Transcript Nepal - INIT

The Status of Science and
Technology in Nepal
Deba Bahadur khadka
Central Department of Chemistry,
Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur,
Kathmandu, Nepal.
e-mail: [email protected]
Nepal: Location
Turkmenistan
Afghanistan
Iran
China
Pakistan
Nepal
Bhutan
Bangladesh
India
Oman
Myanmar
Laos
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0
0
65
100
Area:
147,181 km2
Length: ~850 km EW
Width: ~200 km NS
Altitude:~ 60-8848 m
130
200
260
Thailand
Cambodia
400 Kilometers
Kilometers
Sri Lanka
Malaysia
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MOUNT EVEREST
The peak of Mount Everest behind the Nuptse-Lhotse ridge.
The world's highest mountain straddles the border between Nepal and
Tibet. Mount Everest is known by the Nepalis as Sagarmatha ("Head of the
Sky") and by the Sherpas as Chomolungma ('Mother Goddess of the
World').
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Building of Central Department of
ChemistryTribhuvanUniversity
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Dr. Vinay Kumar Jha, Dr. Sushika Mulmi, Dr. Kshama Parajuli, Ms. Kalpana Thapa; Second row from left: Dr. Surya Ka
Kalauni, Mr. Khagendra Prasad Bohara, Prof. Pooran Prasad Shrestha, Dr. Paras Nath Yadav, Dr. Megh Raj Pokhrel,
Prof. Tulsi Prasad Pathak, Prof. Shiva Prasad Dhoubhadel, Mr. Santosh Khanal, Dr. Kedar Nath Ghimire, Dr. Rameshwar A
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Abstract
Science and technology has been central in the progress made
to date in the light against poverty and in stimulating
economic growth. The accelerating rate of progress in science
and technology creates both opportunities and significant
risks for developing countries like Nepal. The state of art of
science and technology is relatively new, but is enough adult
of having 50 yrs old. Several policies and its foundation
started lately in around 1950 after the inception of Tribhuvan
University, where at present thirteen Central Departments
incorporating different domains of sciences are into operation.
The main R and D works have been initiated at Tribhuvan
University and in some governmental organizations like NAST,
NARC etc. This presentation highlights incorporating scientific
activities in the aforementioned institutions related to science and
technology.
Introduction
Nepal at a Glance
Landlocked country, situated between China to the north and
India to the east, west and south
About 80 percent populations involved in agriculture, Life
expectancy 67 years, Hospital-105
Literacy rate – 65.9%, Total population - 26.5 million,
Population growth rate-1.35%, University- seven,
Tribhuvan University (TU), Campus TU-60, Community
campus-300, Private (TU affiliated)-609.
Traditional Technologies
Architecture and civil engineering: often blended with
art and culture mostly temples, pagodas and stupas.
Crafting: religious artifacts, images and statues of
bronze, copper or gold found in the temples.
Food technology: brewing beers, wine and hard
liquor, preserving meats, fruits and vegetables.
Textile manufacture using spinning and weaving
devices such as handlooms.
Traditional method of paper manufacture.
Modern science and technology institutions began
after 1951. Until then relied almost entirely upon its
indigenous technology for development.
A Short History of Science in Nepal and
Institutions / Policy / Laws:
Chemistry http://www.cdctu.edu.np 1965 A. D
Physics
Microbiology
Biotechnology
1965 A. D
1990 A. D
2008 A. D
Environmental Science
Botany
Zoology
Geology
1965 A. D
1966 A. D
1967 A. D
 Hydrology Meteorology
Mathematics
Statistics
Computer Science and IT
1959 A. D
1972 A. D
Contd…….
Chemical, biological and physical sciences are regarded as heart of
all the scientific disciplines.
In this context, the history of science education in our country is
relatively new.
The teaching of science in Nepal commenced in 1919 in Tri-Chandra
College, with the introduction of Intermediate of Science (I. Sc.)
program, which was then upgraded to Bachelor of Science (B. Sc.) level
in 1948.
Tribhuvan University (TU) named after the late king Tribhuvan, was
established by promulgating the Tribhuvan University Act in July 14,
1959.
Master’s Degree in science was started only from November 28, 1965
initially at Tri-Chandra College with the introduction of a program in
chemistry and physics.
This historical step also pioneered the introduction of research
Institutes of Medicine, Engineering, Forestry, Agriculture,
Tribhuvan University, 1973
The Sixth Five Year Plan (1980-1985) link S&T activities with
economic development
National Council of Science and Technology (NCST), 1976
(now not available)
Research Centre for Applied Science and Technology
(RECAST), 1977
Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), 1982
Ministry of Science and Technology, 1996
Educational Sectors:
Kathmandu University, Purbanchal University,
Pokhara University etc, B.P. Koirala Institute of Health
Science,National Academy of Medical Sciences, Bir Hospital
Government Sectors:
Department of Plant Resources, 1957
Department of Geology and Mines, 1958
Department of Forest Survey and Research, 1963
Department of Irrigation, Hydrology and Meteorology, 1967;
Food Research Lab, 1973
Department of Soil Conservation, 1974
National Bureau of Standard and Metrology, 1976
Department of Wild Life Conservation
Department of Drug Administration, 1976
National Agriculture Research Centre, 1991
National Development Plan:
First Development Plan of Nepal , 1956
National Science and Technology Policy, 1989
Industrial Enterprise Act and Industrial Policy, 1992
Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act, 1992
National Policy on Technical Education and Vocational
Education, 1999. Forestry Act, Agriculture Act
Information Technology Policy, 2002. Science and Technology
Policy, 2005.
