110. Is there any mechanism to receive comments or feedbacks on the published data? (1) Yes (1) No (0) If yes, explain how does it happen? SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 53
Response: Yes, the campus has formed the public information unit to receive comments or feedbacks on the published data. This is especially done in order to correct the shortcomings of the campus. First, these feedbacks are received through the meetings of departments, classrooms from students, and other interaction programs. Secondly, the campus has also kept complaint boxes at different places which are accessible to all its stakeholders. In this way also, the campus receives feedbacks on the published data. Thirdly, the campus has a provision to receive comments or feedback on the published data through its website. For instance, the website has a facility for the stakeholders of the campus to send their comments or feedbacks. (See Annex 6, EMIS Report 2016-17, pp. 119-178; Campus Website [feedback], https://pncampus.edu.np/feedback.php)
111. What are the impacts of such information system on decision making process? (1.5) Produce in brief the impact analysis.
Response: Truly speaking, the information system creates a positive impact on the decision making process of the campus. For instance, if the dropout students increase, the campus may decide to improve its evaluation system so that the students would be satisfied to continue their study. So the information system plays a vital role in the decision making process of the institution. (See Annex 6, EMIS Report 2016-17, pp. 119-178)
112. Give examples of quality improvements initiated due to the use of information system. (1)
Response: The use of information system can be effective to improve the quality education. For instance, if the stakeholders have the information about the importance of e-library facilities, regular research activities, infrastructure and other facilities that are provided by the institution, then they may pressurize the campus to improve its facilities so that the students can be benefitted from these facilities and have the quality education from the institution. (See Annex 6, EMIS Report 2016-17, pp. 119-178)
CRITERION 8: PUBLIC INFORMATION (10 MARKS) 113. Is there public information cell within the institution? (2) Yes (2) No (0) If yes, give details.
Response: Yes, there is. The campus has the public information unit within the institution which is headed by Mr. Prem Lal Baral who is also recently appointed as Information Officer by TU authority and even by the campus itself. The role of the unit is to
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 54
disseminate information to the stakeholders of the campus and to receive feedbacks to be used for academic and institutional improvements in the institution. (See Annex 4, Meeting Minutes, pp. 80-102; Additional Support Documents [2. minutes of executive committee & standing committee, pp. 51-84])
114. What are the areas of information published by the cell? (1) Academic (0.25) Administration (0.25) Financial (0.5) All (1.0)
Response: The public information unit provides information in different areas such as academic, administrative, financial, library, infrastructure, and extra-curricular aspects. In fact, this covers a wider area of the institution. (See Annex 32, Extension Programs, pp. 939-993; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 1, Issue 1, March-August 2018, pp. 218-235; Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 2, Sept. 2018- Feb. 2019, pp. 126-132; Annex 9, Prospectus 2018-19, pp. 237-248; Annex 7, Annual Report 2017, pp. 180-216)
115. Where are these information published? (1.5) Newspapers (0.5) Magazines (0.5) Institutional special magazine dedicated for this (0.5)
Response: Usually, the information is published on the annual basis, but the information also disseminated on daily basis such as if it comes through the campus website, and on half-yearly basis if it comes through the bulletin, it is disseminated in each six months. (See Annex 32, Extension Programs, pp. 939-993; Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 1, Issue 1, March-August 2018, pp. 218-235; Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 2, Sept. 2018- Feb. 2019, pp. 126-132; Annex 9, Prospectus 2018-19, pp. 237-248; Annex 7, Annual Report 2017, pp. 180-216)
116. How often are these information published? (1) Yearly (1) in 4 years (0) Response: Yes, the public information unit collects responses on the published information on the basis of questionnaires such as tracer study form for graduates, satisfaction survey form for stakeholders, or academic survey form for faculty members distributed to the stakeholders of the campus. Such responses are also collected from social networking sites such as emails, Facebook, etc. (See Annex 10, Tracer Study Report 2016, pp. 250-324; Annex 11, Tracery Study Report 2017, pp. 326-397; Annex 14, Stakeholders’ Satisfaction Study Report 2018, pp. 415-420)
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 55
117. Mention all such publications of last two years. (1)
Areas Year 1, place of publication Year 2, place of publication Bulletin 2016, Pokhara 2018, Pokhara 2018, Pokhara Prospectus 2016-17, Kathmandu 2018-19, Pokhara Annual Report 2016-17, Pokhara 2017, Pokhara Website 2016, online 2017, online
(See Prithvi Bulletin, Year 1, Issue 1, July-December 2016, pp. 219-224; Prithvi Bulletin, Year 2, Issue 1, Sept. 2017 - Feb. 2018, pp. 225-229; Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 1, March-August 2018, pp. 230-234; Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 2, Sept. 2018- Feb. 2019, pp. 126-132; Annex 9, Prospectus 2016-17, pp. 236; Annex 9, Prospectus 2018-19, pp. 237-242; Annex 7, Annual Report 2017, pp. 180-217; Annex 44, Online Links, p. 1214)
118. Does the cell also collect responses, if any, on the published information? (1) Yes (1) No (0) If yes, give details.
