In Nepal, students aspiring to study abroad are required to obtain a mandatory permit known as the No Objection Letter (NOC) from the Ministry of Education. This permit is essential for students to convert their currency for tuition fees and proceed to their intended overseas universities. However, recent changes to the Education Act, 2016 have limited the issuance of NOCs to students pursuing specific levels and courses and those studying in educational institutions listed on the ministry’s roster. This change has caused bewilderment and distress among students and parents.
Contradicts with the fundamental rights
The right to education is a fundamental right for every student, and restricting the issuance of NOCs to specific levels and courses that conform to their interests, academic level, language proficiency, financial status, and career objectives is a transgression of this right. The recent alterations to the NOC rules have limited students’ choices and opportunities, causing uncertainty and anxiety among those seeking to pursue education abroad.
Admission Prerequisites for Specific Programs
Universities and colleges worldwide have admission prerequisites for specific programs, and students must meet these criteria to enroll in their preferred university and program. Satisfying language and foundational prerequisites is a pivotal component of higher education that the government of Nepal ought to consider when granting the NOC for studying abroad.
Importance of Foundational and Pathway Programs
Many students aspire to study a specific program but may encounter difficulties due to lower grades, poor English, and lack of foundational strength. English language courses and diplomas are propitious pathway programs that enhance students’ levels, enable them to pursue their preferred program of interest, and accomplish their aspirations. The government of Nepal ought not to disregard the foundational and pathway programs when issuing NOCs for studying abroad.
Impediments to Affordable Courses
The recent changes in the NOC rules for studying abroad impede students from pursuing affordable courses such as diplomas and vocational programs that expose them to practical learning and prepare them for career development. This verdict constitutes discrimination against students from lower-income backgrounds and results in a postponement of their career development.
Practical Exposure and Employment Prospects
In contrast to Nepal, overseas colleges and universities offer students practical exposure and employment prospects as they study and even after completing their studies. These opportunities enable them to acquire international degrees and earn some money for the future, which is advantageous given the high unemployment rate in Nepal. Therefore, the government of Nepal should reconsider its verdict regarding the NOC for studying abroad, which not only impedes students from pursuing their desired programs but also affects their economic prospects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NOC for studying abroad?
The No Objection Certificate (NOC) is a mandatory permit that Nepalese students must acquire from the Ministry of Education to pursue higher education abroad. This permit allows students to convert their currency for tuition fees and proceed to their intended overseas universities.
Who is affected by the recent changes in the NOC rules for studying abroad in Nepal?
The recent changes in the NOC rules for studying abroad in Nepal affect students pursuing diplomas and language courses, as well as those studying in educational institutions not listed on the Ministry of Education’s roster. These changes have caused bewilderment and distress among both students and parents.
Why is it essential to consider foundational and pathway programs when granting NOCs for studying abroad?
Foundational and pathway programs such as language courses and diplomas are essential components of higher education. They enhance students’ levels, enable them to pursue their preferred program of interest, and accomplish their aspirations. Therefore, it is crucial to consider these programs when granting NOCs for studying abroad.
How do the recent changes in the NOC rules for studying abroad impact students from lower-income backgrounds?
The recent changes in the NOC rules for studying abroad in Nepal impede students from pursuing affordable and undemanding courses such as diplomas and vocational programs that expose them to practical learning and prepare them for career development. This verdict constitutes discrimination against students from lower-income backgrounds and results in a postponement of their career development.
Why is it advantageous for Nepalese students to study abroad?
Overseas colleges and universities offer students practical exposure and employment prospects as they study and even after completing their studies. These opportunities enable them to acquire international degrees and earn some money for the future, which is advantageous given the high unemployment rate in Nepal. Therefore, studying abroad is an excellent opportunity for Nepalese students to enhance their academic and economic prospects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the recent changes to the NOC rules for studying abroad in Nepal have caused distress and bewilderment among students and parents. The government of Nepal ought to reconsider its decision and ensure that the NOC for studying abroad is attainable to all students, irrespective of their economic background and interests. This will not only benefit the students but also contribute to the development of the country.