Renovation and Reconstruction of Univers

Renovation and reconstruction of universities
The first and foremost responsibility of a university is to meet the needs of society
Sanjay N Khanal
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niversities can be characterized in terms of three philosophical missions. British universities and their derivatives focus on the pursuit of truth, the development of
intellectual capabilities and an atmosphere of profound academic freedom. Humboldt’s university focuses on research and free exploration of truth, and their application.
The Wisconsin model is based on service to society. Present-day universities, particularly in the developing world, should embrace all these concepts in their development
and function. Major challenges to this objective include the brain drain, lack of funds, lack of tradition, and instability.
In addition to producing skilled professionals, universities should focus their academic programme and research Society’s progress depends largely on the initiatives on
the needs of their own societies, advancing science exploration and application of ideas. Worldand technology as part of the national developmental strategy wide,
universities are the chief sources of at the same time as they conserve and promote their cultural and traditional heritages. Respected faculty, international stu- these
ideas. Lagging development is inevident body, research of regional and global significance, service tably linked to poorly developed academic to the national
development agenda: these are the cornerstones of a great university. A huge volume of resources, strong com- institutions. The problem is not just lack of mitment and
clear policies are required to mold and maintain adequate resources. Universities must be high academic standards. A university should foster an exchange committed
to the free exchange of ideas, of ideas at all levels and incorporate a wide range of disciplines.
Autonomy, both academic and administrative, is an- tolerance of dissenting thought, incorporaother core feature of the university. Freedom from governtion of the
widest possible range of disciment and other social institutions will generate effective performance. Self-governance could be ensured by outstanding plines, and a
dedication to both personal performance, regular evaluations, and upgrading of standards. growth and national service. Decentralized and transparent decision-making
generates trust in the university and facilitates development of functions suitable to local needs. Coordination among different schools, departments and colleges is needed
to achieve the goals of the university. In the developing countries, this might be a difficult proposition. However, appropriate governing laws and financial freedom may
help improve the situations. Institutions such as university grant commissions and academies may serve as buffer or lubricating mechanisms. Accreditation associations,
academic or professional societies and other types of associations could be additional mechanisms to monitor and maintain academic standards and academic autonomy.
Allocation of development funds and scholarships from the government and international organizations will help strengthen the capacities of the universities.
Tolerance of critical thinking is essential. There should be no discriminations on any basis including differ-
ences of thinking and doctrines to pursue truth among and between academic and administrative professionals along with the students. The freedom to the faculty to
conduct research, to teach and to publish promotes and ensures the quality of the individual institution and that of the system as a whole. Academic activities conducted in
an easy, free and open environment are invariably seen to produce better results. However, we must not forget that excessive freedom may lead to the breakdown of
discipline and order.
Development of an international standard university is a long-term process achieved through a strategic plan. Equally important is the understanding of the societies about
its nature and functions. Students, faculty, and staff as well as government officials and citizens share equal responsibility. It is high time that we all focus our energy on
this endeavor.
Sanjay N Khanal is an associate professor at Department of Biological Sciences and Environmental Science, Kathmandu University, Dhulikhel, Kavre, Nepal.
E-m ail: [email protected]

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