Response: Yes, it does. The cell collects responses through social networking such as emails, Facebooks, etc. and through complaints boxes placed at different locations of the campus. In addition, the responses are also collected through the questionnaires which are often distributed among the faculty and students. (See Annex 37, Stakeholders’ Feedback, 1082-1087; Annex 14, Stakeholders’ Satisfaction Report 2018, pp. 415-420; Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pncampus.edu.np/)
119. Is there any system to evaluate the impact of public information on quality improvements? (1) Yes (1) No (0) If yes, how these impacts are measured?
Response: Definitely, yes. The campus regularly evaluates the impact of public information on quality improvement. These impacts are measured through the analysis of responses derived from the stakeholders and the general public. The campus through its various units and committees frequently conducts surveys of its students, faculty members, non-teaching staff and stakeholders. Data obtained from these surveys are analyzed and reports are prepared to be submitted to the governing body of the campus. For instance, tracer studies, academic audit reports, stakeholder satisfaction reports, and other reports related to the quality improvements efforts are submitted to the executive committee of the campus and are discussed one by one and decisions are made for implementation of the suggestions made by the respondents.
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 56
(See Annex 8, Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 1, March-August 2018, pp. 218-235 [interaction on the semester system, p. 3]; Prithvi Bulletin, Year 3, Issue 2, Sept. 2018- Feb. 2019, pp. 126-132; Annex 9, Prospectus 2018-19, pp. 237-248 [what do students say, p. 11])
120. Mention some positive impacts made by the public information practice. (1.5)
Response: The public information practice made by the campus had some positive impacts on quality improvement of the institution. The following are some of them.
When B.Sc. CSIT program was first introduced in the campus, the public information unit had paid 10,000 rupees to Facebook to advertise its call for admission, there was a huge difference in the admission process. There were many students who were interested in the program. This was one of the positive impacts made by the public information practice.
The campus published its first full-fledged prospectus in 2016, which was very attractive and informative, the positive impact it made was the increase in the students’ enrolment in the following year. For instance, the data shows that the total number of students enrolled in the academic year 2016 was 8007, but the number of students increased in the academic year 2017 and the total number of students enrolled was 9480. This increment can be considered as the positive impact of the public information practice. (See Annex 9, Prospectus 2016-17, pp. 237-242; Annex 9, Prospectus 2018-19, pp. 243- 248; Annex 30, Admission Procedures, pp. 930-937 [facebook page screenshot for admission open for bsc csit program, p. 937])
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 57
PART III ANALYSIS OF CRITERION-WISE INPUTS
As Prithvi Narayan Campus continues to enjoy its strengths academically, administratively and financially, the campus has also become aware of its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and challenges. So in order to analyze its overall status of the campus, the self-study assessment team has adopted the use of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Challenges (SWOC) approach as a tool to remodel the higher education in the campus. A detailed SWOC analysis for the institution has been presented criterion-wise below, which would be a fruitful exercise for the campus to plan its course of action.
1) Policy and Procedures The campus is running under the Tribhuvan University Decentralization Regulations -2062 BS. Accordingly, the campus management committee is the governing body, which is responsible for setting the policies, regulating campus programs and activities. The committee comprises of the representatives of stakeholders: teachers, non-teaching staff, students, parents, local government, donors, campus administration and department heads. The campus chief chairs the committee and nominates a member secretary from the assistant campus chiefs. The executive committee headed by the campus chief runs the day-to-day functions of the campus that comprises of the representatives of teachers, assistant campus chiefs, and department heads.
