Locals urge Far-western province to pass Tikapur science and technology university act

Tikapur: Residents of Tikapur have called on the Far Western Province government to promptly enact the Tikapur Science and Technology University Act.

The demand was made during an all-party meeting held in Tikapur Municipality on Friday. The provincial government had announced the establishment of a Science and Technology University in Tikapur in the fiscal year 2081/82 budget, allocating Rs. 50 million that year and Rs. 55 million in the current fiscal year.

“There is talk of introducing the act in every session of the Provincial Assembly, but it has yet to be passed,” said Engineer Rabindra Bista, Municipal President of the Rastriya Swatantra Party. He added that all parties have agreed to provide the necessary land and convert a suitable school into the university once the act is enacted. CPN (UML) Municipal President Laxman Thapa said he has already met with stakeholders to request the act’s passage.

Former Tikapur Mayor Tapendra Bahadur Rawal emphasized that Tikapur, as an educational hub with sufficient land and resources, is ready for a university. “The Chief Minister has a positive attitude, and this session should finalize the act,” he said.

Constituent Assembly member Harilal Gyawali urged the Provincial Assembly to expedite the process, noting that all parties support establishing the university in Tikapur. Acting Mayor Ram Bahadur Nagarji welcomed the initiative, stating it meets the growing demand for technical education.

Professor Dr. Bishnu Vilas Adhikari, Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences at Sudurpaschim University, recommended that the new university offer distinct programs, considering that Nepal already has 19 universities.

Since the Far Western Province government announced its intention to establish a university in the 2075/76 policy and program, two study committees were formed to identify suitable locations. Committee member Dr. Chakra Prasad Adhikari confirmed that both committees recommended Tikapur as an ideal site. Young Ranga Prasad Adhikari stressed that the provincial government and assembly should clarify the delay in passing the act despite policy announcements, studies, and budget allocations.