Khwopa College of Engineering (KhCE) and Khwopa Engineering College (KhEC) held a greeting exchange program to celebrate Vijaya Dashami, Deepawali, and Chhath festivals on 22nd Ashoj 2081. The event was attended by the Honorable Prem Suwal, Secretary of the Nepal Workers and Peasants' Party (NWPP), and a Member of Parliament, as the chief guest.

In his address, MP Prem Suwal shared profound insights into Nepal's political and socio-economic situation. He remarked, "Political change may take an era. In China, it has been 75 years since the revolution, and while this may be a fleeting moment in humankind's history, it holds immense significance in China’s development."

Touching on Nepal’s infrastructure, he criticized the current state of roads and bridges, pointing out that "despite claims of development, roads and bridges were washed away this year due to technical errors and weak soil conditions in the Kathmandu Valley." He suggested that inadequate technical oversight and improper soil management have led to these recurring issues.

MP Suwal also expressed concerns about Nepal’s brain drain, stating that the government’s practice of sending doctors, engineers, agricultural scientists, and other professionals abroad is more harmful than a bomb blast to the country’s future. He warned that Nepal could face similar social challenges as Japan, where by 2050, 10% of people over the age of 65 will have no relatives, hinting at the potential for a similar demographic crisis in Nepal.

He further revealed the government's recent actions regarding Nepal's international debts. "The government pleaded China to change the loan to donations for 27 billion rupees incurred for the construction of Pokhara International Airport, while not speaking a word for the debt owed to the World Bank, IMF, and ADB." He noted these financial maneuvers illustrate Nepal's delicate economic situation.

Reflecting on Nepal's past political struggles, MP Suwal recounted historical events such as the Naxalite movement in India and the Jhapa Rebellion in Nepal, both of which ended in sacrifice due to a lack of proper organization and public awareness. He also mentioned the attempted assassination of Chairman Narayan Man Bijukchen in 2035 B.S., as well as conspiracy and false charges against him in 2045 B.S. He emphasized that these events demonstrate the enduring influence of imperialists and expansionists in the region.

"Even today, the country remains in a state of chaos," he said, "If the intellectuals are not vigilant, we risk losing our country’s sovereignty."

The program, filled with cultural significance, fostered dialogue on both the nation’s cultural celebrations and the political realities it faces. Participants left with a renewed sense of awareness regarding the country’s challenges and the importance of collective responsibility to safeguard Nepal’s future.

Mayor of Bhaktapur Municipality and Chairman of the College Management Committee, Mr. Sunil Prajapati, expressed concerns over the government's lack of seriousness in disaster management. He pointed out that technical errors, combined with the crusher industry and contractors' faults, have led to significant financial losses during floods. Mr. Prajapati also called for constitutional amendments to serve the public interest, stating, "Constitutional amendments should not be for party or personal interests but for the benefit of the people."

He further highlighted the reluctance of relevant authorities to allocate 108 ropani of land in Bhaktapur Ward No. 1 for the establishment of Khwopa University. He emphasized that commercialization in education should be halted and urged for the introduction of new subjects in the colleges.

Deputy Mayor of Bhaktapur Municipality and Vice Chairperson of the College Management Committee, Ar. Rajani Joshi, also addressed the gathering. She discussed the impact of man-made disasters and the lack of practical knowledge among technicians. She underscored the need for practical learning, noting that "In the 12th century, Bhaktapur developed as a well-organized city, and today’s students should similarly be trained in practical skills."

Principal of Khwopa College of Engineering, Er. Sunil Duwal urged participants to critically analyze the festivals through a materialistic philosophy and use the holiday period for self-study. Er. Sujan Maka, Principal of Khwopa Engineering College, encouraged the faculty and staff to study global events and politics, stressing the need for age-appropriate education amidst a decline in interest in engineering studies due to the growing trend of youth migrating abroad after completing Grade 12.

During the festive greeting exchange program Vice Principals Ratna Shova Prajapati and Dr. Subegman Bijukchhen, Administrative Officer Mr. Sanjaya Manandhar, and Store Officer Rajan Jati extended their best wishes for the festive season. The event featured a vibrant cultural segment, including poetry, stories, and musical performances. Dr. Subeg Man Bijukchhen, Er. Amit Sankar Ranjit, Er. Sunil Kumar Shrestha, Er. Mukesh Kumar Pokhrel, Er. Raju Miyan, and Mr. Surendra Duwal enriched the atmosphere with heartfelt expressions through their creative works. Department heads and branch heads from both colleges also shared their congratulatory remarks, further enhancing the spirit of celebration. The event was a vibrant celebration that fostered a sense of unity and offered valuable insights into both national and local issues, blending cultural significance with meaningful discourse on the future of education and society in Bhaktapur.