The campus has formed a high level committee named “Standing Committee” that works for the overall internal quality monitoring and checks. The committee comprises of 10 members headed by the campus chief that include all assistant campus chiefs as members, representing each Faculty/Institute and all academic programs that are running in the morning, day and evening shifts. Besides running the classes for students, the members of the committee hold frequent meetings to monitor and control the quality education within the institution. Since the campus is one of the decentralized constituent campuses of Tribhuvan University that has enjoyed certain freedom to manage and run the institution, the campus has specified the job responsibilities of departments, units and individuals. The campus is mostly guided by its central office in Kirtipur through the rules and regulations of the university. Apart from being dependent on the central office of the university, the campus management committee and executive committee can have the right to formulate certain rules and regulations to meet the local needs of the institution. So these committees can also specify the job responsibilities of departments, units and individuals besides the specifications mentioned in the university rules and regulations. Yes, the campus has the specified responsibilities that are mentioned in the minute book.
Effective efforts are also undertaken for resource mobilization. The main sources of grants are the Nepal Government, Tribhuvan University and the UGC. The students’ fees contribute to resource mobilization. At the beginning of each financial year, the finance committee meets for SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 58 budget allocation under different heads. The budget is sent for approval to the university authorities and executive council. Periodic review of the budget expenses is made for optimal utilization. External audit is done in every financial year. Thus, the available resource is optimally allocated and utilized through efficient financial resource management. The dynamic leadership of the campus chief, the active participation of the staff, both teaching and non- teaching, in academics and administration together with effective internal coordination and monitoring by the university and UGC make it possible for the campus to achieve its goals.
All administrative bodies have the faculty representation. Thus academic and administrative planning in the institution is well coordinated. At the beginning of the academic year, various departments and the members of administration scrutinize the work load and assess the need for staff recruitment and other infrastructural requirements. This is further scrutinized by assistant campus chiefs. New recruitments are done through a selection process satisfying the government criteria for both substantive posts and school created posts.
The institution has a self-appraisal method to evaluate the performance of the faculty in teaching, research and extension programs. Skill up-gradation and training programs are conducted for the non-teaching staff members when required. The campus constantly organizes orientation and faculty development programs. The faculty is encouraged for research and project work leading to their academic development. Thus the management of human resource is meticulously planned and executed.
SWOC Analysis: Policy and Procedures Strengths Weaknesses Constituent campus of Tribhuvan Lack of autonomy in formulation of its University policies and strategy as the campus has to get Visionary leadership university approval in all major activities. Well laid out participative Reluctance in accepting leadership management system Bureaucratic structure of the university Well laid out plans and policies Restricted autonomy to the campus Vision to convert as a deemed by the university university Local level academic rules and regulations 5 Years Strategic Plan No independent policies to convert adjunct Academic audit and annual audit faculty to full time basis (monthly salary provision basis) Promotion of a transparent and Lack of separate human resource planning participatory governance structure cell Easy availability of the administrators to the students Cohesive environment in the campus Active involvement of the alumni SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 59
Opportunities Challenges To meticulously plan the human Employment of prompt feedback mechanism resources plan for the execution of in various aspects of conducting opportunities administrative acts To encourage more faculty members Well defined job description and job to participate in making the strategic specification plan Prioritization of work and work schedule To create opportunities for more Rules about full time faculty and staff collaborations with other Overcome political influences in the campus universities and institutions at the and university national and international levels Financial resources needed to convert it into To create opportunities to further university status open up participative management in Further extension of collaboration at national governance and leadership and international levels to improve the overall To invite advisory participation of quality of education the stakeholders To identify motivators who will involve the To hire experts in making goals and staff more in institutional activities, research objectives of the institution and responsibility Multidisciplinary approach adopted Lack of focus towards studies amongst by the government. students due to external distraction.
2) Curricular Aspects The campus being a constituent campus of Tribhuvan University, it adapts the syllabi prescribed by the university. However, the campus plans innovative and creative methods for delivery of the curriculum. Faculty members are encouraged to attend the faculty development programs organized by the campus. They are deputed to attend workshops conducted for designing the curriculum. To fill the identified gaps in curricula, the value-added courses are planned. The academic calendar issued by the university is followed for the planning and implementation of the action plan. However, the academic calendar is also prepared by the campus in accordance to the university academic calendar as well as the calendar prescribed by the examination controller’s office of Tribhuvan University. The syllabus is completed as per the university and students’ expectations. The campus obtains feedback from various stakeholders which is studied and analyzed in the direction of content, syllabus design, faculty involvement, quality of teaching and conveyed to the concern faculty for further necessary action.