National Nuclear policy, 2007 (Revised 2011).
National Space technology, Nuclear Technology Centre,
Biotechnology, and Nanotechnology Policy
(Forthcoming)
Tenth Five Year Plan (2002-2007) promulgated with
core objective of poverty alleviation envisages the
following strategy in S & T sectors:
1. To mobilize natural resources and infrastructure to the fullest extent
and to establish new structures/institutions in the field of S & T when
needed.
2. To transfer, adapt and utilize foreign technologies as per national
need involving private sectors as well.
3. To establish a working system of competitiveness in R & D activities
among scientists, scientific communities and scientific institutions
4. To support economic and social development of common people by
sustainable use of resources through development of knowledge and skill
in the field of S & T.
5. To encourage universities, research institutes and scientists to become
more involved in research activities and to produce high class manpower
in S & T by providing S & T special place in university curriculum
Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology:
Established on May 15, 1996 and renamed Ministry
of Science, Technology and Environment (MOSTE).
Objectives:
Promote environmentally sustainable economic development of
the country
 Preserve natural and cultural environment and protect life
supporting system (i.e. air, water and soil)
 Identify a new technology and contribute to achieving the national
objectives regarding poverty alleviation by developing appropriate
and new technology through the research.
 Develop and promote traditional and indigenous technologies.

Contd…..
Functions:
Formulation and implementation of policies, plans and
programs.
Liaison and coordination with national and international
organizations.
Pollution control, environmental conservation and
balance.
Exploration and research in the field of science and
technology.
Promotion of alternative energy
Study, research and forecasting on hydrology and
meteorology
Development and expansion of information technology
Nepal Academy of Science and Technology:
Established on December 1982 by a Royal Charter,
the Parliament in 1992 promulgated the Act and earlier
known as Royal Nepal Academy of Science and Technology.
Objectives:
Advancement of science and technology for all
round development of the nation.
Preservation and further modernization of
indigenous technologies.
Promotion of research in science and technology.
Identification and facilitation of appropriate
technology transfer.
Contd…..
Functions:
Undertake and promote studies and research in priority areas
Advise the government on formulation of technology transfer
policy and its implementation
Implement S&T programs in collaboration with national and
international organizations
Organize seminars and conferences on S&T topics and help facilitate
S&T publications, establish and strengthen linkages
with regional and international institutions in order to
promote mutual cooperation, Give recognition to outstanding
individual and institutional contribution for development, promotion
and application of S&T,
Increase public awareness of the importance and usefulness of S&T as well as to create
conditions conducive of S&T application,
Contd…..
Activities of the NAST:
Biotechnology
Natural products
Environment
Alternate energy
High altitude science and technology
Science and technology policy.
S&T Promotional activities:
 Science popularization programs
 Science Exhibition: Conducted in remote areas
 Radio Programs: Weekly program on Radio Nepal
 Televisions Programs: Weekly program
 Quiz Contests: on-the spot quiz contest for high school students
 Meet your scientist interaction program
 School science programs
 Publication of science magazines and journals
Research grants and scholarships Awards
Travel grants and regular support to professional societies.
S&T publication
Research Centre for Applied Science and Technolgy
Vision
By 2018, RECAST will be valued, developed and managed as
a Centre of Excellence for basic and applied science and
innovation technology for the essential contribution of human
well being. It will be managed as a prosperous, progressive
and dynamic centre
Objectives
1. To undertake research in identification, development,
conservation, utilization and dissemination of indigenous
technology
2. To identify exogenous technologies appropriate to Nepal
and explore their technical aspects on technology transfer
and adaptation and
Contd…….
3. To undertake research work on basic and applied.
Activities of the RECAST:
RECAST has been conducting research and development activities on the
following areas:
 Energy, environment and climate change
 Sustainable livelihoods, biotechnology and food technology and life
science
 Ecosystem and biodiversity conservation
 Natural resource product development
 Traditional knowledge and indigenous technology
 Technical services
 Mechanical workshop service
 Instrumentation service
 Out research: Extension, adaptation and dissemination of appropriate
technology
 Documentation unit
 Information technology and national innovation system
Science and Technology Policy
Vision
To build developed, dynamic and prosperous state by
raising the living standards through the appropriate
development and use of science and technology.
Objectives
Enhance national capacity through the appropriate
development and use of knowledge , skill and efficiency
in the field of science and technology.
Assist in the poverty reduction activities by utilizing natural means and
resources through the use of science and technology.
To elevate the country to a competitive position through the optimum
development of science and technology.
Contd….
