Khwopa College of Engineering, operated by Bhaktapur Municipality, organized a Scholarship Distribution Program on Friday, 27th Asar 2082, awarding a total of Rs. 28 lakh 64 thousand in scholarships to students from the second, third, and fourth years of its undergraduate program.

The scholarships were distributed by the Chairman of the College Management Committee and Mayor of Bhaktapur Municipality, Mr. Sunil Prajapati, who congratulated the recipients and emphasized the municipality’s commitment to supporting higher education. Speaking at the event, Mayor Prajapati highlighted that colleges run by Bhaktapur Municipality collectively provide scholarships worth Rs. 42.5 million annually. He also noted that the municipality offers educational loans at concessional rates to further assist students in pursuing their academic goals. Bhaktapur Municipality has established and operates seven colleges across various disciplines to produce qualified and capable citizens for the nation. Emphasizing that the country needs a new generation of thinkers, he remarked that although the future rests in the hands of the youth, the growing trend of skilled Nepali citizens migrating abroad is hindering the country’s development prospects. He also pointed out that government policies have played a significant role in encouraging this migration of young talent.

Stating that while there may be momentary happiness abroad, he emphasized that true self-satisfaction cannot be achieved there; instead, one should pursue higher education abroad and return to serve one’s own country.

In another context, Chief Prajapati expressed skepticism about the government’s plan, announced in the fiscal year 2082/83 budget, to achieve self-sufficiency in rice and pulses within two years, stating that the plan lacks a factual basis. He emphasized that the government should prioritize realistic, fact-based strategies rather than implementing attractive policies aimed at short-term popularity. Highlighting that the country which was a rice exporter 30 years ago now has to import it, he stressed the need to ensure the availability of essential fertilizers, establish domestic chemical fertilizer factories, and provide farmers with training in modern agricultural production techniques.

“The government should move forward with plans based on facts rather than implementing attractive policies and programs for cheap popularity,” said Chief Prajapati. Citing an example from history, he noted that Chinese scientist Yuan Longping, credited with developing the first hybrid rice varieties in the 1970s, played a pivotal role in lifting millions of people out of hunger and poverty.

Discussing the insufficient budget allocation for health insurance, he pointed out that hospitals across the country are still owed a total of 26 billion rupees under the health insurance program for this fiscal year.

Chief Prajapati remarked, “If we want to drink clean water, the reservoir must be clean,” highlighting the importance of integrity at the source. He noted that the error regarding the "cooling period" is a serious concern, especially since parliament is responsible for making laws. Addressing recent media reports about technical engineers implicated in corruption cases, he advised that rather than seeking quick wealth through unethical means, professionals should dedicate themselves to serving the country and society.

Chairman of Ward No. 9 and Coordinator of the Scholarship Recommendation Committee, Mr. Rabindra Jyakhwo, congratulated the scholarship recipients and emphasized that Khwopa College of Engineering and other colleges run by Bhaktapur Municipality are non-profit government institutions funded by local taxes. Highlighting their role as trusted colleges for students and parents, he explained that these colleges award scholarships to financially disadvantaged and academically talented students. He encouraged the students to dedicate their knowledge and efforts to serving the country and its people.

At the program, College Principal Er. Sunil Duwal highlighted that colleges run by Bhaktapur Municipality provide scholarships to financially needy and talented students to prevent financial barriers from affecting their education. He urged students to use the scholarship funds wisely, citing examples of Khwopa alumni who uphold high ethics and honesty in their professional lives. The Head of the Accounts Section, Mr. Kaji Bahadur Pancha, also addressed the gathering. During the event, a total of 59 students from the second, third, and fourth years received scholarships amounting to Rs. 28,64,658, distributed by the chief guest.