The campus is flexible enough to offer its students all benefits. For instance, the campus runs classes in the morning, day, and evening shifts as per the convenience of the students. The students can choose shifts and even can transfer from one subject to another. The campus has also offered elective subjects to choose from. For instance, a Master’s student can opt for thesis
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 60 writing, but he or she cannot complete it due to his or her time or other reasons, he or she can change the elective subject and can opt for paper.
The campus has made a number of efforts to promote the overall personality of its students such as capacity to learn, communication skills, numerical skills, the use of information technology and working independently or in a team. First, the teachers provide students with assignments so that the students can improve their learning ability. The teachers also regularly organize seminar presentations for students, using technologies so that the students can improve their communication and numerical skills as well as they would be familiar with the use of technology in the teaching learning process. Most importantly, the students need to learn skills to work independently and in a team so that they can be able to adjust to real life after their graduating from the institution.
The campus offers additional focused programs and electives to its students depending on the nature of the academic programs. For instance, the university courses are designed as per the need of the international market. So each course for the academic programs lists a number of electives in order to meet the challenges of the 21st century. Concerning the additional focused programs, the campus has considered new programs such as B.Sc. CSIT, BALLB, BPA and MPA programs because they promote the mission of the institution by fulfilling the high demands of job markets. So the campus has started offering these programs recently. There are a few faculty members of the campus who have contributed to the curriculum design of the university
The courses are developed keeping in mind the Nepali business and societal requirements and the feedback from the stakeholders. Initially the proposed curriculum is developed by the faculties of the individual departments by taking into consideration the stated objectives of the courses and its basic academic requirements. The CDC also takes feedback from the subject committee, academic council, faculties, students and a suggestion box installed at the campus office. To assess the outcome of the stated objectives of the curriculum, the campus conducts unit tests, selection tests and collects informal assessments/observations from the faculties and students from time to time.
SWOC Analysis: Curricular Aspects Strengths Weaknesses Course designed according to the need Periodic revision of the curriculum by the of the students university Multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary Same nature of programs with different approach of curriculum and course status (e.g. BBA and BBS) design Non-reflective curriculum as per the ICT enabled / smart in some classrooms business changes and developments in the Academic extension programs nation Academic collaboration and exchanges Some bachelor level programs in the SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 61
Practical learning through internship annual system programs No autonomy in designing the curriculum Syllabus fully implement through field and courses work visit, summer project report, seminar based work plan Well defined work plan for curriculum implementation in some department and programs Opportunities Challenges M.Phil and doctoral programs of study Delivery of quality service and is imperative in order to properly utilize maintenance of the standard set in view of the teaching and research facility of the increasing number of students capable faculty Work plan to be implemented in all the Further update of syllabus to meet more programs modern needs of students Time and stress management Upgrading library resources to meet Ensuring optimum utilization of existing new academic expansions facilities (including ICT facilities) Qualitative and integrative developments as per the curriculum requirement More and active participation of campus faculty members in CDC
3. Teaching-Learning and Evaluation System The admissions in various programs offered by the campus has been maintained because of committed efforts of institute authorities to provide quality management education, excellent academics, good governance, excellent infrastructure and good track record of placement. The student’s needs are catered by the campus at every step during their graduation period and are fulfilled through remedial, add-on, enrichment, co-curricular and extra-curricular activities. Extra lectures are conducted for the identified subjects, which are difficult to the students. The campus identifies the advanced learners who are exceptionally gifted in academics and are mentored by the departmental as well as institutional teams for shaping their career.
The academic calendar is prepared which outlines semester schedules, various academic related activities. Some teachers prepare subject files related to their subjects before the commencement of the session. The campus believes that the lecture method still dominates the classrooms, but things have changed since the institution has started working on the QAA processing. The campus has now realized that the teachers should be encouraged to use other teaching methods, especially using technologies and newer methods that are learner-oriented such as using multimedia and social media, team teaching, group discussion, seminar presentation, demonstration, field visits and so on. The faculty members are encouraged to participate in training programs/ workshops/ seminars/ conferences / FDPs to update/ develop
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 62 their skills. Faculties are also motivated to undertake research work and higher studies (Ph.D.) through the leave provision.
The campus has adopted both annual and semester system for its various courses of study. Since the academic programs in the annual system admit relatively more students than the semester system. So the applicants for the programs in the annual system are evaluated on the basis of their academic records only. But the applicants for all programs in the semester system are evaluated on the basis of academic records, written entrance tests and personal interviews.
