TU in turmoil as protest, vandalism become common sights

KATHMANDU, Aug 20: Once considered the finest academic institution in the country, where research and higher education inspired generations of academics and students, Tribhuvan University is now plagued by politics, mismanagement, and a lack of academic discipline. Student protests, sit-ins, violence, and physical assaults have become routine occurrences. Adding to this woe are appointments of vice chancellors based on party quota and affiliations rather than merit. Each new VC appointment is accompanied by protests from student wings belonging to the opposition political groups. These student unions present long lists of demands, which the university is often not in a position to fulfill. Student antics have adversely affected the academic calendar and environment of the nation’s oldest university.