A delegation from Doti district has called on Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to provide a dedicated budget for the operation of Khaptad Engineering Campus. The group, which included leaders from multiple political parties and local representatives, met the Prime Minister at his official residence in Baluwatar on Sunday.
The delegates urged the government to address the lack of infrastructure and funding that has delayed the launch of academic programs at the campus. They stressed that the campus has not been able to start courses due to insufficient budget and basic facilities.
Leaders From Multiple Parties Come Together
The delegation included several prominent figures from the Sudurpaschim Province. Among them were:
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Bir Bahadur Balayar, former minister
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Gauri Oli and Bharat Bahadur Khadka, former Constituent Assembly members
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Chakra Malla, Province Assembly member
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Laxman Bahadur Singh, Chief of the District Coordination Committee
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Baji Singh Khadka, Mayor of Dipayal Silgadhi Municipality
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Lokendra Bahadur Shahi, Chair of KI Singh Rural Municipality
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Narendra Bahadur Singh, District President of Nepali Congress
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Manju Malasi, District Chair of CPN (UML)
The delegation represented both ruling and opposition parties. Their united voice highlighted the urgency of starting academic operations at the campus.
PM Oli Pledges Support for Development in Doti
Responding to the delegation, Prime Minister Oli acknowledged the importance of developing education in remote districts like Doti. He assured that the upcoming budget would include funds for Khaptad Engineering Campus.
“We are aware of Doti’s developmental needs. The next budget will be balanced and will focus on areas that have been left behind,” Oli said.
He also pointed out that building student hostels would help those coming from far-flung rural areas. Hostels would provide safe housing for students who otherwise have to travel long distances to attend classes.
Senior Leaders Attend the Meeting
The meeting was also attended by:
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Ishwar Pokharel, Senior Vice Chair of UML
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Ramresh Lekhak, Home Minister
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Other central leaders from the ruling party
The presence of top political figures added weight to the delegation’s request and showed high-level interest in the matter.
Why Khaptad Engineering Campus Matters
Khaptad Engineering Campus is a key educational project for Sudurpaschim Province. Once operational, it will be the first institution in the region to offer technical education in engineering. Locals believe the campus can:
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Reduce the need for students to migrate to cities for higher education
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Boost technical skills among youth
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Support regional development and job creation
Despite being announced years ago, the campus has not yet begun classes. Locals blame the lack of budget and poor infrastructure for the delay.
A Call for Action from the People
Local communities, especially students and parents, have long awaited the campus’s full operation. Several protests and petitions have already taken place in past years, demanding immediate action.
The recent move by a united political delegation may finally push the government to act. Education experts and civil society members also support the demand, saying that technical education is key to the region’s future.
Looking Ahead: What Comes Next?
With the Prime Minister’s assurance, hopes are high that the upcoming national budget will include allocations for the campus. If funding is secured, the construction of classrooms, labs, and hostels could begin soon.
Stakeholders have urged the government to prioritize long-term planning, ensuring that the campus does not face similar issues in the future.