After new intake students get admitted into the academic programs, they are given orientation programs on the nature, objectives and contents of the courses as well as academic programs. Even at the time of admission, the students are given counseling individually regarding the scope of the course as per their academic record and background. Usually, the elective courses are offered in the second year or semester onwards, so the students are given advice during their classes. Overall, the student counseling and consultancy services under the Sports & Student Welfare Division looks after the case of assessing the students’ needs and aptitudes for the selections of courses.
The campus monitors the overall performance of its students periodically. The monitoring is done institutionally by the heads of each department and by the standing committee members through the concerned assistant campus chiefs and program coordinator. It is also done individually by the course instructor (teacher) of each course. The individual teachers also keep their students’ portfolio and periodically conduct skill tests orally and in writing. Similarly, the department and the campus also organize extra-curricular activities such as sports, quiz tests, debates, cultural programs, etc. in order to improve the overall performance of the students.
The campus has also started establishing national and international linkages for teaching and research. Recently, the campus and Hefei University, China have signed the agreement for academic exchange and international cooperation. Similarly, the campus has also made an agreement to extend relations with Wakkanai Hakusei Gokuin University in Japan through signing MoU. The collaboration between the campus and Muroran Institute of Technology in Japan is in the process of signing the agreement. This linkage will enhance teaching-learning environment in the campus.
The campus has a mechanism to evaluate the students’ institutional experience while in the campus. The feedback obtained from the students can be used in the future plan of the campus. Recently, the campus has conducted a tracer study of its graduates for the academic year of 2016 and 2017. The study revealed that the campus needs to increase its facilities for its students. The students share the prepared PPT and notes among other students. This practice helps the students to better understand the topics by themselves and improves self learning ability and teamwork.
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 63
SWOC Analysis: Teaching-Learning and Evaluation System Strengths Weaknesses Quality of faculty members Non-optimal utilization of ICT Commitment of the faculty (continuous facilities research, study and preparation for teaching, No alternative internet facility mentoring of students and remedial and Time taken for publication of tutorial assistance) results by the university Experience of the faculty members Propensity of faculty members to Innovative teaching learning pedagogy use conventional teaching International recognized grading system pedagogies Personal attention for weak students and advanced learners beyond routine contact hours Student counseling though the student welfare division Online access to e-journals and databases Mentoring, remedial and tutorial classes Relatively average student-teacher ratio Regional library Opportunities Challenges To improve the student-teacher ratio in some Continuing to cater to the needs of faculty students with same degree of New pedagogical approach perseverance and commitment Students and teacher exchange programs Room for increasing readiness and ability to innovate in classroom teaching methods
4. Research, Consultancy and Extension Prithvi Narayan Campus has been providing opportunities to its faculty members and students to carry out research activities. Both young faculty members and students in the campus are encouraged to take advantage of a wide range of research opportunities. Each department in the campus provides support to students, engaging in Master’s Level research and provides orientations on how to conduct research and write reports. The students have the opportunity to work alongside experienced faculty members in a variety of settings. Together, they work to find solutions to society's most pressing problems.
In the campus, teaching learning has continuously been substantiated with some research funding sources such as Building Stronger Universities – Platform for Stability, Democracy and Rights (BSU – PSDR), Social Inclusion Research Centre (SIRC) and University Grants Commission (UGC) in Kathmandu. Under these research activities, many of the faculty members and students have been awarded with research fellowships and grants.
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 64
The campus has established a centre for research activities within the campus. Research Management Cell is a centre under the Research Committee of the campus. It was established in 2070 BS under the funding of University Grants Commission (UGC), Nepal. The research committee in the campus is committed to excellence in research, supporting mini research projects which are available to young 15 faculty members annually. Many of faculty members receive research funding from the committee and upon completion of the research, findings are published in its journal. This allows for the undertaking of competitive research and research training at the campus.
The research committee often conducts seminars/ workshops for the faculty members and students to provide in depth knowledge and skill in the areas of research. Currently, the committee has a separate well-furnished office and a seminar hall in the Science Laboratory Building. It possesses an office at the corner of the hall with six computers, and a printer (multi-functional). This committee was established as a centre to serve the faculty members and students to enhance their academic and research capabilities and to provide resources for conducting research activities. In addition, the committee coordinates, supervises and evaluates research activities of the faculty members and students.
It is equally important for the researchers that the findings of their research should be disseminated more widely to the public in order to bring changes in the society. The research committee publishes Prithvi, which is a multi-disciplinary research journal regularly and incorporates the research papers produced through research projects conducted by research grantees in collaboration with the cell. Almost all departments of the campus have been publishing research journals in their area of studies. Besides, some departments have also been publishing magazines and newsletters. The committee also publishes the biannual Prithvi Bulletin covering all the activities of the campus. These publications play a significant role in enhancing the teaching learning and research environment in the campus.
