Khwopa College of Engineering (KhCE) organized a Public Hearing Program on 25th Baisakh, 2082, to share information regarding the expenditure of the grant amount received under the “Community Campus Quality Enhancement Program” for fiscal year 2081/082 from the Bagmati Province, Directorate of Education Development, Hetauda.

The program was chaired by Mr. Sunil Prajapati, Chairperson of the College Management Committee and Mayor of Bhaktapur Municipality. He emphasized that Bhaktapur has set an example by executing heritage conservation projects through the Consumer Committees rather than contractors. He expressed concerns over national-level contract-based constructions, citing the mishandling in the reconstruction of the Pashupati Temple at Bhaktapur Durbar Square under contract. He stated that cultural heritage should be reconstructed through local consumers, citing successful examples like Nyatapola Temple, Bhairabnath Temple, and Lakshmi Narasingha Temple.

Highlighting the importance of public ownership and transparency, he announced that a book documenting the reconstruction of the Lakshmi Narasingha Temple, including financial details and public contributions, would be published soon. He welcomed constructive criticism and encouraged citizens to support genuine development efforts. He also criticized outdated thinking regarding university approvals, urging progressiveness in academic and developmental thought.

Speaking on broader development, Mr. Prajapati stressed that proper development is achieved only when education, health, sanitation, agriculture, and other sectors are advanced collectively. He encouraged self-reliance, especially at the local level, pointing out that awareness-driven initiatives have led to notable progress in Bhaktapur.

Mr. Krishna Prasad Koju, a member of the College Management Committee and Ward Chairperson of Bhaktapur-8, praised the college’s transparency and growing reputation nationwide. He stated that public hearings are important platforms for informing and engaging stakeholders.

Presenting the expenditure details, College Principal Er. Sunil Duwal informed us that two interactive smart boards were procured and installed at the college under the allocated grant per the Public Procurement Act 2063 and Regulation 2064. Of the Rs. 5,00,000 grants, Rs. 5,95,510 was expended on the purchase, with the remaining Rs. 95,510 covered by the college.

Mr. Sanjaya Manandhar, Head of the Administration Section, also addressed the gathering. College management committee members, local public representatives, faculty, staff, students, and guardians participated in the event.

The program concluded with a commitment to maintain transparency, accountability, and public involvement in institutional development activities.