Policies:
To use science and technology as a powerful means to
increase production and productivity of the country.
To create an environment for the maximum utilization of
knowledge and skill of science and technology available
in regional and international arena by promoting mutual
cooperation with the bilateral, multilateral, regional and
international organizations.
To promote participation of private sector in the
development
of science and technology.
To develop and mobilize skilled human resources .
To extend the development of technology to the rural levels.
To create a conducive environment to maintain high
morale of the scientist and technologists and minimize the
brain drain.
Contd….
S & T strategies mentioned in the Tenth Five Year Plan.
Implementing agencies need to be identified.
A nation's development and prosperity to a large extent are
judged by the status of S & T of that country .
A scientifically unsophisticated society means less
economic development in all sectors
Sweden (4.27%of GDP), Japan ( 3.12% of GDP), USA
(2.65%of GDP), Germany (2.55%of GDP) spend on
R&D and are in the highest priority of development .
Nepal (0.35% of GDP) remains in lowest priority of
development
Contd….
Lack of coordination and cooperation between science and technology
organisations
Gaps between policies and practices and between planning and
performances
Lack of integrated long term master plan for the development of science
and technology , We lack an institution to fund research organizations
and research projects
Some sort of National Science Foundation
Formulates what type of research the country needs in line
with national S & T policy , Sets priority in research
Identifies the relevant institutions
Advertise for the submission of research proposals
Monitors the research, Makes funds available for research
Foundation extends hands to government, business
communities and private endowments to generate resources
for doing useful research
Missing Points:
Institutions are not identified silent on extenditureon R and D
( at least 1% of GDP)
Not much about young scientists coordination of science related
Organizations National Innovation System
– institutions that contribute to the creation, diffusion and use of
new economically useful knowledge and the linkages and synergies
between the institutions
– institutes include universities, research centers, Government ,
financial and industrial houses and involves technical, commercial,
legal, developmental, social , financial, and regulatory mechanisms
– R and D, developments of products, commercialization and
Marketing, to spur innovation
– this network is the foundation of National Innovation System
Contd…..
Teaching institutions play key role in producing well qualified
Manpower
Our graduates are internationally sellable
Some faculty members doing good piece of research work published
in journal of international repute
Research infrastructure of Tribhuvan University profusely upgraded,
thanks to a World Bank assistance
Ph. D. program is weak. Without a sound Ph.D. program, research
can not be sustained. Programs designed to enhance teacher's
ability, motivation and confidence lacking
A few Ph. D. scholarships for teachers are available.
Some talented teachers go abroad for Ph. D., but chances of return
and serve the country is less.
They can not quench the thirst of doing innovative research due to
lack of research infrastructure, Importance of University research.
Scientific culture:
Devotion to the scientific work, Openness, Transparency in their work
Sharing of knowledge and expertise with others
Nonhierarchical system of working
Science and Society:
In addition to enrichment of state of knowledge, fruits of R & D should
also reach common people
Technology as knowledge of how to fulfill human purposes in a
specifiable and reproducible way
The means of producing, distributing, installing, maintaining and
repairing the equipment
The ongoing social preparation and end-use training required for the
equipment to be used effectively
Institutions and mechanism for financing end-users,
distributors, local manufactures and others.
The Millennium
Development Goals
cannot be achieved
without a focused
policy for science,
technology and
innovation
Identify needs
of the poor
Context
Government
Policies
Technology
Poverty
reduction
Economic
growth
New
Technologies
The framework identifies the factors that influence
poverty reduction.
Conclusions
The state of art of science and technology is
relatively new, but is enough adult of having
50 yrs old. Several policies and its foundation
started lately in around 1950 after the
inception of Tribhuvan University, where at
present thirteen Central Departments
incorporating different domains of sciences
are into operation. The main R and D works
have been initiated at Tribhuvan University
and in some governmental organizations like
NAST, RECAST etc.
In order to channelize R &D activities in line
with national policies, Nepal. Science and
Technology Foundation must be created for
attracting and disseminating funds for doing S
& T activities. National Research Laboratories
in different area of S & T should gradually be
established.
Science education needs qualitative
improvement. Ph.D. and Master programs
should be strengthened. In order to utilize
young scientists in creative activities and also to
prevent brain drain, a scheme of pool scientists
in which they work in assigned S & T organizations for a
fixed period of time during which they are expected to find
tenured position of their choice, needs to be established. A
mechanism of involving business people and entrepreneurs
in supporting R & D activities should be established.
Indigenous technologies need to be strengthened and
modified, if necessary, to meet the country’s demands.
Imported technologies should be made country suitable
through adaptive research.
Nepal looks forward to have cooperation among
international science and technology centers for the
establishment of various science centre and for the
development of the human resources S & T sector through
the training/workshops/seminars & collaborative
research.
Acknowledgements
Prof. Dr. Mohan B. Gewali, Central Department of Chemistry, TU;
Prof. Dr. Kedar Nath Ghimire, Central Department of Chemistry, TU;
Mr. Dilli Raj Joshi, NAST and Prof. Dr. Tajammul Hussain, COMSATS
Thank you