The research journals are published on the biannual and annual basis, and many of them are published both in print and online. In line with its commitment to economic, social and environmental sustainability, the campus is minimizing the content of its print publications, and enhancing its website by providing PDF versions online of its printed publications. Apart from research journals published by various departments and associations in the campus, there are other publications such as magazines and bulletins. For instance, Department of English publishes a magazine and a bulletin. Similarly, TU Employee’s Association, Prithvi Narayan Campus Unit publishes Smarika (Souvenir) by TUEA and Free Student's Union, Prithvi Narayan Campus Unit publishes souvenir named Machhapuchhre.
The campus has identified thrust areas of research, faculty members are focusing on the undergraduate and postgraduate projects in the thrust areas, wherever possible experts from reputed institutions and industries are invited to improve quality of projects. To grasp the relevance of boundary, sustained efforts are made in interdisciplinary projects, undergraduate SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 65 and postgraduate projects of inter-disciplinary nature are offered by departments during dissertation writing.
Both postgraduate and undergraduate students participate in research programs organized by various universities, research institutes and organizations. Grant is also available for thesis and report writing support to postgraduate and undergraduate students.
The campus has assigned responsibility to conduct consultancy and extension activities. The students have organized different programs through these measures like blood donation, cleaning and awareness programs, disaster relief programs, etc.
SWOC Analysis: Research, Consultancy and Extension Strengths Weaknesses Experienced faculty for conducting research Involvement of both teachers and work students in research could not be Good coordination between teacher – enhanced simultaneously laboratory staff- students Lack of action and policy based Many faculty members have doctoral research research experience both in Nepal and abroad – hence Bureaucratic hurdle for grant teaching / research standards are very high allocation Undergraduate and postgraduate curriculum Less number of research by adjunct oriented towards research faculty Research grant for both students and teachers Establishment of Research Management Cell Research committee in each department and program E-resources in library for conducting research work Utilize fund of research from external agencies Regular seminar and workshop on research methodology Creation of consultancy and extension unit Opportunities Challenges To expand research activities in coming years To attract even better quality Students’ participation in more inter- faculties disciplinary programs and access to better Tie-ups for collaborative research exposure to research problems and with industries and foundations. methodology To attract funds from UGC, Database analysis training for students NGO/INGO’s and international Students desire to continue contributing funding agencies towards the scientific community and Enhance capabilities to conduct SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 66
industries policy level research Exposure of students to research problems To expand the work of consultancy and methodology through project work and and extension activities publication of departmental magazines
5. Infrastructure and Learning Resources The institution lays emphasis on providing improved facilities and basic comforts to students and teachers to feel them convenient to pursue their task well. Keeping in mind the requirement of new academic initiatives taken, in the beginning of new session and as and when needed local management committee meetings including management authority and members, executive committee and representative teachers are organized to discuss infrastructural needs, their advancements, upgrade, expanding courses, requirements, emerging trends, budgetary provision, etc. and policies are framed and decisions are taken accordingly for their implementation. The campus also revamps the policies, to meet the current needs keeping in mind the vision and mission of the institution. It offers its helping hand whenever infrastructural change is required and also fulfills the norms of affiliating university and state government.
The campus has sufficient lecture rooms, laboratories, common rooms, and independent computer labs. The campus has a comprehensive master plan that explains the existing buildings and the projected expansion in the future. The master plan clearly envisioned the expansion of the present institution into the university. The new academic and residential buildings will be constructed as per the need for the university. The roads will be widened and the green space will be expanded. The plan has also envisioned the addition of new academic programs like B.Sc. in Agriculture & Animal Sciences.
The campus has Internet facility in various departments and programs. There is a provision of free WiFi zone. Regional library has good ambience with an adequate seating capacity. It has large number of books and subscriptions of National and International journals. The computer laboratories are well equipped with latest high end desktops. Teaching-learning is being enhanced by implementing video lectures and by arranging workshops, seminars. There is a generator power backup availability.
The campus has the hostel facilities available to the students who come from the outside of the valley. There are four student hostels in different locations within the premises of the institution, which are categorized as 2 girl’s hostels with a capacity of 104 students, 1 boy’s hostel for science students with a capacity of 46 students and 1 boy’s hostel for general subject students which is under maintenance. These hostels are managed by the general administration and each hostel has a hostel warden appointed by the institution.
The construction and procurement committee assigned by the institution has the major responsibilities to monitor and record all equipments, and perform the regular maintenance of SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 67 its infrastructure. The institution has maintained the annual budget in its expenditure. The campus runs its classes in three shifts: in the morning, day and evening so that the maximum students can be benefitted from its infrastructure facilities. The campus has also constructed more than 50 business complex shutters for business purposes from which the campus collects rents from the tenants that generates some income for the institution. The campus has both indoor and outdoor space for sports that are available for its students and teachers. They include football, basketball, volleyball, cricket, table tennis, badminton, judo and athletics. The campus often organizes sports competitions for its teachers and students.
The campus provides the facilities of drinking water and toilets for its teachers, students, non- teaching staff and visitors. The toilets are available in different locations easily accessible to males and females separately. There are two types of toilets: one type of toilets is public for all and available for 24 hours, but the another type is those toilets which are not open for the public and located inside the buildings. However, more effort is needed to properly clean and maintain toilets. The campus has again two types of water supply: one type is the main water supply provided by the municipality and another type is the deep boring water supply managed by the campus itself. The students, teachers and non-teaching staff are provided with clean drinking water while they are in the campus. Effort is also needed for the regularity of water supply.
The Western Regional Library, located within the premises of the campus, provides a wide range of congenial study environment for 250 readers with a spacious well-furnished reading room. It provides email and internet facilities to the readers since 2000. The library's collections encompass a rich and varied universe of printed volumes, digital resources, maps, media and archival materials. The library holds about 178,814 books including textbooks and reference books, 4,150 research reports (dissertations), subscribes 40 national and international journals and more than 5 national daily newspapers. The library's digital collection continues to grow at a rapid pace. The library has the following general and special collections: Nepal collection, dissertation collection, ICRC collection and ICIMOD collection.
SWOC Analysis: Infrastructure and Learning Resources Strengths Weaknesses Excellent library infrastructure Stakeholders commitment to maintain ICT facilities for teaching-learning and upgrade infrastructure Better opportunities for research and Administrative and administrative block facilities to contribute to the scientific renovation community. Less number of classroom for some Regular maintenance, upkeep and programs upgrading of facilities No separate faculty room Hostel facilities Adequate space and infrastructure for sports and entertainment SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 68
Well-equipped science lab Maintenance of greenery space Parking facility for vehicles Opportunities Challenges Tie-up with local bodies for To ensure quality research facilities for infrastructure expansion all professors and students To support the new kind of academic Infrastructural requirements are programs and extensions continuously growing and require Optimum utilization of available space continuous updating As a constituent campus, it has possibility to generate resources for expansion of its physical infrastructure
6. Student Support and Guidance The campus publishes its updated prospectus annually and provides all the information regarding admission, various programs, student facilities and placement information, etc. There are students from various backgrounds. Thus to meet the requirements of these students, the campus with its team initiates several efforts and strives hard to facilitate the progress of the students, may it be academic, may it be co-curricular or may be extra-curricular activities. There is freeship facility to the students with partial fee wave for students. Around 15 % of the total students are enjoying such facility. The students receive financial assistance especially for need based scholarship for economically weaker students and marginalized community. There is also a provision of scholarship on merit basis.
The campus has an employment unit and a placement officer who offers career counseling to the students. The job employment unit is kept under the Sports & Student Welfare Division through Student Counseling and Consultancy Services. The chairperson of the division looks after these services to the students. The major role of the unit is to identify the employment providers, circulate the information about the vacancies to the students and keep the records of those who are employed. The role of the placement officer is to look after the job employment cell, informing about the job prospects to its graduates.
The campus through its departments has instructed the teachers to participate in academic and personal counseling. This type of counseling is reflected in the forms of orientations given at the beginning of the new session, during the proposal and thesis writing, seminars/workshops on curriculum, and project works. The campus through the job employment unit (student counseling and consultancy services) encourages its students for self-employment. Similarly, the BBA students are encouraged to prepare the business development plan so that their entrepreneurship skills are enhanced.
The campus has an alumni association, which is named “PNC Alumni”. It was founded on 26 January 2018 by a group of enthusiastic ex-students of the institution. Its purpose is to foster, SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 69 maintain and support a mutually beneficial relationship between the campus and its alumni. The executive committee that comprises of 11 members that governs the organization by setting policy, providing guidance for the organization's programs and activities, and represents the interests of alumni to the campus. Since its establishment, the PNC Alumni has been working in the development of the campus. For instance, on 6 March 2018, it organized the blood donation program that could collect 88 bags of blood. Similarly, “Clean-Up PNC” campaign was launched to keep the institution clean and beautiful. Likewise, on 26 March 2018, in collaboration with the Biotechnology Society of Nepal, it jointly organized an interaction program on “Engaging Youths in Research and Development” in the campus.
In addition, the campus makes its policies and criteria of admission clear to the prospective students through its website, prospectus, notices and advertisements on FM radios, newspapers, and televisions. The campus has also used social media such as Facebook to advertise its call for admission.
SWOC Analysis: Student Support and Guidance Strengths Weaknesses Individual attention for weak students Effective bridging initiative and advanced learners beyond routine Less utilization of available space contact hours Weak pass percentage ratio in some Student counseling programs Employment cell Effective mentoring to individual students Business development plan Scholarship and freeship provision Committed PNC Alumni Opportunities Challenges To create more scope for job placement To handle students from diverse To improve common room for students backgrounds with greater sensitivity Auditorium management To maintain the enrollment of students Further enhancement of competency To increase the pass percentage ratio development programs through co- Expand health insurance for students curricular activities
7. Information System The campus has formed the EMIS team to analyze and record various academic data. The EMIS team works together with other teams such as academic audit team, student counseling and consultancy services, public information unit, and job employment and placement unit. The EMIS team collects data derived from other sources and analyzes them for academic and institutional development of the campus. The EMIS team analyzes these data in the academic,
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 70 administrative, financial and instructional areas for identifying the shortcomings of the campus and making plans for future development of the institution.
The methods of study and analysis are also open to the stakeholders of the institution. For instance, the enrollment of students, dropouts, examination appeared students, pass out students, students’ gender are available to all its stakeholders of the institution. The EMIS report is available in the website to the stakeholders. There is also a provision to receive feedback through website via Google forms.
The campus has formed the public information unit to receive comments or feedbacks on the published data. This is especially done in order to correct the shortcomings of the campus. First, these feedbacks are received through the meetings of departments, classrooms from students, and other interaction programs. Secondly, the campus has also kept complaint boxes at different places which are accessible to all its stakeholders. In this way also, the campus receives feedbacks on the published data. Database software has also been installed in each administrative block to record student enrollment, fee payment, teaching and non-teaching faculty data, etc.
SWOC Analysis: Information System Strengths Weaknesses Well equipped EMIS team Insufficient IT infrastructures Actively functioning information unit Unavailability of smart classes Information based policy formulation Budget constraints on information Faculties and willingness and technology development acceptance towards IT applications Dissemination of academic information Opportunities Challenges To develop national and international Trend of ICT based teaching pedagogy networks for technological development To convert database to web based Creating enhanced learning experience software and academic quality through ICT Financing ICT initiatives Knowledge management opportunities
8. Public Information The campus emphasizes in the accountability and transparency of the activities inside the institution. The campus authorities are in constant dialogue with all the stakeholders for precise planning and strategic direction that is needs to purse. The campus has the public information unit within the institution which is headed by Mr. Prem Lal Baral who is also recently appointed as Information Officer by the university. The role of the unit is to disseminate information to the stakeholders of the campus and to receive feedbacks to be used for academic and institutional improvements in the institution. The public information unit provides information in different areas such as academic, administrative, financial, library, SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 71 infrastructure, and extra-curricular aspects. In fact, this covers a wider area of the institution. Such information are accessible through annual report, EMIS report and prospectus via printed and online source.
The campus published its first full-fledged prospectus in 2016, which was attractive and informative, the positive impact it made was the increase in the students’ enrolment in the following year. For instance, the data shows that the total number of students enrolled in the academic year 2016 was 8007, but the number of students increased in the academic year 2017 and the total number of students enrolled was 9480. This increment can be considered the positive impact of the public information practice.
SWOC Analysis: Public Information Strengths Weaknesses Public information unit Low level of oral dissemination of Regular publication of academic information documents in printed and online form Low level of awareness about need and Frequently updated information significance of public information User-friendly website disclosure Opportunities Challenges Build sound stakeholder relationship via Creating conducive environment for timely disclosure of public information public information disclosure Implementation of public response Creating trained manpower for public Application software available in the information management market Training and development initiative to teachers’ and administrative staffs To include more features in the software
The End
SSR of Prithvi Narayan Campus 72